If you live in Arizona, you are probably aware of the notoriously harsh DUI laws and penalties that are in effect. Most people know that if they are convicted of DUI, they will spend at least one day in jail, maybe more. They might also expect expensive fines and other costs, such as having a breathalyzer installed on your car.
What many people involved in Arizona DUI cases are often unprepared for is the emotional drain that can take place. The stress, nervousness and fear that comes with a DUI conviction can be overwhelming and affect many different aspects of life.
Shame
Studies show that 1 out of every 3 Americans will be involved in a DUI at some point in their lifetime. For most of these people, this will be their first offense, the first and possibly only time they will be arrested and charged with a crime.
There’s an enormous amount of guilt and shame that can accompany a DUI arrest. It doesn’t help that a phone call now must be made to a friend or family member to post bond or for a ride home. Court appearances will follow where crimes will be read out loud in front of a judge and everyone else in the courtroom. This can be very embarrassing and stressful, especially if it’s a first time offense.
Fear
There’s no doubt that a DUI arrest will bring its fair share of fear and anxiety. This fear sets in the moment you see the flashing red and blue lights in your rearview mirror. Being handcuffed and placed in the back seat of a police car can definitely be a scary experience.
In some situations, DUI suspects are taken to a local processing center, while others are taken to the nearest jail where they are booked. For many, this will be their first experience “behind bars” and can trigger a great deal of fear. On top of all of this, fear begins to set in as the offender begins to consider how this DUI arrest might affect their personal life, including jobs and family.
Depression
It’s not uncommon for someone convicted of DUI to experience some depression. In Arizona, there are a number of steps that must be completed before your life gets back to normal. These steps include jail time, paying of fines, having your driver’s license reinstated and dealing with court appearances. It’s easy for all of this to build up and cause major depression over time.
It’s not always easy to see the long-term affects a DUI may have in a person’s life and how long it might take for that person to be able to move on and get over their DUI troubles.
Help From Arizona DUI Attorney Charlie Naegle
Fortunately, there is help. One of the most important benefits of having an Arizona DUI attorney at your side to help you through your DUI ordeal is that he or she can help bear the legal burden the system can place on the accused. Your Arizona DUI attorney can help set your mind at ease and relieve some of the fear you might experience when appearing in court.
When we take on a DUI case at Naegle & Crider Criminal Defense Attorneys, we are on your side and become your strongest ally. Don’t attempt to deal with your Arizona DUI and all of the emotional baggage that can come with it all on your own. Give us a call today and schedule a free consultation. We’ll discuss your options and come up with a game plan because a strong defense matters.