Many people struggle to get their lives back on track after a DUI conviction. Unfortunately, these offenses can stay on your criminal record for a long time. Individuals convicted of DUI may also have to worry about paying higher insurance premiums and attending alcohol diversion classes. While a conviction might affect your present situation, there are ways to move toward a brighter future. Ro learn more about the consequences of a DUI conviction, consider scheduling a consultation with Driving Defense Law by calling (757) 929-0335.
Steps To Take After a DUI Conviction
Driving under the influence of a controlled substance is a serious offense. If you have been convicted, you are already aware of some of the consequences of having a DUI conviction on your record. While many people may feel a sense of hopelessness after their DUI sentencing, there are a few ways to move forward. Here are five steps to take after a conviction:
Accept Full Responsibility
While it can be tempting to shift the blame for a conviction to others, a driver who receives a DUI conviction often benefits from reflecting on the circumstances that led up to their arrest and conviction. Some individuals habitually abuse alcohol to cope with life issues, while others have developed a bad habit of engaging in reckless behavior.
Whatever the reason, now is the time to understand the consequences of your actions and acknowledge the harm caused. Individuals convicted of DUI can use this time to take responsibility by owning up to the mistake without making excuses and making changes in their day to day habits to prevent any similar circumstances from arising in the future. Even an individual who got a conviction for their first incident may wish to evaluate the steps that led to a dangerous out of character decision.
Fulfill All Legal Obligations
After a DUI conviction, a driver will need to meet any legal obligations imposed by the court. Typical examples include:
- Attending all court-ordered appearances
- Complying with the requirements
- Completing alcohol education programs and counseling
- Paying fines
- Performing community service
Failing to meet these requirements could mean more legal issues in the future. While no one can change past mistakes, it is important to commit to fulfilling the obligations those mistakes have incurred.
Get Professional Advice
Often, conviction occurs because there is an overwhelming amount of evidence against you. While this might not be the best outcome, individuals who were represented by an attorney in their DUI case may still want to consult with their DUI lawyer to develop a plan for the future. These professionals have the resources to help you move past the conviction. They may be able to help you get into a program that can fulfill some of the obligations imposed as part of the DUI sentence, such as a community service program or alcohol education classes.
Focus on Rehabilitation
Mistakes happen. After a conviction, you may want to self-reflect on your past behaviors and actions. If you have an issue with alcohol or substance abuse, make sure to join programs that can help you manage these problems. On the other hand, if drunk driving was the result of a family or life dilemma, then you may want to visit a mental health professional. Whether you join an individual or group counseling session, these outlets can help you find healthier ways to cope with life’s stresses.
Look Towards the Future
Many people find it difficult to move past a conviction. They may feel that the system wronged them. However, holding on to anger about the situation is not healthy. After a conviction, the best way to move forward is typically by setting clear goals and adopting healthier habits. Convicted drivers may benefit from taking this time to develop plans for their personal and professional futures. If the DUI conviction came as the culmination of a pattern of risky behaviors, a supportive network of friends and family who understand one’s commitment to change may prove beneficial in the recovery process
Following these steps can help you get your life back on track after a DUI conviction. If you would like to learn more about other steps to follow, contact the legal team at Driving Defense Law.
What Is the Best Outcome for a DUI?
Since the 1980s, drunk driving laws have been in place to prevent serious, and often deadly accidents, per the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration. For drivers, the “best” outcome in the immediate sense is usually thought to be a complete dismissal of the charges. While dismissals do happen, they are relatively rare, and generally require the court to find a lack of evidence to support the prosecution’s case. Because prosecutors tend not to go to trial for cases they do not think they can win, this is not a common scenario.
Plea Bargains in DUI Cases
Much more often, drivers facing DUI charges will have the opportunity to negotiate the terms of a “plea bargain.” A plea bargain is an arrangement in which the defendant in a case pleads guilty to a lesser violation than the one with which they were originally charged. For DUIs, this may mean that the defendant will agree to specific terms, such as enrolling in an adult education program or performing community service. With that, the person will still have a criminal charge on their record, but they may be able to avoid the most severe penalties they might face if convicted for the original charges.
Repeat DUI Offenders
However, these outcomes usually only occur for first-time offenders. The court tends to be more lenient with sentencing. After the first conviction, the penalties and consequences increase. In turn, that can lead to higher fines, longer jail sentences, and a revocation of driving privileges.
How Do You Forgive Yourself and Get Over the Shame of a DUI?
Many people convicted of DUI feel a deep sense of shame, confronted with a criminal record that documents a time when they put others at risk. While self-reflection is important, so is self-compassion and developing a plan for moving forward, not just on a driving record but mentally and emotionally. Overcoming shame, ironically, often starts with admitting and accepting responsibility for the mistake. Acknowledging the error opens the possibility of self-forgiveness, which for many is most meaningful when accompanied by a plan for ensuring they will not commit the same mistake again.
Those who experience problems moving forward may wish to consider speaking with a counselor or therapist. A trained professional may be able to assist with identifying the underlying issues that are causing this behavior. Forgiveness and acceptance are gradual processes, but small steps add up to a deeper journey.
Can a DUI Cause PTSD?
A DUI incident does not inevitably lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, the emotional and psychological impact of an arrest can cause stress and emotional trauma in some individuals, according to the Mayo Clinic. PTSD is commonly associated with traumatic, life-threatening situations. Some aspects of a DUI arrest or accident, such as the fear, anxiety, or shame associated with the event, may contribute to emotional distress for some people.
PTSD can be influenced by an individual’s resilience, coping mechanisms, and pre-existing mental health conditions. If someone is experiencing distress, anxiety, or symptoms resembling PTSD after a DUI incident, they may want to work with a mental health professional. A thorough evaluation can help individuals suffering from PTSD to find the right support and make a strong recovery.
Reach Out to a Virginia DUI Attorney Today
After a DUI conviction, it can be difficult to put your life back on track. However, with these steps, you can look forward to a healthier and brighter future. If you have questions about your DUI case, please consider scheduling a consultation with Driving Defense Law by calling (757) 929-0335.
