If you were arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI), contact an attorney as soon as possible to help build your case and attempt to reduce or remove the charges from your record. If you have already been convicted of a DUI, you may feel as if your life is permanently scarred, and that you will never get back on track. While a DUI is very serious, you have options to rebuild your life after either your sentence or a fine you had to pay, or both. Here are some steps you can take to move your life in a positive direction.
Rehabilitation
If you actually received a DUI conviction with jail time, you may not be a first-time offender. If this is the case, you should determine if you truly have a substance abuse disorder. DUIs are often a symptom of a greater problem, which is a compulsive addiction to either drugs or alcohol, or both. If this sounds true for you, please consider seeking professional help. Rehabilitation options are available in out-patient and in-patient settings.
Professional Help
Perhaps you feel as if you do not need an actual in-patient or out-patient rehabilitation center. If you still feel you struggle with alcohol or drugs, consider visiting a professional therapist, counselor, join an Alcoholics Anonymous group, another recovery program, or visit with a professional who specifically deals with addiction issues.
Ignition Interlock Device
Oftentimes, an ignition interlock device will be mandated by the court for those who are convicted of a DUI. This device requires a driver to prove that he or she had no alcoholic drinks by blowing into it before the car will start. While these devices are only required for a certain period of time, it is interesting that they are associated with a 70% reduction in DUI arrest rates. Consider keeping your ignition interlock device in your car, even after the court mandate is over, as an insurance policy for you and others that you will be safe.
Find New Interests
It may seem silly and trite to say you should find a hobby. However, it has been proven that when people are trying to get their lives back on track, finding a new activity to give them purpose can actually help them heal emotionally more quickly. If you find a hobby that you can do instead of drinking, such as training to run a 5k, it will make you physically and emotionally healthier.
Strong Support Network
Your family and friends should be your support system. If you were surrounded by people who made poor choices in the past, take this time to create a new group of friends who do not drink or do drugs. Find the people who will be your biggest cheerleader and help you on the road to recovery as you get your life back on track.
Contact a DUI Attorney
If you were arrested and charged with a DUI, contact Arja Shah. She is an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Phoenix, AZ who can review your arrest and charge for DUI. She can help you with your case so you can get your life back on track after a DUI. Contact Arja Shah by calling (602) 560-7408 or by sending a message through the firm’s request form today.
