The days following an arrest for DUI can be overwhelming and frightening, especially for those who have been arrested for the first time. To add more stress to the situation, you may start receiving phone calls and letters from insurance agencies and companies that install the ignition interlock device (IID). Representatives of some of these companies will tell you that you need to immediately purchase an SR22 proof of insurance to file with the DMV and you must immediately install an IID. These statements are false. These companies are preying on recently arrested persons fears and trying to make money. CONTACT our office today if you are receiving these solicitations following your DUI arrest.
You are not required to obtain an SR22 or install an IID following an arrest for DUI. Only upon a court conviction, or adverse finding in the DMV administrative per se hearing, will you be required to file an SR22. This is only required after you apply to have your license reinstated following a suspension. An IID is not required after a first DUI suspension (it is optional). The companies informing you otherwise are providing false and deceptive information.
The other thing that you can expect to see within days following an arrest for DUI is mail from attorneys. Unfortunately, the names and addresses of persons arrested is public record. There are companies that gather this information and make it available to attorneys, insurance companies, and IID installers. The correspondence from attorneys is commonly referred to as "jail mail." You will begin receiving all sorts of flyers and letters within days of your arrest. Some lawyers will offer a "discount" fee, while others will boast of their track record and claimed "success" in DUI cases. Beware of these attorneys offering a "cheap" price. Remember the old adage "you get what you pay for." It is best to find an attorney that concentrates his or her practice on DUI cases. DUI is a niche area of criminal law, with many unique legal and scientific issues. If you are in the Los Angeles area, CONTACT Berglund Law Office, P.C. today for a free and confidential consultation.
