A DUI conviction can leave you questioning and self-reflecting much of your current patterns or behaviors. It is common for people to wonder if their actions were the result of a drinking problem. Some may even choose to no longer drink alcohol as a result of the DUI charge they received. Many people may wonder if abstaining from drinking can help the outcome of their DUI case. An attorney can certainly be helpful in reviewing your options and representing you throughout the legal process. They will be able to help determine whether sobering up or voluntarily going to treatment can have an impact on your case. Making the decision to give up drinking is a personal one, however, there are a number of options that can aid you in doing so.
Signs of a Substance Abuse Problem
It can be hard to determine whether you have a substance problem. However, obtaining a DUI may cause you to question your current state of sobriety. Problems with alcohol or drugs can sometimes be difficult to identify yourself. Someone who is actively using may have a hard time indicating that they need help. This is especially true after years spent justifying their level of use. Alcoholism can develop over time and can range in severity. Here are common signs that drinking may be a problem to take seriously:
- You experience symptoms of withdrawal if you haven’t had a drink. Withdrawal symptoms can include: tremors, nausea, sweating, vomiting and a racing heart.
- Being secretive about how much you actually drink or drinking alone
- A serious sign that there is a problem can be the need to drink first thing in the morning in order to function normally.
- Not being able to stop drinking, regardless of the negative impact it could be having on your life, job, relationship and children.
- Experiencing cravings for alcohol
- Prioritizing alcohol above all else
It may be important to speak with a substance abuse counselor if you think that you may have a problem. In some cases, your DUI attorney may even be able to help point you towards providers who may be able to help you.
Can Treatment be Court Ordered?
Suffering from alcoholism can be a lifelong disease. Recovery can take years to achieve. For many sufferers, contending with addiction can be a challenge they must face every day of their lives. If you have obtained a DUI you will want to know if treatment will be required through the courts and whether attending treatment on your own will have a positive impact on the outcome of your case. The truth is that it is all too common for the courts to order treatment for alcohol or drug use. The idea behind this being that treatment can help shift someone’s life in a positive direction. There are a number of variables that the courts will look at to determine if enduring treatment is right for you, including:
- Whether this is your first DUI
- Your BAC at the time of your arrest
- If you have gone to treatment in the past
- Whether the DUI resulted in a car accident that harmed or killed another person
If you have recently been pulled over for a DUI, it will be vital that you contact an attorney as soon as possible. With their help, they will be able to help determine if seeking treatment can benefit your case. They can also discuss with you your legal options and help decipher whether the judge will order treatment. With the help of a DWI lawyer Salt Lake City, UT trusts, you can endure the process feeling as though you have clear options for the road ahead.
Thank you to our contributors at the law offices of Rasmussen & Miner for the above information.