What to Expect After a DUI Arrest in Ohatchee | Kreps Law Firm

Getting arrested for DUI in Ohatchee, Alabama, can be a confusing and stressful ordeal. Many people are uncertain about what happens next, what Ohatchee DUI Attorney rights are, and how to respond to law enforcement and the court system. At Kreps Law Firm, we believe that being informed is the first step in protecting yourself—and we’re here to guide you through the process.

Immediately following a DUI arrest, you will likely be taken to the local police station for booking. This involves fingerprinting, having your photo taken, and possibly being held until bail is posted. You may be issued a court date and a temporary driving permit if your license is being suspended. This is the time to contact an experienced Ohatchee DUI attorney to begin building your defense.

One of the most important steps after your arrest is requesting an administrative hearing with the Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) within 10 days. Failing to do so can result in an automatic suspension of your driver’s license, even before your court case is resolved. Kreps Law Firm can handle this process on your behalf to help protect your driving privileges.

Your first court appearance, known as an arraignment, is where you’ll be formally charged and asked to enter a plea. Whether you plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest, it’s crucial to have a DUI lawyer by your side to advise you. Kreps Law Firm will review your charges, examine the evidence, and begin forming a strategy aimed at reducing or eliminating penalties.

During the investigation phase, your attorney will collect all relevant information—police reports, breathalyzer results, witness statements, dashcam or bodycam footage—and look for inconsistencies or violations of your rights. For example, if the officer did not have probable cause to stop your vehicle, or if proper procedures weren’t followed during sobriety testing, that evidence may be challenged in court.

The penalties for a DUI in Ohatchee can be harsh. Even for a first offense, you may face up to one year in jail, fines up to $2,100, and a 90-day license suspension. For second or third offenses, the consequences are steeper and include mandatory jail time, longer license suspensions, and installation of an ignition interlock device. Kreps Law Firm works to minimize these outcomes through plea deals, alternative sentencing, or case dismissal when possible.

Beyond the legal consequences, a DUI conviction can affect your job, insurance rates, and personal relationships. That’s why it’s so important to take your case seriously from the beginning. Kreps Law Firm has helped hundreds of clients across Calhoun County and throughout Alabama navigate DUI charges with compassion and professionalism.

If you’re facing a DUI charge in Ohatchee, don’t face it alone. Contact Kreps Law Firm today for a consultation and let us begin fighting for your rights and your future.