Students of LSU don’t have to search too hard for something fun to do. Whether it’s attending an LSU Tigers football game or partying with friends, the college experience is always in full swing.
Unfortunately, sometimes students get a little carried away and end up behind bars for public drunkenness. Even though this is only a misdemeanor charge, it can leave a stain on your record.
That’s why it’s important to understand your options after getting arrested for public intoxication. If handled correctly, you may be able to have the charge dismissed so you can move on with your life.
Let’s go over what you should do after a public intoxication arrest in Baton Rouge.
Keep Track of Your Paperwork
After you’re arrested, you’ll most likely spend the night in jail and get released the next day. It’s important you remain calm and understand there’s nothing you can do until you get out.
When you’re released, you’ll receive paperwork such as intake forms and discharge information. You’ll also receive a public intoxication fine.
It’s important you keep track of all this information. For an attorney, the details of your arrest are critical. If the officer arrested you unjustly or made procedural mistakes, you might have a chance of having your case dismissed.
Make sure you hold on to everything and provide it to your attorney.
Gather Any Witnesses
If you were having fun after a football game or partying with friends, there were probably many witnesses to your arrest. After you’re released, make sure you make a list of any people who were present.
To get arrested for public intoxication, an officer must feel you’re either making a public disturbance or that you’re a danger to others. If you feel you were arrested unjustly, witnesses can back up your case.
It’s not uncommon for a person to get arrested after only having a few drinks. An officer may assume that because you were at a football game, you must be drunk.
If this is the case, your attorney may use the witnesses to help get the charges dropped.
Contact an Attorney
It’s important you contact an experienced criminal attorney right away. They’ll be able to evaluate your case and guide you through the legal process.
Depending on the circumstances of your case, an attorney may be able to get the charges and fines dismissed. They may also be able to have the arrest expunged from your record. This is important, as an arrest on your record may hinder your ability to get a job in the future.
If there’s no way to avoid getting charged, an attorney can help lessen the punishment. This is very important if your arrest involved additional charges like battery or resisting an officer.
Have You Been Arrested for Public Intoxication in Baton Rouge?
For LSU students, even a minor criminal charge can get in the way of a successful college experience. That’s why it’s important to find the very best legal representation.
If you’ve been arrested for public intoxication, make sure you follow the steps discussed above. Then, contact us for experienced criminal defense in Baton Rouge.
