It is important to know what to do when arrested. First, be completely courteous to the officers. They have difficult jobs and you should respect them. Do not use profanity. Do not show anger. Second, say as little as possible. If pulled over on a highway, you are likely being videotaped and the statements you make can be played to a jury.

Third, if you are pulled over for a DWI, you may be asked to provide a breath sample. If you are certain that you are sober and have not had much or anything to drink, you should provide a sample. If you are not certain, you should not provide a sample. However, your license will be suspsended. A breath sample which indicates blood alcohol level of .08 or greater will likely convince a jury that you are guilty of DWI. It is easier to reach a reasonable plea agreement or try a case to a jury without a .08 breath test, even if jurors learn that the driver turned down the opportunity to provide a sample.

When pulled over, you may be asked for permission to search your vehicle. If there is contraband in the car, you will waive most of your legal defenses if you consent to the search. It would be better for your legal defense for you to decline the search politely. Police will likely find the contraband by other means, but you will preserve legal defenses.

Once you are booked into jail, contact a family member to bond you out. If the bond is large, you should hire an attorney first. An attorney can file a motion to reduce the bond, saving money.

Once out of jail, you must hire an attorney quickly. The attorney needs time to investigate your case and prepare. Waiting until the last moment will compromise your defense. Many judges impose strict deadlines which limit time to investigate and prepare.

Information provided by Tyler, Texas criminal defense attorney Wes Volberding.