Law enforcement personnel can be incredibly intimidating, especially if they believe you are guilty. If you are facing criminal charges, though, it is important to remember you still have certain rights, and a DWI law attorney from MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott, P.C. will defend them. Located in Middletown, NY, this firm has been serving local clients for more than 130 years in various areas of practice, including elder and corporate law. They are well versed in criminal proceedings, and they will ensure the prosecutor does not violate your rights following an arrest. 

Most people are surprised to learn the police do not necessarily have to inform DWI suspects of their Miranda rights. The warning is designed to protect suspects from incriminating themselves during an interrogation. If the police fail to deliver the warning when taking a suspect into custody, any evidence they gather during a subsequent line of questioning may not be admissible in court.

When it comes to drunk driving cases, though, police may have already gathered all the evidence they need to charge you. For example, if they witnessed you swerving and then conducted a breathalyzer test and you failed, they may not necessarily plan on interrogating you back at the station. Even if they do not give the Miranda warning, any evidence they gathered during the traffic stop may still be admissible.

Just because an officer does not read your rights does not mean they don’t apply under DWI law, though. Even drunk driving suspects have the right to remain silent and to talk to an attorney before speaking with the police. You also have the right to have an attorney with you during any questioning. If covering legal fees is out of your financial reach, the court will appoint a public defender to represent you.

Although public defenders can be incredibly passionate and skilled professionals, they only have a limited amount of time to spend with each client because they are so overworked. If you are facing charges for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, hiring your own DWI law attorney from MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott, P.C. will ensure you have access to all the resources needed to devise a strong defense. To learn more about the firm’s broad range of practice areas, visit their website, or call (845) 343-3000 to schedule a consultation in Middletown, NY.