What to Do in the First 24 Hours After a DUI Arrest
Nov. 6, 2025
Facing a DUI arrest in High Point, North Carolina, can be one of the most stressful experiences a person encounters. The uncertainty of what comes next often adds to the pressure of the situation.
During the first 24 hours, every decision can influence how the case develops later. This article outlines the most important steps to take immediately after an arrest for driving under the influence and why these early actions matter.
Rodrick A. Rouse, Attorney at Law, is a dedicated criminal defense attorney representing clients in High Point, NC, and the surrounding areas, including Guilford County, Randolph County, Forsyth County, Alamance County, and Davidson County.
With years of experience handling DUI arrest cases and other criminal matters, the firm focuses on providing clear guidance and support during every step of the legal process. Contact Rodrick A. Rouse, Attorney at Law, today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward addressing your case responsibly.
Stay Calm and Focused After the Arrest
The first and most important step is to stay calm. The minutes and hours following a DUI arrest can be confusing, but panic only makes it harder to think clearly. Law enforcement officers are documenting everything—behavior, statements, and cooperation. Remaining polite and composed helps prevent the situation from escalating.
Even if the individual believes they were wrongly stopped or treated unfairly, it’s better to save those discussions for court. Arguing or becoming confrontational can lead to additional charges or create complications later. Maintaining self-control shows respect for the process and may preserve credibility when the case reaches court.
Once taken into custody, a person should remember their rights, including the right to remain silent. Exercising that right isn’t an admission of guilt—it’s a way to protect oneself until proper legal guidance is available. Contact an experienced attorney at the firm today.
What Happens During Booking
After a DUI arrest, the individual will likely go through a booking process at the local detention center. This involves fingerprinting, taking photographs, and completing administrative documentation. Officers may also request a breath test or another form of chemical testing to determine blood alcohol concentration.
While this process can be uncomfortable or intimidating, cooperation generally allows it to proceed more efficiently. In North Carolina, refusing a chemical test can result in an automatic license suspension. Understanding these consequences before responding is crucial.
Once processed, the person will receive paperwork detailing the arrest. Keeping all documents organized will be important later for building a defense strategy.
Contacting Legal Representation
As soon as possible after a DUI arrest, contacting an attorney familiar with criminal and traffic cases in North Carolina is vital. An attorney at Rodrick A. Rouse, Attorney at Law, who understands how local courts operate, can review the details of the arrest and begin assessing the available evidence.
For someone helping a family member or friend in custody, gathering essential details—such as the detention location, time of arrest, and specific charges—helps the attorney respond quickly. Timely communication allows legal counsel to provide meaningful support early in the process.
Gathering and Preserving Evidence
Within the first 24 hours, it’s wise for the individual to record everything remembered about the events before, during, and after the DUI. Even small details can later prove significant in court.
Key details to document include:
The time and location of the traffic stop
Statements made by the officer and responses given
Whether field sobriety or breath tests were conducted
Any witnesses who may have observed the stop or the person’s behavior beforehand
Recording these details soon after the event helps preserve accuracy. If the vehicle was towed, finding out where it’s stored and collecting any personal belongings promptly is also important. Keeping receipts and towing documents organized adds to the overall record.
Reviewing Paperwork and Next Steps
Before release, the individual will receive documents such as a citation, a court date notice, and possibly a temporary driver’s license if the original was confiscated. Reviewing these documents carefully is essential. Missing a scheduled appearance can result in additional consequences, including a warrant for arrest.
If there’s confusion about what any document means, it should be shown to the attorney for clarification. Taking time to understand these papers early prevents unnecessary complications later.
North Carolina law also provides a limited window to request a hearing regarding any license suspension. Acting quickly helps preserve that opportunity.
Managing the Vehicle and Personal Belongings
After a DUI arrest, the person’s vehicle may be impounded. Locating it as soon as possible helps reduce storage fees. They should contact the law enforcement agency involved or the towing company listed on the paperwork to confirm the vehicle’s location.
When retrieving the vehicle, proper identification and proof of ownership are required. If the driver’s license has been temporarily suspended, a friend or family member with a valid license should drive the vehicle home. It’s best to avoid driving until legal permission has been confirmed.
Reflecting on the Circumstances of the Arrest
Once home, the individual should take time to think through the event objectively. Reflecting on the sequence of events can help identify details worth sharing with their attorney.
Factors such as road or weather conditions, lighting, or the presence of construction zones can all be relevant. It’s also important to note whether the officer explained rights clearly and if any medications or medical conditions could have influenced behavior or test results.
Recording these reflections soon after the DUI arrest helps maintain accuracy and provides the attorney with useful information for case review.
Prioritizing Early Actions
The first 24 hours after a DUI arrest require careful organization and responsible decision-making. Focusing on practical steps helps establish order during a stressful period.
Essential tasks include:
Contacting an attorney to discuss the case and next steps
Reviewing all legal paperwork for accuracy and deadlines
Arranging transportation if the license was suspended
Keeping all receipts and documents related to the arrest
Avoiding public or social media discussions about the case
These actions support clear communication and minimize the risk of additional complications later.
Handling Communication With Law Enforcement
After release, law enforcement or investigators might reach out for follow-up information. Before speaking with anyone, the individual should contact their attorney. Legal counsel can help determine whether responding is appropriate and how to handle further inquiries.
If contacted again about the DUI arrest, keeping detailed notes of any communication—dates, times, and names—is helpful. All documents or messages should be shared with the attorney for review.
It’s important not to discuss the case with anyone else. Even casual conversations can lead to statements that may later be misinterpreted or used against the person in court.
Maintaining Organization and Composure
The stress that follows a DUI arrest can interfere with daily routines. It’s easy to become overwhelmed, but focusing on small, manageable steps helps maintain stability.
Staying organized—keeping track of court dates, attorney meetings, and documents—reduces unnecessary anxiety. Setting reminders and maintaining a calendar can help prevent missed deadlines.
Those facing charges should also take care of their mental and physical health. Managing stress through healthy habits and support from trusted individuals can make a meaningful difference during this time.
Working With an Attorney
Once an attorney has been contacted, they’ll begin reviewing the evidence, including police reports, chemical test results, and any witness statements. The individual should be completely honest about every aspect of the arrest, even details that seem minor or uncomfortable.
Transparency allows the attorney to develop a clear understanding of the situation. Providing accurate information from the start improves the chances of identifying issues with the arrest process or testing procedures.
Patience is also important. Each DUI arrest case is unique, and comparing outcomes to other cases can create false expectations. Focusing on cooperation and communication with legal counsel remains the greatest approach.
Preparing for Court
When the court date arrives, preparation is key. The individual should arrive early, dress appropriately, and follow any instructions provided by the attorney. Respectful behavior in court reflects positively on a person’s character.
Bringing the required documents and understanding what will be discussed during the hearing helps reduce anxiety. A calm and focused demeanor can make a meaningful impression on the judge and others involved in the process.
Even though court proceedings can feel intimidating, preparation and professionalism can make the experience more manageable.
Reflecting on the Experience and Looking Forward
The first 24 hours after a DUI are filled with uncertainty and pressure. Yet, they also present an opportunity to make sound decisions that will influence what comes next. Taking practical steps—such as documenting details, contacting an attorney, and staying organized—can have a lasting positive effect on the outcome.
While it’s natural to feel discouraged, it’s important to remember that an arrest doesn’t define a person’s character or future. By handling the situation responsibly and focusing on the right actions, they can begin to regain control and move forward.
Every DUI presents its own set of challenges, but thoughtful choices made early in the process can make a measurable difference. With proper guidance, discipline, and attention to detail, individuals can address their cases effectively and start focusing on rebuilding their lives.
Rodrick A. Rouse, Attorney at Law, serving High Point, Guilford County, Randolph County, Forsyth County, Alamance County, and Davidson County, offers knowledgeable legal guidance for those facing DUI charges.
Contact An Attorney Today
A DUI arrest in North Carolina can carry serious consequences that affect a person’s driving privileges, record, and future opportunities. Taking the right steps in the first 24 hours, from documenting details to contacting legal counsel, is crucial to addressing the situation responsibly and protecting one’s rights. Contact Rodrick A. Rouse, Attorney at Law today to schedule a consultation and discuss the next steps for your case.