If your loved one is charged with DUI, your first response may certainly be to be caught off guard or disappointed, and feeling upset is only understandable. You might also start to worry about your friend or loved one, as they could get into serious trouble as a result of the DUI charges. When a loved one is charged with DUI, you need to be there for them both physically and emotionally. Here are four things you can do to offer support.
Avoid Passing Judgement
As a support provider, you should avoid passing judgment on the individual who is being investigated for a crime. After all, they may already be experiencing shame or guilt as a result of the situation, and watching others criticize them might make things considerably worse.
DUI charges are not always the result of wrongdoing. Individuals get into such situations when they legally use prescription medication or when they operate a vehicle while fatigued. They may have also simply misjudged their tolerance levels.
Hence, when a loved one gets charged with DUI, you should support them by showing empathy rather than passing judgment.
Understand Your Local DUI Laws
Supporting a loved one who is being investigated for DUI is easier said than done because you might not even know how to handle the issue yourself. The best place to start is by researching the local DUI traffic laws because your loved one is probably under a lot of stress. This means that you can evaluate the situation more objectively than them.
Even a fundamental comprehension of the legal side of things might boost your self-assurance and be of assistance to the offender. You can start by gathering some technical knowledge on the offense, such as the distinction between DUI and DWI, what happens at the DUI stop, and the potential legal ramifications of the offense.
Research on Reform Programs
Depending on the DUI charge, your loved one may have to undergo a mandatory DUI program, which involves a series of educational and counseling sessions targeted at informing them about the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol. This can also help them get their license back if it has been revoked. If they are a first-time offender, they may have to attend a 12-hour course as part of a first offender program. A DUI program will last a few months for those in a multiple offender program, and follows a similar format as the “wet reckless” program.
Offer to be a Designated Driver
After being accused of DUI, getting back on the road is difficult because your loved one’s license is revoked, and they are unable to drive. Even when the suspension period has ended, they might be wary of driving again.
You can help your loved one by offering to drive them around. Take them to appointments, grocery store visits, and wherever else they need to go. A modest gesture like offering to be a designated driver can go a long way in assisting someone who is struggling with the fallout from a DUI charge.
Whether it’s practical or emotional aid, your loved one could always use the additional support in getting them through this trying time!
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