Perhaps you and a loved one were just driving home after a fun night out. Your loved one felt fine when they got behind the wheel, but then the police stopped them. Now they are facing DUI charges.
This situation can cause a lot of stress and pressure for your loved one – and you. You may wonder if there is anything you can do to help.
What can you do to help?
One mistake should not define someone’s life. If you want to support a loved one facing DUI charges, it might help to:
- Find legal defense: The most important thing to do when facing DUI charges is to obtain legal guidance. You can search for skilled attorneys in Missouri who have the experience and knowledge it takes to effectively handle DUI cases and protect your loved one’s future.
- Avoid judgment: During this stressful time, it can help to give your loved one non-judgmental emotional support. Lecturing on what they could have done or dwelling on the events of that night may only add to their emotional distress.
- Be present: Allow them to vent if they need to. This is not the right time to further probe about what happened. They need someone who can listen and help them process difficult thoughts, worries and emotions.
- Offer to drive for them: Facing DUI charges can mean more than your loved one dealing with criminal penalties. It can also put their driving privileges at risk. If your schedule allows, you may be able to help them get to work, run errands, attend meetings with their attorney or even court.
Anyone can benefit from a reliable support system – especially if they face trying times. This involves not only an experienced lawyer but also friends and family who can understand the emotional stress they are experiencing.