What Happens After a DUI Arrest — What You Need to Know

Grant Miller
Oct 2
3 min read

Facing a DUI arrest is a stressful and uncertain time. Knowing what to expect and how to respond can make all the difference in protecting your rights and your future. In this post, we’ll walk through the typical stages following a DUI arrest, what your legal options are, and how having the right DUI attorney Tulsa clients trust can help.

1. The Arrest & Booking

When a law enforcement officer suspects impaired driving, they may initiate a traffic stop. If they believe there’s probable cause (e.g. weaving, speeding, erratic driving), they may conduct field sobriety tests or ask for a breath, blood, or urine sample. If your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) exceeds the legal limit, or if you refuse testing, an arrest may follow.

Importantly, a DUI arrest does not guarantee a conviction—charges must still be filed, and you will have opportunities to challenge evidence. Saller, Ernstberger, & McElroy+1

After arrest, you’ll typically be booked: fingerprints, photos, and paperwork. You may be held until you can post bail, if applicable, or released later with court requirements.

2. Administrative License Hearing & Suspension

In many states, a DUI arrest triggers an administrative license suspension, separate from the criminal case. For example, in Florida, refusing to take a chemical test or blowing over .08 can lead to immediate license suspension, handled by the DMV rather than the criminal court. Musca Law

This means even before the criminal case resolves, your driving privileges may already be at risk. You often have limited time (e.g. 10 days) to request a hearing to contest the administrative suspension. If you don’t act, your license may be suspended automatically.

3. Criminal Proceedings & Court

Simultaneously (or soon after), the prosecutor reviews evidence and determines whether to file formal charges. If charges are filed, you will be arraigned—where you plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest.

At this point, your DUI lawyer Tulsa can mount defenses. Common DUI defenses include:

Illegal or unconstitutional stop by law enforcement
Problems with field sobriety test administration
Inaccurate or improperly maintained breathalyzer devices
Medical conditions that mimic symptoms of intoxication
Rising Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) after driving, meaning you were under the limit when driving, but over the limit when tested Hamp Law+1

Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or negotiate with prosecutors. In some cases, charges may be reduced or dismissed.

4. Penalties, Alternatives & Collateral Consequences

If convicted, penalties vary by state and severity, but often include fines, jail or probation, mandatory alcohol treatment, and license suspension or revocation. Justia+1

Another common penalty is required installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle, which requires you to blow into a breathalyzer before the car will start. Wikipedia

There are also collateral consequences you must consider:

Insurance impact: Your rates may skyrocket or your coverage canceled. Investopedia
Employment / professional license risk: Some jobs or professional boards may take disciplinary action following a DUI. Battlefield Law Group, PLLC
Criminal record: A DUI conviction stays on your record, which may affect future legal matters, housing, or background checks.

5. Why a DUI Attorney Tulsa Matters

Going through this process alone is risky. An experienced DUI Attorney in Tulsa can:

Protect you at your administrative license suspension hearing
Challenge evidence, procedure, or police tactics
Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges
Present character evidence or mitigation to judges
Help restore your driving privileges

At TUL-DUI, our goal is to connect you quickly with a DUI lawyer Tulsa area residents trust so you can begin working on your defense as soon as possible.

Conclusion

A DUI arrest sets in motion both administrative and criminal processes. You’ll face tight deadlines, procedural complexities, and high stakes. Acting quickly and having skilled representation can make the difference between harsh penalties and a more favorable outcome. If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Tulsa or the surrounding areas, don’t wait—contact a DUI attorney today to protect your rights and your future.