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You Were Just Arrested for DUI.
Here's What to Do in the Next 72 Hours.

Your DMV hearing deadline may be as short as 7 days from arrest. Miss it and you lose your license automatically, no hearing, no appeal.

Inside the checklist

1

Check your state’s DMV hearing deadline

Some states give you as few as 7 days from arrest. Miss the window and your license is automatically suspended — even before your court date. Deadlines vary by state — verify the timeline in your jurisdiction.

2

Document everything while it's fresh

What happened before the stop. What the officer said. Whether you were read your rights. Your memory fades, write it down now.

3

Know what to ask before you hire an attorney

6 questions that help you find a DUI specialist who’s the right fit. Questions informed by Lawrence Taylor’s DUI defense methodology. Ask these before you sign anything.

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Common questions

What should I do in the first 24 hours after a DUI arrest?
Check your state's DMV hearing deadline immediately — some states give you as few as 7 days from arrest to request a hearing before your license is automatically suspended. Write down everything you remember about the stop, what the officer said, and whether you were read your rights while your memory is still fresh.
Does this checklist work for any state?
The core steps apply in every state, but DMV deadlines and specific procedures vary by jurisdiction. The checklist flags which items require you to verify your local timeline.
Do I need an attorney to use this checklist?
No. This checklist is designed to help you take immediate protective steps regardless of whether you have an attorney yet. It also gives you the questions to ask before you hire one.