Important: This information is for educational purposes only. MississippiDUIHelp.com is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. If you are facing DUI charges, consult with a licensed Mississippi attorney.
What to Do When Arrested for DUI in Mississippi
An arrest can be overwhelming. Understanding the process and your rights during this critical time is essential.
� handcuffs What Happens During the Arrest
- 1. You will be informed of the reason for arrest
- 2. Handcuffs will be applied
- 3. Search of your person and vehicle may occur
- 4. Transportation to the station or jail
- 5. Booking process - fingerprints, photo, personal info
📋 Your Rights at Arrest
- • Right to remain silent - Use it; say only your name
- • Right to an attorney - Request one immediately
- • Right to make a phone call - Use it wisely
- • Right to know charges - Ask what you're being charged with
- • Presumption of innocence - You are innocent until proven guilty
🧪 Chemical Tests (Breath, Blood, or Urine)
After a lawful DUI arrest, officers may request chemical tests:
- • Breath test - Measures blood alcohol concentration (BAC)
- • Blood test - More accurate; requires needle
- • Urine test - Less common; detects drug presence
⚠️ Mississippi Implied Consent: Refusing tests can lead to automatic license suspension. The decision to test or refuse has serious legal consequences.
📝 The Booking Process
- • Personal information collection
- • Fingerprinting
- • Photograph (mug shot)
- • Property inventory and storage
- • Medical screening
- • Cell assignment or bond hearing
🔑 Getting Released: Bail and Bond
In Mississippi, DUI is typically a misdemeanor. Options for release include:
- • Own recognizance - Release on promise to appear
- • Cash bond - Pay full amount in cash
- • Property bond - Use property as collateral
- • Bail bond - Use a bail bondsman (typically 10-15%)
Your Next Steps
- • Contact a Mississippi DUI attorney immediately
- • Gather evidence (dashcam footage, witness info)
- • Note dates, times, and officer names
- • Do not discuss your case with anyone but your attorney