Important Information

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In the event of an accident, arrest, or any other situation giving rise to the need for legal representation, it is critical to promptly secure the services of an attorney that can advise and assist you from the very beginning.  The attorneys at Farling Hecht & Davis, LLP are always available for a free consultation during business, as well as after hours. The following information will hopefully assist you in the event you are faced with a crisis necessitating the services of an attorney.

In the event of an ACCIDENT:

Exchange all relevant identifying information and insurance information with all involved parties.

Try and notify the police from the scene and have them respond and prepare a report.

If injuries result, bring those to the attention of any officers that respond, and request medical care if necessary.

Obtain identifying information from all available witnesses willing to cooperate, and bring such information to the attention of any officers that respond.

If possible, take photos of any evidence at the scene such as skid marks, debris strewn about the roadway, and the damage to the involved vehicles. Its a good idea to keep a disposable camera in your glovebox for such occasions.

Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible, and if you are going to retain the services of an attorney, refrain from making any detailed statements to any insurance representative until your attorney can be present for the statement. If contacted by a representative of the responsible driver's insurance company, politely request all appropriate claim information, including the claim number, the adjustor handling the claim, phone numbers and fax numbers, and provide that information to your representative.

In event of an ARREST:

SILENCE IS GOLDEN - It is, without exception, always in your best interest to exercise your right to remain silent and avoid making any statements to the police.

Be polite and courteous to the arresting officers, and never become combative or argumentative.  The side of the road is never an appropriate place to challenge an officer.

Contact an attorney immediately, either directly, or through a family member, for advice on bail, court appearances, charges, and other important information related to your defense.

In the event of a DUI incident, follow the instructions on the "pink" administrative/temporary license that you will be given by the arresting officer, and contact an attorney immediately upon your release.  In addition to the criminal charges of driving under the influence, there are related administrative proceedings initiated by the DMV, which can result in a suspension of your driving privileges.  You MUST request a hearing to challenge the suspension within 10 days of the incident, and these time constraints must be complied with.

If you become aware of the existence of a warrant for your arrest, contact an attorney immediately for advice on surrendering yourself and posting bail.  Never ignore a warrant, or allow a warrant to linger in the system.