Do I have to pay my other tickets after a DUII arrest in Oregon?

Wondering if you need to pay your other tickets after a DUII arrest in Oregon? It’s important not to resolve these tickets until you understand your legal options.

If you were arrested for a DUII (aka DUI or DWI) in Oregon, you may also have received driving tickets (“citations”) for things like failure to maintain your lane, speeding, or improper lane changes. It can feel tempting to pay these fines quickly to “get them off your plate,” but doing so could hurt your DUII case. Here’s what you need to know:

• Paying tickets after a DUII arrest in Oregon can affect your DUII case.

• You may be admitting guilt by paying tickets before your DUII is resolved.

• Your lawyer may be able to negotiate dismissal of these tickets.

Why You Should Wait Before Paying

Paying the fine for these citations is the same as pleading guilty. By doing so, you may unintentionally admit to facts that could impact your DUII defense or limit your options in court. It is important not to resolve these citations before you have spoken with a lawyer who understands the complexities of DUII cases in Oregon.

How These Citations May Affect Your DUII Case

If your citations are in the same court as your DUII charge, your attorney may be able to negotiate to have these additional citations dismissed as part of resolving your DUII case. This can help protect your driving record, save you money, and prevent unnecessary complications.

Talk With a Lawyer First

The bottom line: do not pay or plead guilty to additional citations tied to your DUII arrest until you have consulted with a DUII attorney. Understanding your full legal picture will help you make the best decisions to protect your future.