In Texas, being pulled over for suspicion of driving while intoxicated (DWI) can be a stressful and pivotal experience. The moments that follow are critical—not just for safety, but for legal protection. Stephen Gustitis, Attorney at Law, a Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist, has released a practical guide outlining ‘7 Immediate Actions to Take After a DWI Stop’ to help individuals avoid missteps and preserve their rights from the start.
The newly published resource delivers essential information to anyone facing a DWI stop, offering a clear breakdown of how to handle the encounter calmly, respectfully, and strategically. As one of the region’s most experienced DWI defense attorneys, Gustitis emphasizes that what happens in those first few minutes can strongly influence the outcome of a case.
Remaining Calm Is a Strategic Advantage
According to legal professionals at Stephen Gustitis, Attorney at Law, remaining calm during a DWI stop is more than a behavioral tip—it is a critical legal strategy. Raising one’s voice, over-explaining, or reacting emotionally can create complications that may be used against the driver later in court.
"Composure can influence how officers perceive and respond to a driver, and it also impacts how the encounter is documented and evaluated later,” said Stephen Gustitis. “In one recent case, a client chose to respectfully decline field sobriety tests and requested counsel instead of engaging in unnecessary conversation. That simple decision helped expose a procedural error by the arresting officer and created grounds for a successful defense.”
Legal experts note that calm, respectful communication paired with a firm understanding of one's rights can often prevent unnecessary arrests or at least limit the evidence that can be used against the individual.
Actions That Strengthen a Legal Defense After a DWI Stop
Stephen Gustitis, Attorney at Law, outlines seven immediate actions every driver should take if stopped under suspicion of DWI. These steps serve as a roadmap to protecting one’s rights and preserving legal options:
Pull Over Safely and Properly – Use signals and stop in a visible, lawful location.
Remain Calm and Respectful – Avoid sudden movements and maintain polite communication.
Avoid Volunteering Information – Do not admit to drinking or using drugs.
Assert the Right to Remain Silent – Only provide required documentation; decline further questioning.
Decline Field Sobriety Tests – These tests are optional and highly subjective.
Request Legal Representation Promptly – Ask for an attorney before agreeing to chemical tests.
Write Down Details Afterward – Record memories of the stop while they are still fresh, including officer behavior and time of day.
These practical actions are emphasized by leading DWI defense law firms as the foundation of a strong legal defense, even before a formal charge has been made.
The Legal Value of Retaining DWI Defense Lawyers Early
The law office of Stephen Gustitis advises that immediate legal representation is essential in DWI cases. Experienced DWI defense lawyers offer more than courtroom knowledge—they provide a strategic shield against evidence mishandling, procedural violations, and license penalties.
Legal services include:
Review of arrest footage and reports for procedural errors
Challenges to unlawful traffic stops
Suppression of improperly collected evidence
Representation in Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearings
Negotiation for charge dismissals or reductions
Courtroom defense with expert witness testimony when needed
With Texas penalties ranging from license suspension and fines to jail time, early legal intervention often determines how a case unfolds.
Legal Support from a Board-Certified DWI Defense Law Firm
Stephen Gustitis, Attorney at Law, offers clients in College Station and across Brazos County personalized, high-level criminal defense services. As one of Texas’s Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialists, Gustitis brings decades of experience in defending DWI charges, drug crimes, and violent offenses.
"Every DWI arrest has legal complexities, but the right legal guidance can turn those challenges into opportunities to protect a client’s future,” the firm stated. “Legal protection begins at the roadside and continues with strategic action inside the courtroom.”
About Stephen Gustitis, Attorney at Law
Stephen Gustitis is a Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist based in College Station, Texas. His firm represents clients in Brazos County and surrounding areas, focusing on criminal defense matters including DWI, assault, drug charges, and related offenses. Known for precision, integrity, and courtroom success, the firm is widely respected among DWI defense law firms in Texas for its thorough legal strategies and client-first approach.
