Weekly Tip for 6 15 2007

Hello all. Here is a tip that I feel merits mention due to the frequency with which I see drivers using profanity or other inappropriate language during the different stages of the stop, seizure and arrest process, all of which may come back to bite them at trial.

Tip: Be polite and as quiet as possible during the arrest process. Once questioning about the consumption of alcohol and the demand or "request" to get out of your car occurs you are most likely going to be arrested for DWI if you smell like alcohol at all. Anything you say can and will be used against you. Do not swear at the officer for any reason. While it is never appropriate to swear at any one for any reason, during an arrest it is even worse; your bad language will be featured prominently in the state's case against you as a "mood swing consistent with intoxication", a "belliegerent, uncooperative attitude" and other descriptors that will not help you at trial. Even if the officer uses profanity in his discussions with you, do not volley back and forth with him in this manner.

There are numerous Biblical Scriptures on profanity and it is my hope that you will read these and take them to heart:

"The tongue of the righteous is as choice silver; the heart of the wicked is of little worth." Proverbs 10:20

"Let there be no filthiness or foolish talk or crude joking, which are not fitting or becoming; but instead voice your thankfulness to God". Ephesians 5:4.

So it is best to be polite, hand your license and registration to the officer, and say or do little else.

Have a safe weekend,
Mark Stevens