If you’ve been arrested in Meridian or the Treasure Valley, the first 72 hours matter
An arrest can feel like your life just split into “before” and “after.” Whether it’s a DUI stop on I-84, a domestic dispute that escalated, a drug possession allegation, or a traffic charge that threatens your CDL, what you do next can affect release conditions, your driver’s license, employment, and even family-court outcomes.
Davis & Hoskisson Law Office helps clients across Idaho (including Meridian and Boise) build a defense strategy early—before missed deadlines, avoidable statements, or paperwork mistakes create long-term problems.
Step 1: Know (and use) your core rights immediately
In Idaho, the most common early damage comes from good people trying to “explain” a situation to police. You can be polite and still protect yourself.
Even a short conversation can become evidence. A defense lawyer can help you communicate through the proper channels so your side of the story is positioned strategically—not impulsively.
Step 2: Understand the “two-track” reality (especially for DUI)
Many people assume the criminal court case is the only case. For DUI in Idaho, there is often a criminal case and a separate administrative driver’s license process through the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD).
| Track | Who runs it? | What’s at risk? | Why it matters early |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal case | Court / prosecutor | Conviction, fines, jail, probation, record | Early motions + evidence preservation can change leverage |
| Administrative (ALS) | ITD hearing officer | License suspension, restricted privileges | Deadlines can be as short as 7 days to request a hearing |
ITD explains that after a failed evidentiary test, you typically have seven days to request an administrative hearing, and a first administrative suspension is often 90 days (with possible restricted privileges for part of that time), while test refusal can trigger a longer suspension. (See ITD guidance.) (itd.idaho.gov)
Step 3: Don’t underestimate “traffic” charges (reckless, inattentive, CDL exposure)
A reckless driving accusation can be a misdemeanor with real consequences—especially for commercial drivers, parents in custody disputes, or professionals who need clean background checks. Idaho’s reckless driving statute allows, for a first conviction, penalties up to six months in jail and/or a fine up to $1,000, with enhanced penalties for repeat offenses within five years. (codes.findlaw.com)
Idaho law also recognizes “inattentive driving” as a lesser offense than reckless driving in certain circumstances. (law.justia.com)
Step 4: Protect your family-law position if there’s overlap
In Meridian and across the Treasure Valley, it’s common for one incident to trigger multiple legal fronts: a criminal allegation (like domestic violence or assault), a civil protection order, and a custody dispute. Each has different rules, deadlines, and standards of proof.
Coordination matters. A statement that feels helpful in one setting can be harmful in another. If you are navigating divorce or custody while also facing criminal accusations, it’s worth having counsel who can think across the full legal landscape.
“Did you know?” quick facts that surprise many Idaho clients
A step-by-step checklist for the first week after an arrest
1) Write down everything while it’s fresh
Timeline, locations, who was present, what you were told, what you said, any medical issues, and whether there were cameras nearby (businesses, neighbors, doorbells).
2) Preserve digital evidence
Save texts, call logs, social messages, receipts, rideshare records, GPS history, and photos. Don’t edit or “clean up” anything—preserve it as-is.
3) Follow release conditions exactly
No-contact orders, alcohol restrictions, and travel limits are common. Violations can create new charges or hurt negotiation leverage.
4) Act fast on license issues (DUI and some traffic cases)
For DUI, administrative deadlines can be short. ITD’s driver-services guidance notes a seven-day window to request an administrative hearing in typical circumstances after arrest/test issues. (itd.idaho.gov)
5) Talk to a defense lawyer before “explaining” anything to anyone
Friends, coworkers, and even “private” messages can become evidence. Your attorney can help you decide what to share, when, and through which channel.
Local angle: Meridian realities—family, work, and fast-moving court schedules
Meridian is a community where your ability to drive affects everything: getting to work in Boise, school pickups, and maintaining normal routines during a divorce or custody transition. That’s why early strategy often focuses on:
If your legal problem crosses more than one area—criminal, family, business, or civil—working with a firm that handles multiple practice areas can reduce miscommunication and keep the strategy aligned.
Talk to a Boise-area criminal defense lawyer who can coordinate the full picture
If you were arrested in Meridian, Boise, or nearby, getting a clear plan early can help you protect your license, your record, and your family relationships. Davis & Hoskisson Law Office offers straightforward guidance and strategic representation across criminal defense, DUI, and related legal matters.
This content is for general information only and is not legal advice. Every case is different.
FAQ
How soon should I hire a criminal defense lawyer after an arrest?
As soon as possible—ideally before your first court appearance or any formal interview. Early counsel helps protect you from avoidable statements, missed deadlines, and evidence loss.
If I’m arrested for DUI, can I lose my license even if my criminal case is dismissed?
It’s possible, because the administrative license process is separate from the criminal case. ITD notes that there’s often a seven-day window to request an administrative hearing in typical DUI-related license actions. (itd.idaho.gov)
What’s the difference between reckless driving and inattentive driving in Idaho?
Idaho’s reckless driving law addresses driving “carelessly and heedlessly” or without due caution in a manner likely to endanger people or property, with misdemeanor penalties that can include jail and fines. (codes.findlaw.com) Idaho law also describes inattentive driving as a lesser offense for conduct that is careless or imprudent rather than heedless or wanton. (law.justia.com)
Should I talk to the alleged victim or complaining witness to “clear it up”?
Not without legal advice. If a no-contact order exists (or is issued later), communication can create new criminal exposure and complicate both criminal and family court proceedings.
Can firearm rights be restored after a felony in Idaho?
In some situations, yes—but the route depends on the offense and sentence history. The Idaho Commission of Pardons and Parole notes that for certain offenses, restoration may require an application to the Commission and that applications must be submitted no sooner than five years after discharge of felony sentences. (parole.idaho.gov)
