Here are tips about what does and doesn’t work in our legal system and why.

• What doesn’t work: Giving your sober buddy ten bucks to wear a Darth Vader mask and blow into your ignition interlock device (IID) and then try to hold your breath until you make it to the nearest bar.

• First, you cannot hold your breath for that long.
• ŸSecond, tampering with a court-mandated IID is a good way to rack up additional criminal charges.
• Third,  your accomplice may end up with criminal misdemeanor charges as well.

• What works: Respect all the conditions of your DUI conviction for the term of your probation — typically 18 months for a first offender. Use the IID installed in your vehicle correctly.

Having an IID in your car may be an inconvenience, but it is a better alternative to having your license and driving privileges revoked. The court does not want you to lose your job after your DUI. You must be sober to start a car with an IID device installed. Most have additional safeguards against drunken driving including repeated breath testing. Some IIDs keep a photo record to ensure that no one but the designated driver is turning the ignition key.

You might be required to purchase and install an IID for offenses such as:

• DUI conviction, first offense
• DUI conviction, second offense within 10 years
• Refusing a chemical test
• Automotive homicide

Violating parole by operating a vehicle that does not have an IID installed is a Class B misdemeanor.

Getting an experienced DUI defense attorney after your arrest is a smart move. Your lawyer may challenge evidence presented against you and negotiate a dismissal or more favorable terms.