What Are The Penalties For A DUI?
If you've been charged with a DUI, you're facing serious consequences. This means you need to do everything in your power to find a good DUI lawyer and beat your charges. Here are some of the penalties you could be facing.
Criminal Record
A DUI is a criminal conviction. That means it will show up on your record forever.
If you apply for a job or an apartment, they will know you've been convicted of the crime. Some people won't hold it against you, but some might. This is especially true if you're looking for a job that requires a good driving history, whether you would be driving on the road or around a warehouse.
Jail Time
If you've been convicted of driving under the influence, you may face jail time or even prison time. The length of your sentence depends on your charges and criminal record.
Most DUIs are a misdemeanor, meaning you may spend up to a year in jail. Some DUIs are felonies that could land you in prison for a year or more. Repeat offenses or offenses where you injured someone can lead to longer sentences. If you seriously injured or killed someone, you may face decades in prison.
Fines
The judge may order you to pay a fine in addition to jail time or instead of jail time. The only time you are likely to get a fine alone is usually if it's your first offense and relatively minor.
Some of the fines are considered part of your sentence. Other fines cover mandatory costs such as court fees or attending an alcohol abuse course.
Driver's License Suspension
Most DUIs come with an automatic suspension of your driver's license. The suspension could range from months to years depending on where you live, what you were charged with, and how many times you have been convicted.
In some cases, you may be able to ask the court for limited driving privileges. This would allow you to go to essential places like work but not to drive anywhere else.
If You Refused Breath Tests
Refusing breath tests is separate from the DUI itself. In some states, you could face an additional criminal charge. In most states, you at least get your license suspended.
This might be longer than it would have been with just a DUI. You can also still get your license suspended for a refusal even if you beat the DUI charge.
To learn more about the penalties for a DUI, contact a local DUI lawyer today.
Share