DUI Penalties

Many people think they don't need a DUI Lawyer when it comes to DUI or believe there is no way to fight a DUI charge. This isn't true. In fact, with the long-term consequences to a DUI conviction, it's vital you have the best DUI Attorney you can afford and the best defense possible.

Common DUI Penalities

The most common DUI penalties - Fines, License Revocation, and Jail:

  • First Offense - $250 - $2500 fine; up to 1 year drivers license revocation - though a restricted license is possible; up to 1 year in jail
  • Second Offense - $500 - $2500 fine; up to 3 years drivers license revocation - restriction is possible after 1 year if under 5 years or 4 months if between 5-10 years; 1 month to 1 year in jail
  • Third Offense - $1000 - $2500 fine; INDEFINITE drivers license revocation but no less than 2 years; 1-5 years in prison or 12 months in jail
  • Fourth Offense - $1000 - $2500 fine; INDEFINITE drivers license revocation but no less than 3 years; 1-5 years in prison or 12 months in jail

Other DUI Consequences

However, there are other penalties to DUI which are long-term and will affect you physically and financially.

  • Ignition Interlocks - these are installed for a minimum of six months on any vehicle registered to the driver convicted of DUI
  • Seizure and Forfeiture - if arrested and convicted of DUI, your vehicle can be impounded and forfeited.
  • Classes - Mandatory drug and alcohol rehabilitation classes
  • Employment - DUIs show up on background checks. Many employers can't and won't hire someone without a clean driving and criminal record. DUI is a criminal charge, and past the 2nd offense is a Class 6 Felony when it doesn't involve damage or injury
  • SR-22 - SR-22 certificates are issued and required for 5 years for a 1st offense, 10 years for a 2nd offense, 20 years for a 3rd offense, and for LIFE after that. SR-22 insurance must be carried for 3 years following any license revocation. Getting car insurance after that is difficult. If your company doesn't drop you completely, insurance rates can increase up to 400%.

If you're facing DUI Charges, you owe it to yourself, your family, and your future financial security to have the best defense possible. An quality DUI lawyer can keep you out of jail and behind the wheel, and avoid many of these penalties. Contact an experienced, local DUI attorney today to discuss your case.

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In this act the U.S. Government required all states to raise their minimum age for the purchase and public possession of alcohol to 21 years of age.

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