Being charged with a DUI can seem like the end of the world for many. The list of penalties is seemingly endless and the effects of these punishments are long-lasting. But with the right DUI defense attorney, you can help avoid some or all of the penalties.
While the specific DUI penalties vary from state to state, it helps to know what you or someone you love could be facing. Arming yourself with this knowledge and discussing your options with your attorney can be the most comforting feeling during this difficult time.
Throughout the country, many of states have put the following penalties into place to stop drinking and driving:
• Fines of typically a minimum of $2000 or more depending on jurisdiction
• Administrative license suspension and/or revocation
• Court appointed alcohol education classes and treatments
• Community service
• Installation of an ignition interlock system
• Vehicle impounding or confiscation
• Jail, with the term depending on the jurisdiction and the severity of the crime and number offenses
Any of these punishments can significantly affect your lifestyle. Imagine blowing into an ignition interlock device every time you start your car, and every ten minutes you’re driving. How about insurance rate increases and difficulty finding coverage, or even worse, losing your drivers license? What if you lost your vehicle, job, or freedom? These are the stark realities of a DUI conviction. If that isn’t bad enough, the severity of penalty increases if this isn’t your first offense. In many states multiple offenders can face twice the penalty. These individuals face the full force of the judicial system.
While these are some of the harshest penalties you could face for a DUI conviction, it does not stop there. There are other penalties that are more discreet or “hidden”.
For example, did you know that with a DUI conviction you may not be able to enter other countries? Canada, for example considers any crime whether it be a misdemeanor or felony to be an offense. They consider this a reason to not be allowed to enter the country.
You can also be facing higher insurance premiums or a cancellation or your policy altogether. You can even lose your job due to the affects of the other penalties. Jail, community and vehicle impoundment can seriously affect your job.
This is why it is so important to contact an experienced DUI defense attorney to represent you. They can find ways to lessen charges or even have the case against you dismissed. Breathe a sigh of relief and contact one in your state today!
awmakers everywhere are constantly introducing new bills that tighten DUI Penalties and Laws. It can be very intimidating for an individual to face the constant threats of lawmakers, police, and prosecutors. It may feel like the whole world is against you. But there is someone who understands. Professional and experienced DUI lawyers are in every part of the country. It’s here that you can be sure to find an experienced lawyer who will hear your concerns and work for you. A DUI specialist attorney can minimize your serious charges, or even have them completely dismissed.
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You MUST have someone on your side that knows the DUI laws in your state inside and out. You need a lawyer who specializes in DUI with experience tackling cases the same as yours – with positive results. Don’t open the phone book. We’ve already done the hard work finding qualified DUI lawyers for you! It is imperative that you act quickly! Click on your state and we will match you with an experienced, local DUI lawyer that can start helping you today.