Facing the Consequences: What Happens After a DUI

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Facing the Consequences: What Happens After a DUI

Making a decision to drink and drive is never positive and the consequences resulting from getting caught are even worse. Many individuals practice impaired driving at a measured rate, usually in accordance with the amount of alcohol they have consumed. This behavior can also be problematic, even though it may not result in a DUI, because reckless driving is assessed at the .05 blood alcohol content level. It does not take many drinks to achieve the reckless driving charge level, and always remember that it is a criminal charge that will remain open for public viewing, even though it is not technically called a DUI offense.

There are consequences to any apprehension for being under the influence. As it states on www.virginiaduidefense.com, “understanding a DUI charge & the potential penalties you are facing is the first step to gaining control of the situation.” Arrest and Bonding

The initial consequence of a DUI is usually the arrest process, although being involved in an accident can occur before the incarceration. Accidents involving intoxicated drivers will always result in a lawsuit of some sort, whether personal injury occurred or not.

The bonding policy is normally standard in simple impaired driving cases, but extenuating circumstances can cause a significant increase in the bond amount. In states that do not utilize bail bonding agencies, this can leave the defendant at the mercy of the state based on the 10% application.

First offenses for DUI normally do not result in jail time unless other charges exist. Multiple offenders can count a mandatory jail term of 7 days to one year. Incarceration terms can be adjusted upward, but cannot be reduced below the minimums for the charge level. Felony charges require incarceration in a state facility or prison. DMV Hearing

Many states require a separate hearing for the Department of Motor Vehicles to determine if the defendant’s license should be suspended and for how long. The suspension is determined by the level of the charge, as aggravated DUI can carry a longer suspension period. Plus, multiple DUI offenders have their driving privileges revoked for an extended period of one or more years, depending on the state and the nature of the charges.

It is important to understand that suspension periods for differing reasons can be applied consecutively instead of concurrently. Some states combine this process with the actual arraignment, which can be another hearing on plea offer. Fines and Service Fees

Fines are also assessed with any DUI conviction, along with service fees for attending any alcoholic driver education program. ADE school penalties last from 30 days to one year and fees are paid per session. Of course, a DUI will also guarantee a significant increase in automobile insurance rates as an additional punishment.

Courts are required to let a convicted drunk driver to pay fines over a period of time, but normally payments must be made monthly to avoid being arrested for failure to pay. These costs can mount for the repeat offender. It is important to take a DUI charge seriously and listen to the information provided by the ADE school and the state. All states are serious about prosecuting DUI cases because public safety is the primary mission of all court systems. The comprehensive approach to punishment for the crime can last a lifetime.

The consequences of a DUI reach far beyond the offender, as Melanie Fleury was made aware of when a family member was charged. Not every lawyer specializes in DUI, as www.virginiaduidefense.com does. If you or a family member has been charged with a DUI, contact a lawyer to help determine if going to court is a viable choice in your case.