In most states, first time offenders of DUI is considered a misdemeanor, but it doesn’t mean that you should be lax or worry-free because there are also serious consequences of being arrested or convicted of a DUI. For those who are charged with DUI for the first time, it is important to equip themselves with the right knowledge and attitude to face the arresting officer or any authority, as well as the facts and nature of a DUI charge. Many of us think that a person will only get probation for the first time DUI. However, the court may still order jail time as a condition of probation.
So what happens if you are arrested or charged with DUI? For a first time DUI, it is generally considered as a misdemeanor offense, and the punishment include paying a fine, license suspension, community service, and probation. There are some factors that may affect the nature or level of the charge which can result in enhanced penalties or sentences. For example, if you are arrested for DUI and you have a child passenger, the misdemeanor offense may elevate to a felony, even if it is only a first-time offense. Administrative elements of a DUI case may be worse than the charge itself, such as having a driver’s license suspended if you refuse to undergo a breath analyzer test. If your driver’s license is suspended but you still drive and got caught, you will pay more fines and new charges. Some states also require DUI offenders to install an ignition interlock device while he DUI case is still ongoing. Even if it is your first time, you have to face long-term consequences having a DUI offense. Any DUI probation will still be kept on your records that can be held against you later on. If another DUI charge is committed the second time, this will aggravate the next sentence and so as the penalty. Having multiple charges of DUI can elevate the conviction to felony.
Bear in mind that your employment can be affected by a first-time DUI offense. Employers are very strict about hiring people with the criminal background even for misdemeanor offenses. You’ll be considered as a risk factor by your auto insurance company, and your car insurance rate will increase. If a DUI offense will result in felony, most auto insurance companies won’t be able to cover the cost of the accident. Are your recently involved in a DUI case? You need to hire a DUI lawyer to help you gauge and choose options. We are committed and dedicated to helping you with your DUI case through our expert DUI lawyer.