What Happens If You Get a DUI?

It is a felony to drive under the influence of alcohol and drugs in any US state, which can have serious legal, financial and career repercussions. Not only could you face court appearances and fines, but there are also many processes and problems you’ll need to endure following an arrest.

If you have been caught driving under the influence, or you want to learn about the consequences of the charge, keep reading to find out what happens if you get a DUI.

You’ll Be Arrested and Booked

If a police officer suspects you have been driving under the influence, he or she will place you in the back of a police vehicle before driving you to either the nearest police station or jail. Once here, you will have a mugshot and your fingerprints taken. Depending on your state, a loved one could attend the jail or station to pay your bail so that you can return home following booking.

A Court Appearance

After you have been arrested, you will receive either a summons or a ticket, which will inform you of the date you must appear in court regarding the DUI charges. Once you arrive in court, you can either plead not guilty to refute the charges and fight a case; however, the court could show the video of you failing the field sobriety test via a police officer’s dash-cam, if available. If you ready to fight a DUI case, contact expert criminal lawyers Charleston.

The Loss of Your Driving License

If convicted of a DUI, you will lose your driving privileges for a set period of time. Depending on your state, you could automatically have your driving license suspended if you refuse to submit a breathalyzer or participate in a field sobriety test. Some states may also provide you with a hardship license, which might allow you to continue to drive to work or school.

A Financial Penalty

Most people convicted of a DUI will need to pay a fine. Every US state features a minimum and maximum sum for a DUI fine; however, other circumstances can lead to additional financial penalties.

For example, if your DUI resulted in the injury of a child or the damage of property, a judge might increase a financial penalty. It is also possible you will need to pay various court fees connected to your case.

A Jail Term

More US states are choosing to send first-time DUI offenders to jail; however, many may only need to visit jail for one or two days, which can be served during a weekend. If, however, you are a repeat offender, and your case is connected to additional felonies, it is likely you will serve much longer than a day or two.

Fulfill the Terms of Probation

Regardless of whether you are sentenced to jail time or not, it is likely you will receive a probation sentence, and the length of time will be determined by a judge. A failure to fulfill the terms of your probation could lead to you being sent to jail. You will also need to pay a monthly fee to cover the cost of administering and supervising your probation.