A DUI conviction on your driving record can impose severe consequences that impact you for years. If you already have a DUI on your record and are cited a second time, there’s even more at stake. A second conviction carries stiffer penalties.
Note that a citation for drunk driving isn’t the same as a conviction. Once you’re cited, you can – and should – fight the charges. With the help of an experienced DUI defense lawyer, you may be able to get the charges dismissed or reduced. If you neglect to fight them, you’ll be throwing yourself on the mercy of the court and subject to the same penalties as if you plead guilty.
What Happens If You’re Convicted Of Drunk Driving?
A DUI conviction is arguably worse than being convicted for most other types of traffic violations. You’ll be subject to fines, license suspension, vehicle impoundment, community service, and possible jail time.
Fines range from $500 to $1,000 for a first-time conviction. If your BAL (blood alcohol level) is 0.15 or higher, you’ll pay fines ranging from $1,000 to $2,000.
If you’re convicted of drunk driving, your driver’s license will be automatically revoked for a minimum of 180 days. The judge may sign off on revoking your license for up to an entire year.
You’ll also be required to put in 50 hours of community service time. Alternatively, you may be able to pay an additional $10 in fines for each hour.
A conviction may also impose jail time at the judge’s discretion. He or she may require you to spend up to six months in incarceration. If your BAL measures 0.15 or higher, the judge may increase your jail time to up to nine months.
Why You Should Call A DUI Defense Attorney Immediately
You have an opportunity to fight the DUI charges, which can result in getting them dropped, dismissed, or reduced. This means you may be able to avoid all or some of the penalties described above. The catch is, you only have 10 days from the time you receive the citation to do so.
Don’t let this short time window pass without contacting a DUI defense attorney. An experienced attorney will prepare a carefully-constructed defense with the purpose of seeking a dismissal or acquittal. Sans those two outcomes, he or she may successfully get the penalties reduced, particularly if this is your first DUI offense.
The traffic defense lawyers at Skubiak & Rivas possess over 60 years of combined experience in successfully defending clients against all types of traffic citations. If you’re cited for drunk driving, contact us immediately. Complete the form on this page or call 407-904-7943 to hire an experienced DUI defense attorney to protect your driving record and driving privileges.
