State DUI Laws

DUI Law: California DUI Penalties

2007-01-10T15:22:00.000-05:00

This article deals with California DUI penalties that do not involve any aggravating factors which merit an “Enhanced” penalty. Such factors include a child in the car (under 14), speeding, driving on a suspended or restricted license, accidents, high blood alcohol content (over .20), etc.

In California, all DUI offenses within the past ten (10) years wherever they occurred are considered “prior offenses.”

First DUI Offense in California
Your first DUI offense will result in a prison sentence of forty eight (48) hours which may be converted into work release. You will then be required to remain on probation for three (3) to five (5) years. You will also receive a minimum fine of between $1,400.00 and $1,800.00 and face a suspension of your driver’s license for six (6) months. You will also be required to attend DUI school for a minimum of 12 and maximum of 45 hours.

Second DUI Offense in California
Your second DUI offense will result in a minimum prison sentence of ninety six (96) hours which may be converted into work release. Most counties will require you to serve at least ten (10) days in jail. Some require up to thirty (30). You will then be required to remain on probation for three (3) to five (5) years.

You will also receive a minimum fine of between $1,800.00 and $2,800.00 and face a suspension of your driver’s license for eighteen (18) months. You will also be required to attend DUI school for eighteen (18) months.

Third DUI Offense in California
Your third DUI offense will result in a minimum prison sentence of one hundred twenty (120) days of jail time which may be converted into home arrest or rehab. Most counties will require you to serve at least two hundred ten (210) days in jail. Some require one (1) year. You will then be required to remain on probation for three (3) to five (5) years.

You will also receive a minimum fine of between $1,800.00 and $2,800.00 and face a suspension of your driver’s license for up to three (3) years. You will also be required to attend DUI school for eighteen (18) months.

Fourth DUI Offense in California
Your fourth DUI offense may be considered a felony resulting in three (3) years in state prison and permanent loss of license.

To get the best results for your DUI case, contact one of our sponsoring attorneys below or at the top of this page. Do not risk handling your case by yourself.

DUI Law: California Enhanced DUI Penalties

2007-01-10T14:19:00.000-05:00

In California, as in most states, there are several categories of DUI conviction. Among these are the “Standard” DUI penalties, the “Enhanced” DUI penalties and penalties involving DUI by minors. This post deals with “Enhanced” DUI penalties. For information on the “Standard” DUI penalties check out this article titled DUI: California's (Non-Enhanced) DUI Penalties.

Enhanced DUI Penalties in California
California has instituted a statute containing several Enhanced DUI penalties when certain aggravating factors exist at the time of the DUI arrest. Factors which generally merit an Enhanced DUI penalty include (1) prior DUI convictions, (2) a high Blood Alcohol Content, (3) refusal to submit to chemical testing, (4) speeding or reckless driving, (5) child endangerment, and (6) accident or injury are involved.

Prior DUI Convictions
If you have been convicted of DUI within the previous ten (10) years, the minimum jail sentence, DUI school and license suspension are increased. If you have been convicted twice within the previous ten (10) years the penalties are increased further. Three (3) prior convictions will result in felony charges (punishable by state prison).

High Blood Alcohol Content
California imposes an enhanced sentence when your BAC is .15 percent or higher.

Refusal to Submit to Chemical Testing
Should you refuse to submit to chemical testing your jail term will be increased in addition to the administrative suspension for your refusal.

Speeding or Reckless Driving
In California you will receive an enhanced penalty when you are caught DUI and driving twenty (20) mph over the speed limit on a surface street or thirty (30) mph over the limit on a freeway.

Child Endangerment
In California you will receive an enhanced DUI penalty if you are caught DUI with an individual under the age of fourteen (14) in the car.

Accident or Injury
If you injure someone while DUI your DUI may be considered a felony.

DUI Law: Georgia DUI Penalties

2006-12-21T15:46:00.000-05:00

In Georgia, if you are twenty one (21) years old or older you can be convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) if your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is .08 or greater. If you are under twenty one (21) you can be convicted of DUI if your BAC is .02 or greater. You may also be convicted of DUI if the State Attorney can show that your normal faculties were impaired by alcohol at the time you were driving (i.e. slurred speech, can’t walk in a straight line, etc.).

First Offense DUI in Georgia
Your first DUI offense in Georgia may be considered a “Simple Misdemeanor” and will result in a prison sentence of between ten (10) days to one (1) year. At the Court’s discretion all but twenty four (24) hours of your jail time may be suspended, stayed or probated.

You will receive a minimum fine of between $300.00 and $1,000.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments that can add twenty percent (20%) to thirty percent (30%) to your fine. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for one (1) year which may be reinstated after one hundred twenty (120) days. Prior to applying for driver’s license reinstatement you must complete a Risk Reduction Program. You will also receive a minimum of forty (40) hours of community service and probation.

Second Offense DUI in Georgia
Your second DUI offense in Georgia may also be considered a “Simple Misdemeanor” and will result in a prison sentence of between ninety (90) days to one (1) year. At the Court’s discretion all but seventy two (72) consecutive hours of your jail time may be suspended, stayed or probated.

You will receive a minimum fine of between $600.00 and $1,000.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments that can add twenty percent (20%) to thirty percent (30%) to your fine. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for three (3) years which may not be reinstated for more than one (1) year. Prior to applying for driver’s license reinstatement you must complete all alcohol and drug treatment programs. You will also receive a minimum of thirty (30) days of community service and probation.

Your driver’s license photo will also be published in the newspaper and have an ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle.

Third Offense DUI in Georgia
Your third DUI offense in Georgia may be considered a “High and Aggravated Misdemeanor” and will result in a prison sentence of between one hundred twenty (120) days to one (1) year. At the Court’s discretion all but fifteen (15) days of your jail time may be suspended, stayed or probated.

You will receive a minimum fine of between $1,000.00 and $5,000.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments that can add twenty percent (20%) to thirty percent (30%) to your fine. You will also have your driver’s license revoked for five (5) years which may not be reinstated for more than two (1) years. You will also be designated a “Habitual Offender.” Prior to applying for driver’s license reinstatement you must complete all alcohol and drug treatment programs. You will also receive a minimum of thirty (30) days of community service and probation.

Your driver’s license photo will also be published in the newspaper and have an ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle.

DUI Law: Colorado DUI and DWAI Penalties

2006-12-10T12:01:00.000-05:00

If you have been caught drinking and driving in Colorado you may be charged with either DWAI (Driving While Ability is Impaired by Drugs or Alcohol) or DUI (Driving Under the Influence of Drugs). This article details the penalties for both offenses and offers legal assistance through our sponsoring attorneys.

First Offense DWAI (Blood Alcohol Content Between .05 and .079)
DWAI is the lesser of the two offenses. Your first DWAI offense will result in a prison sentence of between two (2) days to one hundred eighty (180) days. You will also receive a minimum fine of between $100.00 and $500.00 and have eight (8) points assessed against your driver’s license. You will also be required to perform between twenty four (24) and forty eight (48) hours of community service.

As you can see, there is a wide range of jail time the Court may impose upon you. Be sure to have an attorney represent you even if you are only charged with DWAI.

Second Offense DWAI
Your second DWAI offense within five (5) years will result in a prison sentence of between forty five (45) days to one (1) year. You will also receive a minimum fine of between $300.00 and $1,000.00 and have your driver's license revoked for one (1) year. You will also be required to perform between forty eight (48) and ninety six (96) hours of community service.

Again, there is a wide range of jail time the Court may impose upon you. Be sure to have an attorney represent you.

DWAI With Prior DUI
If you are convicted of DWAI after having been convicted of DUI during the previous five (5) years you will face a prison sentence of between sixty (60) days to one (1) year. You will also receive a minimum fine of between $400.00 and $1,200.00 and have your driver's license revoked for one (1) year. You will also be required to perform between fifty two (52) and one hundred four (104) hours of community service.

First Offense DUI (Blood Alcohol Content Between .08 or higher)
DUI is the greater of the two offenses. Your first DUI offense will result in a prison sentence of between five (5) days to one (1) year. You will also receive a minimum fine of between $300.00 and $1,000.00 and have your driver's license suspended for one (1) year. You will also be required to perform between forty eight (48) and ninety six (96) hours of community service.

Second Offense DUI
Your second DUI offense within five (5) years will result in a prison sentence of between ninety (90) days to one (1) year. You will also receive a minimum fine of between $500.00 and $1,500.00 and have your driver's license revoked for one (1) year. You will also be required to perform between sixty (60) and one hundred twenty (120) hours of community service.

DUI With Prior DWAI
If you are convicted of DUI after having been convicted of DWAI during the previous five (5) years you will face a prison sentence of between seventy (70) days to one (1) year. You will also receive a minimum fine of between $450.00 and $1,500.00 and have your driver's license revoked for one (1) year. You will also be required to perform between fifty six (56) and one hundred twelve (112) hours of community service.

As you can see there is a wide range of charges and sentences that can be imposed on you if you are caught DWAI or DUI. To get the best results, contact one of our sponsoring attorneys below or at the top of this page.

DUI Law: Connecticut DUI Penalties

2006-11-27T13:11:00.000-05:00

If you have been arrested for DUI in Connecticut you have probably already experienced having your vehicle towed at your expense, being taken in a police cruiser to the police station and subjected to a Blood Alcohol Content exam. If you refused the exam, you may have also experienced having your license suspended for at least 6 months. In either case, you need a DUI attorney.

Hopefully, by this point those things are behind you. Whether they are or not we would advise that you contact one of our sponsoring attorneys for the next step in the process: Dealing with the probability of conviction. Consider the following mandatory penalties:

First DUI Offense
Your first DUI offense will result in a prison sentence of between forty eight (48) hours and six (6) months. In lieu of the jail time you may be given the option to perform up to one hundred (100) hours of community service. You will also receive a fine of between $500.00 and $1,000.00 and face a suspension of your driver’s license for one (1) year.

Second DUI Offense
Your second DUI offense will result in a prison sentence of between one hundred twenty (120) days and two (2) years. You will also receive a fine of between $1,000.00 and $4,000.00 and be required to perform one hundred (100) hours of community service.

If your first DUI arrest was in Connecticut, you face a suspension of your driver's license for one (1) year followed by twenty four (24) months with an approved ignition interlock device. If your first DUI arrest was not in Connecticut, you face a suspension of your driver's license for three (3) years.

If you are under twenty one (21) years old, you face a suspension of your driver's license for three (3) years or until you are twenty one (21) years of age (whichever is longer).

Third DUI Offense
Your third DUI offense will result in a prison sentence of between one (1) year and three (3) years. You will also receive a fine of between $2,000.00 and $8,000.00 and be required to perform one hundred (100) hours of community service.

Your driver's license will be permanently revoked. Connecticut is not playing around.

To get the best results for your DUI case, contact one of our sponsoring attorneys below or at the top of this page. Do not risk handling your case by yourself.

DUI Law: Alaska's Mandatory Penalties

2006-11-15T10:04:00.000-05:00

If you have been pulled over and charged with DUI in Alaska, there are a number of mandatory penalties you may face. As in most states, the penalties vary greatly depending upon the circumstances of the arrest, the Judge in charge of your case and, most importantly, whether you have or have not hired an attorney. Consider the following mandatory penalties:

First Offense
Your first offense is considered a Misdemeanor. You face a minimum jail sentence of seventy two (72) consecutive hours and a minimum fine of $1,500 plus a fee of $270 for the cost of your imprisonment. Your driver's license will be revoked for at least ninety (90) days.

Second Offense
Your second offense is also considered a Misdemeanor. You face a minimum jail sentence of twenty (20) days and a minimum fine of $3,000 plus a fee of $1,000 for the cost of your imprisonment. Your driver's license will be revoked for at least one (1) year.

Third Offense
Your third offense may be considered a Misdemeanor or Felony depending upon the circumstances. You face a minimum jail sentence of between sixty (60) and one hundred twenty (120) days and a minimum fine of between $5,000 and $10,000 plus a fee of $1,000 for the cost of your imprisonment. Your driver's license will be revoked for at least three (3) years and possibly for life.

Fourth Offense
Your fourth offense may also be considered a Misdemeanor or Felony depending upon the circumstances. You face a minimum jail sentence of between one hundred twenty (120) and two hundred forty (240) days and a minimum fine of between $5,000 and $10,000 plus a fee of $1,000 for the cost of your imprisonment. Your driver's license will be revoked for at least five (5) years and possibly for life.

Fifth Offense
Your fifth offense may also be considered a Misdemeanor or Felony depending upon the circumstances. You face a minimum jail sentence of between two hundred forty (240) and three hundred sixty (360) days and a minimum fine of between $6,000 and $10,000 plus a fee of $1,000 for the cost of your imprisonment. Your driver's license will be revoked for at least five (5) years and possibly for life.

Sixth Offense
Your sixth offense may also be considered a Misdemeanor or Felony depending upon the circumstances. You face a minimum jail sentence of three hundred sixty (360) days and a minimum fine of between $7,000 and $10,000 plus a fee of $1,000 for the cost of your imprisonment. Your driver's license will be revoked for at least five (5) years and possibly for life.

As you can see there is a wide range of charges and sentences that can be imposed on you if you are caught DUI. To get the best results, contact one of our sponsoring attorneys below or at the top of this page. There is just too big a risk going it alone.

DUI Law: Delaware DUI Penalties

2006-10-05T13:39:00.000-04:00

In Delaware, you can be convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) if your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is .08 or greater. You may also be convicted of DUI if the State Attorney can show that your normal faculties were impaired by alcohol at the time you were driving (i.e. slurred speech, can’t walk in a straight line, etc.).

First Offense DUI in Delaware
Your first DUI offense in Delaware (BAC between .08 and .10) may result in a prison sentence of between sixty (60) days and three (3) months. You will receive a fine of between $250.00 and $1,500.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license revoked for three (3) months.

Second (and Subsequent) Offense DUI in Delaware
Your second DUI offense in Delaware will result in a mandatory prison sentence of between sixty (60) days and three (3) months. You will receive a fine of between $575.00 and $2,300.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license revoked for one (1) year.

As you can see there is a wide range of charges and sentences that can be imposed on you if you are caught DUI in Delaware. To get the best results, contact one of our sponsoring attorneys below or at the top of this page.

DWI Law: New Jersey DWI Penalties

2006-10-05T13:07:00.000-04:00

In New Jersey, you can be convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DWI) if your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is .08 or greater. You may also be convicted of DWI if the State Attorney can show that your normal faculties were impaired by alcohol at the time you were driving (i.e. slurred speech, can’t walk in a straight line, etc.). If your BAC is .10 or greater you may receive enhanced penalties.

First Offense DWI in New Jersey (BAC between .08 and .10)
Your first DWI offense in New Jersey (BAC between .08 and .10) may result in a prison sentence of up to thirty (30) days. You will receive a fine of between $250.00 and $400.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for three (3) months.

First Offense DWI in New Jersey (BAC over .10 - Enhanced Penalty)
Your first DWI offense in New Jersey (BAC over .10) may result in a prison sentence of up to thirty (30) days. You will receive a fine of between $300.00 and $500.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for between seven (7) months to one (1) year.

Second Offense DWI in New Jersey
Your second DWI offense in New Jersey will result in a prison sentence of between forty eight (48) consecutive hours and ninety (90) days. You will receive a fine of between $500.00 and $1,000.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for two (2) years. You will be given thirty (30) days community service.

Third (or Subsequent) Offense DWI in New Jersey
Your third DWI offense in New Jersey will result in a prison sentence of at least one hundred eighty (180) days. You will receive a fine of $1,000.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for ten (10) years.

As you can see there is a wide range of charges and sentences that can be imposed on you if you are caught DWI in New Jersey. To get the best results, contact one of our sponsoring attorneys below or at the top of this page.

DUI Law: Utah DUI Penalties

2006-09-06T13:59:00.000-04:00

In Utah, you can be convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) if your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is .08 or greater. You may also be convicted of DUI if the State Attorney can show that your normal faculties were impaired by alcohol at the time you were driving (i.e. slurred speech, can’t walk in a straight line, etc.). If your BAC is .16 or greater you may receive enhanced penalties.

First Offense DUI in Utah
Your first DUI offense in Utah will result in a prison sentence of two (2) days to six (6) months. You will receive a fine of between $1,295.00 and $1,850.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for ninety (90) days, be placed on probation and be required to attend an alcohol prevention class.

Second Offense DUI in Utah
Your second DUI offense in Utah will result in a prison sentence of ten (10) days to six (6) months. You will receive a fine of between $1,480.00 and $1,850.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for one (1) year, be place on probation and be required to attend an alcohol prevention class. You may also be required to have an ignition interlock device installed on your car.

Third Offense DUI in Utah
Your third DUI offense in Utah will result in a prison sentence of up to five (5) years. You will receive a fine of between $1,500.00 and $2,500.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for one (1) year, be place on probation and be required to attend an alcohol prevention class. You may also be required to have an ignition interlock device installed on your car.

As you can see there is a wide range of charges and sentences that can be imposed on you if you are caught DUI in Utah. To get the best results, contact one of our sponsoring attorneys below or at the top of this page.

DUI Law: Virginia DUI Penalties

2006-08-21T11:47:00.000-04:00

In Virginia, you can be convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) if your Blood Alcohol Level (BAL) is .08 or greater. You may also be convicted of DUI if the State Attorney can show that your normal faculties were impaired by alcohol at the time you were driving (i.e. slurred speech, can’t walk in a straight line, etc.).

First Offense DUI in Virginia
Your first DUI offense in Virginia may be considered a Class I misdemeanor and will result in a prison sentence of at least five (5) days. You will receive a minimum fine of $250.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for one (1) year. You may also be required to have an ignition interlock device installed on your car.

Second Offense DUI in Virginia
Your second DUI offense in Virginia may result in a prison sentence of between one (1) month to one (1) year. You will receive a minimum fine of $500.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for three (3) years. You may also be required to have an ignition interlock device installed on your car.

Third Offense DUI in Virginia
Your third DUI offense in Virginia may be considered a Class 6 felony and will result in a prison sentence of at least one (1) year. You will receive a minimum fine of $1,000.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license suspended indefinitely and will remain on probation for the length of time of your license suspension. You will also be required to have an ignition interlock device installed on your car.

Fourth Offense DUI in Virginia
Your fourth DUI offense in Virginia may be considered a Class 6 felony and will result in a prison sentence of at least one (1) year. You will receive a minimum fine of $1,000.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license suspended indefinitely and will remain on probation for the length of time of your license suspension. You will also be required to have an ignition interlock device installed on your car.

As you can see there is a wide range of charges and sentences that can be imposed on you if you are caught DUI. To get the best results, contact one of our sponsoring attorneys below or at the top of this page.

DUI Law: Nevada DUI Penalties

2006-08-11T09:38:00.000-04:00

In Nevada, you can be convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) if your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is .08 or greater. You may also be convicted of DUI if the State Attorney can show that your normal faculties were impaired by alcohol at the time you were driving (i.e. slurred speech, can’t walk in a straight line, etc.).

First Offense DUI in Nevada
Your first DUI offense in Nevada may be considered a misdemeanor and will result in a prison sentence of between two (2) days to six (6) months. At the Court’s discretion you may be able to substitute the prison time for ninety six (96) hours of community service.

You will receive a minimum fine of between $340.00 and $1,175.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments that can add twenty percent (20%) to thirty percent (30%) to your fine. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for ninety (90) days. You must also complete an eight (8) hour DUI school or substance abuse program and attend a drunk driving victims panel. You may also be required to have an ignition interlock device installed on your car for three (3) to six (6) months.

Second Offense DUI in Nevada
Your second DUI offense in Nevada may also be considered a misdemeanor and will result in a prison sentence of between ten (10) days to six (6) months. You will receive a minimum fine of between $675.00 and $1,175.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments that can add twenty percent (20%) to thirty percent (30%) to your fine. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for one (1) year. You must also complete an eight (8) hour DUI school or substance abuse program and attend a drunk driving victims panel. You may also be required to have an ignition interlock device installed on your car for three (3) to six (6) months.

Third Offense DUI in Nevada
Your third DUI offense in Nevada will be considered a felony and will result in a prison sentence of between one (1) year to six (6) years in a state prison. You will receive a minimum fine of between $2,085.00 and $5,085.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments that can add twenty percent (20%) to thirty percent (30%) to your fine. You will also have your driver’s license revoked for three (3) years.

DUI Offense Causing Death or Substantial Bodily Injury
A DUI offense in Nevada involving an accident causing death or substantial bodily injury to another will be considered a felony and will result in a prison sentence of between two (2) and twenty (20) years in a state prison. This is so even if it was your first DUI offense.

DUI Law: New York DWAI and New York DWI Penalties

2006-08-03T10:53:00.000-04:00

In New York State, there are two terms for drinking and driving: Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) and Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI). Of the two, DWI is the more serious charge and kicks in when your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is .08 or greater. DWAI is the lesser charge and it applies when your BAC is between .05 and .079).

Another term you should be aware of is DWAI/Drugs which simply means Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs other than alcohol.

First Offense DWAI in New York
Your first DWAI offense may result in a maximum prison sentence of fifteen (15) days. You will also receive a mandatory fine of between $300.00 and $500.00 and have your driver's license suspended for ninety (90) days.

As in most states, there is a wide range of jail time the Court may impose upon you. Be sure to have an attorney represent you even if you are only charged with DWAI.

Second Offense DWAI in New York
Your second DWAI offense within five (5) may result in a maximum prison sentence of thirty (30) days. You will also receive a mandatory fine of between $500.00 and $750.00 and have your driver's license revoked for at least six (6) months.

First Offense DWI in New York
Your first DWI offense may result in a maximum prison sentence of one (1) year. You will also receive a mandatory fine of between $500.00 and $1,000.00 and have your driver's license revoked for at least six (6) months.

Second Offense DWI in New York
Your second DWI offense within ten (10) years is a Class E felony and may result in a maximum prison sentence of four (4) years. You will also receive a mandatory fine of between $1000.00 and $5,000.00 and have your driver's license revoked for at least one (1) year.

Third Offense DWI in New York
Your third DWI offense within ten (10) years is a Class D felony and may result in a maximum prison sentence of seven (7) years. You will also receive a mandatory fine of between $2,000.00 and $10,000.00 and have your driver's license revoked for at least one (1) year.

As you can see there is a wide range of charges and sentences that can be imposed on you if you are caught DWAI or DUI. To get the best results, contact one of our sponsoring attorneys below or at the top of this page.

DUI Law: Arizona Misdemeanor DUI Penalties

2006-07-31T11:38:00.000-04:00

If you are convicted of misdemeanor DUI in Arizona, the Court will look at two things to determine what range of penalties should be imposed against you. The first thing the Court will look at is your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC). If your BAC falls between .080 and .150 you will not be subjected to the harsher penalties imposed on those with a BAC over .150. If your BAC is over .150, you will be considered as having been under the “Extreme Influence” of alcohol and a harsher sentence range will apply.

The second thing the Court will look at is whether you have a past criminal history. If so, the Court will also take into account that history.

First DUI Offense (BAC between .080 and .150)
Your first DUI offense will result in a prison sentence of ten (10) consecutive days in jail. The court may suspend nine (9) of the ten (10) days if you agree to get an alcohol and/or drug evaluation, and submit to treatment. You will also receive a minimum fine of $750.00 and face a suspension of your driver’s license for ninety (90) days.

You may also be required to submit to counseling and placed on probation for up to five (5) years.

Second DUI Offense (BAC between .080 and .150)
Your second DUI offense will result in a prison sentence of ninety (90) days in jail. The court may suspend sixty (60) of the ninety (90) days if you agree to get an alcohol and/or drug evaluation, and submit to treatment. You will be required to pay a minimum of $2,000.00 and face a suspension of your driver’s license for one (1) year.

You may also be required to submit to counseling, placed on probation for up to five (5) years and be required to have an Ignition Interlock Device installed on your vehicle.

First Extreme DUI Offense (BAC above .150)
Your first “Extreme” DUI offense will result in a prison sentence of thirty (30) consecutive days in jail. The court may suspend twenty (20) of the thirty (30) days if you agree to get an alcohol and/or drug evaluation, and submit to treatment. You will be required to pay a minimum of $1,500.00 and face a suspension of your driver’s license for ninety (90) days.

You may also be required to submit to counseling, placed on probation for up to five (5) years and be required to have an Ignition Interlock Device installed on your vehicle.

Second Extreme DUI Offense (BAC above .150)
Your second “Extreme” DUI offense will result in a prison sentence of one hundred twenty (120) days in jail of which sixty (60) days must be consecutive. The court may suspend sixty (60) of the one hundred twenty (120) days if you agree to get an alcohol and/or drug evaluation, and submit to treatment. You will be required to pay a minimum of $2,000.00 and face a suspension of your driver’s license for one (1) year.

You may also be required to submit to counseling, placed on probation for up to five (5) years and be required to have an Ignition Interlock Device installed on your vehicle.

As you can see there is a wide range of sentences that can be imposed on you if you are convicted of DUI in Arizona. To get the best results, contact one of our sponsoring attorneys below or at the top of this page. There is just too big a risk going it alone.

DUI Law: First Time Offense In Alabama (18 and Over)

2006-07-20T18:45:00.000-04:00

If you have been pulled over and arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Alabama you may be luckier than you know. Statistics show that driving while intoxicated is one of the top causes of violent deaths in Alabama today. But that is probably little consolation to you as you deal with the legal ramifications of what is hopefully your first (and last) experience with DUI.

DUI Legal Limit for Adults
You probably know this by now, but in Alabama you are considered per se DUI if you are an adult and have a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of .08%. You may also be considered DUI at a lower BAC level if the officer determines that you are incapable of driving safely as a result of drugs or alcohol in your system. This includes prescription drugs.

First Time Offense
If this is your first offense for DUI the good news is your judge is not required to impose a jail sentence on you. If your judge does impose a jail sentence it cannot be for more than one (1) year. It is imperative that you find an attorney as soon as possible to make you aware of your rights and to negotiate with the prosecuting attorney.

You may also be fined between $600 and $2100 and required to pay an additional $100 fine to the Impaired Drivers Trust Fund. Your driver's license will be suspended for ninety (90) days and you will be required to enroll in an Alcohol Education and Treatment program. Prior to enrolling in the program you are required to submit to an alcohol assessment to determine the nature and extent of your alcohol problems.

Remember, if you do not comply with the terms of your program you cannot have your license reinstated and may be required to return to court for further action.

Contact one of our sponsoring attorneys today to assess your DUI case and obtain the zealous representation you need. Our sponsoring attorneys are located below and at the top of this page.

DUI Law: Take The Fifth

2006-07-19T17:38:00.000-04:00

Check out this article titled Take the Fifth if You've Consumed a Fifth on why you should take the Fifth Amendment if you are pulled over for DUI.

DUI Law: Things You Need To Know

2006-07-17T15:48:00.000-04:00

Check out this post at The Online Lawyer titled DUI: Things You Need To Know.

DUI Law: Florida DUI Penalties

2006-06-30T13:19:00.000-04:00

In Florida, you can be convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) if your Blood Alcohol Level (BAL) is .08 or greater. You may also be convicted of DUI if the State Attorney can show that your normal faculties were impaired by alcohol at the time you were driving (i.e. slurred speech, can’t walk in a straight line, etc.).

First Offense DUI in Florida
Your first DUI offense in Florida will result in a prison sentence of no more than six (6) months unless your BAL is over .20 or you were driving with a minor in the car. If either of these two aggravating factors occur then the Court can sentence you to up to nine (9) months in prison. At the Court's discretion, you may be allowed to serve your sentence in a residential alcoholism or drug abuse treatment program.

You will also receive a minimum fine of between $250.00 and $500.00 unless the aggravating factors discussed in the previous paragraph are present. If the aggravating factors are present the minimum fine is between $500.00 and $1,000.00. You will also have your driver’s license revoked for between one hundred eighty (180) days to one (1) year and be required to perform between fifty (50) hours of community service.

Second Offense DUI in Florida
Your second DUI offense in Florida will result in a prison sentence of no more than nine (9) months unless your BAL is over .20 or you were driving with a minor in the car. If either of these two aggravating factors occur then the Court can sentence you to up to one (1) year in prison. At the Court's discretion, you may be allowed to serve your sentence in a residential alcoholism or drug abuse treatment program.

You will also receive a minimum fine of between $500.00 and $1,000.00 unless the aggravating factors discussed in the previous paragraph are present. If the aggravating factors are present the minimum fine is between $1,000.00 and $2,000.00. If your second DUI conviction is within five (5) years from your first, you will also have your driver’s license revoked for five (5) years but may apply for a hardship reinstatement after one (1) year.

Third Offense DUI in Florida
If your third DUI offense in Florida is within ten (10) years from a prior conviction, you will be required to serve at least thirty (30) days in jail. The Court does not have discretion to allow you to serve your sentence in a residential alcoholism or drug abuse treatment program.

You will also receive a minimum fine of between $1,000.00 and $2,500.00 unless the aggravating factors discussed in the previous paragraph are present. If the aggravating factors are present the minimum fine is at least $2,000.00. If your third DUI conviction is within five (5) years from your first, you will also have your driver’s license revoked for ten (10) years but may apply for a hardship reinstatement after two (2) years.

Four or more DUI Offenses in Florida
Your fourth or more DUI offense in Florida will result in a prison sentence of up to five (5) years. You will also receive a minimum fine of $1,000.00 unless the aggravating factors discussed in the previous paragraph are present. If the aggravating factors are present the minimum fine is not less than $2,000.00. You will also have your driver’s license revoked permanently without possibility of a hardship reinstatement.

As you can see there is a wide range of charges and sentences that can be imposed on you if you are caught DUI in Florida. To get the best results, contact one of our sponsoring attorneys below or at the top of this page.

DUI Law: Massachusetts DUI Penalties

2006-05-15T11:14:00.000-04:00

In Massachusetts, you can be convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) if your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is .08 or greater. If you are under twenty one (21) you can be convicted of DUI if your BAC is .02 or greater. You may also be convicted of DUI if the State Attorney can show that your normal faculties were impaired by alcohol at the time you were driving (i.e. slurred speech, can’t walk in a straight line, etc.).

First Offense DUI in Massachusetts
Your first DUI offense in Massachusetts can result in a sentence of up to two and one half (2 ½) years in a correctional facility. You will receive a minimum fine of between $500.00 and $5,000.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for one (1) year which may be reinstated after three (3) months for work or education related driving and six (6) months for general hardship driving.

Depending on the Judge and your lawyer, you may receive an alternative punishment of probation with mandatory participation in an alcohol treatment program and have your license suspended for between forty five (45) and ninety (90) days.

Second Offense DUI in Massachusetts
Your second DUI offense in Massachusetts can result in a sentence of between sixty (60) days and two and one half (2 ½) years in prison. You will be required to spend at least thirty (30) days in prison. You will receive a minimum fine of between $600.00 and $10,000.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for two (1) years which may be reinstated after six (6) months for work or education related driving and one (1) year for general hardship driving.

Depending on the Judge and your lawyer, you may receive an alternative punishment of two (2) years probation with fourteen (14) days confined treatment in an alcohol treatment program and have your license suspended for up to two (2) years.

Third Offense DUI in Massachusetts
Your third DUI offense in Massachusetts may be deemed a felony and can result in a sentence of between one hundred eighty (180) days in jail and five (5) years in a state prison. You will be required to spend at least one hundred fifty (150) days in jail. You will receive a minimum fine of between $1,000.00 and $15,000.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for eight (8) years which may be reinstated after two (2) years for work or education related driving and four (4) years for general hardship driving.

Fourth Offense DUI in Massachusetts
Your fourth DUI offense in Massachusetts may be deemed a felony and can result in a sentence of between two (2) years in jail and five (5) years in a state prison. You will be required to spend at least one (1) year in jail. You will receive a minimum fine of between $1,500.00 and $25,000.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for ten (10) years which may be reinstated after five (5) years for work or education related driving and eight (8) years for general hardship driving.

Fifth Offense DUI in Massachusetts
Your fifth DUI offense in Massachusetts may be deemed a felony and can result in a sentence of between two and one half (2 ½) years in jail and five (5) years in a state prison. You will be required to spend at least two (2) years in jail. You will receive a minimum fine of between $2,000.00 and $50,000.00 not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license revoked for life with no possible reinstatement for hardship.

DUI Law: Texas DUI Penalties

2006-04-15T10:37:00.000-04:00

In Texas, you can be convicted of Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) if your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is .08 or greater. You may also be convicted of DWI if the State Attorney can show that your normal faculties were impaired by alcohol at the time you were driving (i.e. slurred speech, can’t walk in a straight line, etc.).

First Offense DWI in Texas
Your first DWI offense in Texas may be considered a Class B misdemeanor and could result in a prison sentence of up to one hundred eighty (180) days in county jail. You may also receive up to $2,000.00 in fines not including surcharges, fees and assessments that double your fine. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for between ninety (90) days and one (1) year.

Second Offense DWI in Texas
Your second DWI offense in Texas may be considered a Class A misdemeanor and could result in a prison sentence of up to one (1) year in county jail. You may also receive up to $4,000.00 in fines not including surcharges, fees and assessments that double your fine. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for between one hundred eighty (180) days and two (2) years.

If your second DWI offense in Texas comes within five (5) years of a previous DWI conviction you will be required to have a breath analysis device installed in all your vehicles. You will also be required to spend at least five (5) days in jail and your driver’s license must be suspended for at least one (1) year.

Third Offense DWI in Texas
Your third DWI offense in Texas will be considered a third (3rd) Degree felony and could result in a prison sentence of up to ten (10) years in jail. You may also receive up to $10,000.00 in fines not including surcharges, fees and assessments. You will also have your driver’s license suspended for between one hundred eighty (180) days and two (2) years.

If your third DWI offense in Texas comes within five (5) years of a previous DWI conviction you will be required to have a breath analysis device installed in all your vehicles. You will also be required to spend at least five (5) days in jail and your driver’s license must be suspended for at least one (1) year.