20060720

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

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.