What happens if you get another DUI while on probation for your first DUI?

Being charged with a DUI while on probation is extremely serious. State laws commonly allow much harsher penalties to be imposed for a second DUI if it occurs within five or ten years of the first conviction. These state laws reflect the attitude that a person should learn from her mistakes. Repeat offenses suggest that an individual either is not taking the issue seriously or she has a complete disregard for the law.

The fact that you were on probation when you received the second charge means that it has probably been much less than five or ten years since your last conviction. It also means that the court gave you a break the first time. To obtain that break, you made certain promises, which you clearly violated. Most courts will not take this matter lightly.

There are chances that your probation will be revoked. When this happens, you could be placed on probation with even stricter terms or you could be sent to jail for the violation. This punishment may occur in addition to the punishments that you will face for your second DUI. Judges generally have a significant sentencing range in DUI cases; for an offense that resulted while you were on probation, there is a risk that you may receive penalties closer to the maximum than the minimum.

Just as the court will not take this matter lightly, you shouldn't either. A case such as this demands legal representation and you should contact an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible.