I'm a first time dui offender. What should I expect for judgment?

If you should find yourself in the unenviable position of being arrested for a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge, you will undoubtedly have many questions. For example you may ask yourself, "I'm a first time offender DUI. What should I expect for judgement?"

This is of course a normal reaction. Keep in mind that the penalties for those charged with DUI are going to vary depending upon many factors as well as the circumstances that led to your being arrested for the DUI in the first place. These factors will include such details as your level of intoxication, which is determined by your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), the local policies which dictate how to handle first time offenders and those guilty of DUI, and finally the skills and determination of the prosecutor assigned to your case.

It is not uncommon for those first time DUI offenders to have the penalties added to. For example, they will examine the speed you were traveling at the time of the arrest. If you were driving over the speed limit, this will affect the penalties you receive. If you refused to submit to a blood alcohol test that will also affect the penalties phase, as will having a minor (a child below 14 years of age) in the car at the time you were arrested.

However, if you are a first time DUI offender, you can count on the following consequences to follow:

1. Anywhere from 48 hours to 6 months jail time;
2. A fine which can range from $400 to $1,000, with additional penalty assessments being added to that;
3. Having your license suspended for up to 6 months;
4. Being forced to attend mandatory alcohol treatment programs; (If your BAC was less than .20%, you will be required to attend a 3 month treatment program. If your BAC was greater than .20% you will be required to attend a 6 month treatment program)

In addition to this, there is an Administrative Per Se Hearing (APS) which is conducted by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). They may impose additional penalties from those imposed by the court system outlined above.