Hawaii DUI State Law

Under Hawaii DUI laws, individuals can fight their charges of DUI in a court of law. Hiring a Hawaii DUI lawyer is critical to this procedure since these laws can be quite intricate. Not any criminal attorney will do.

Hawaii DUI Law

Like all states, in Hawaii, a blood alcohol level of 0.08 warrants an arrest and likely conviction of driving while intoxicated. But, this is not all that can happen. Even if no blood alcohol level was taken, but there is evidence of impairment (such as swerving, personal appearance, or slurred speech) and individual may be charged and face Hawaii DUI penalties for being drunk.

In addition, a zero tolerance blood alcohol level of 0.02 percent is in effect for those under the age of 21. Any trace of alcohol can be punishable in a court of law in these individuals. The enhanced penalty of blood alcohol level in Hawaii is .15 percent. This means additional jail time, bigger fines and more severe limitations on driver's licenses, determined on a case by case basis.

Hawaii Look Back Period

Under Hawaii DUI laws, there is a look back period of five years. If there has been more than one conviction of DUI in the past five years, this escalates the charges and likely Hawaii DUI penalties for the individual.

Implied Consent

Implied consent laws exist in Hawaii. This law states that an individual who drives in the state automatically submits consent to a chemical test if required by a police officer to determine intoxication levels.

If you refuse this test, there are no repercussions for declining the test!

Hawaii DUI Laws For 1st Offense

The Hawaii DUI laws for first time offenders are harsh compared to some other states. This includes:

• Mandatory 14-hour minimum substance abuse rehabilitation program attendance. This must include counseling and education.
• 90-day suspension of driver's license. A lesser charge may be offered such as a restricted license after 30 days hard suspension has been completed, for work related purposes or to participate in substance abuse only.
• 72 hours of community service – or- no less than 48 hours, up to five days, of imprisonment – or- a fine of $150 up to $1000.
• Misdemeanor charge
  

Hawaii DUI Laws for 2nd Offense

The look back period for Hawaii is 5 years. Individuals who commit a second DUI within five years of a previous one will be faced with a second offense. This includes:

• Driver's license suspension for 1 year, up to 2
• Fines up to $1500
• 240 hours of community service or 5 to 14 days in jail.
• 14 hour substance abuse program is required.
• Misdemeanor charge
  

Hire A Hawaii DUI Lawyer

It is critical for individuals who are facing DUI charges to hire a specialized Hawaii DUI lawyer to handle their case. These professionals may be able to reduce charges or get them dropped. In addition, fines, jail time and driver's license limitations may be reduced.

• If you have been charged with a DUI in Hawaii, Submit Your Case for a Free Review from a skilled DUI Attorney.