With over one and a half million people arrested for DUI every year, it is by no means an uncommon charge. The first reaction most people have (after getting out of jail) is complete nervousness and fear. First things first, you're probably not going to have to serve jail time for a first offense. The bad news is you're in for a lot of frustration, hassle, time wasted, and you'll be spending a lot of your hard earned money.
The Car is Likely Impounded
Starting now, this article will ring like a cash register. The first thing anyone charged with a DUI is going to have to do is get their car out of impound. Needless to say, the impound lot can charge pretty much whatever they want to release your car. Expect to pay several hundred dollars.
Dealing with the DMV
Upon the charge of a DUI, the DMV is notified, and your drivers license will be suspended. In most states, you have ten days to appeal this decision. It is important to contact the DMV to find out when your dmv administrative hearing will be. At this hearing, it will be determined whether or not to suspend your drivers license.
Going to Court for a DUI
If you go to court without an attorney, then your sentence will likely be the standard for that state. Some common sentencing guidelines are as follows:
- Jail Time: You will be sentenced with anywhere between two and ten days in jail. However, you will likely be given the option to perform community service in lieu of jail time
- Court Fines: Court fines vary but are usually in the range of $1,000 to $2,000
- DUI School: Weekly DUI classes are usually required for 3-9 months
- Suspension of Driving Privilege
Depending on the circumstances of the arrest, whether an accident occurred, or anyone was injured, the sentence can vary widely.
Community Service
For the opportunity to serve the community, you will have to pay some more money. Fortunately for you, you will get your moneys worth by getting a lot of exercise on your weekends, picking up trash on the side of a freeway or performing some other type of labor.
DUI School
DUI school will likely be required before you can get your drivers license back. In these classes, you will watch videos about alcohol and it's effects on the human body. You will learn about how alcohol abuse can destroy a family, and how dangerous driving under the influence can be. This will cost you a few hundred more dollars.
Automobile Insurance After a DUI Conviction
Many popular insurance companies will not insure a driver convicted for a DUI. Those companies that do charge a serious premium. It is not uncommon for a drivers insurance premium to double or even triple after a DUI conviction.
Hiring an DUI Lawyer
A DUI charge is a serious situation, and as you can tell, a very expensive one. Many people are reluctant to talk to a DUI lawyer, assuming the charge is not that serious, and the cost of a DUI lawyer is unnecessary. Considering the average costs of a DUI charge can be $10,000 or more, talking to a lawyer about your charge is not only recommended, but can actually save on many of the expenses discussed above.
- If you need legal assistance with a DUI Charge, click here to talk to a DUI Lawyer, and find out what options you have. This website is for informational purposes only, and nothing stated here should be taken as legal advice.
