I was arrested for a DUI a second time in five years. Am I going to prison?

Penalties for a 2nd DUI offense can be far more severe than the penalties for a 1st DUI offense. All states in the US have severe penalties for DUI. However first time offenders are generally let off with a heavy fine unless they are charged with a felony DUI or your BAC is extremely high.

A second DUI offense can land you in prison. Generally a second DUI is a misdemeanor offense in most states. You can end up in prison for up to a year. In some state a second DUI is a felony and you can end up in prison for over a year. Besides having to spend time in prison, you will also have to pay heft fines. The fine for a first time offender is high. The fines for second DUI offense are even higher. Besides jail term and fine, a 2nd DUI offense can result in other penalties. You can be ordered to undergo rehabilitation and counseling. You may be ordered to do community service. In some states, your car can be impounded and sold by the state. Certain states have laws that require an ignition lock to be placed in your car. That’s not all. Even if you manage to avoid spending time in prison, your driver’s license will be suspended. This will make it difficult for you to move around. Even getting to work can become difficult. Remember with every DUI offense, your auto insurance rates will go up. A 2nd DUI offense will result in your auto insurance rates increasing significantly. Sometimes your auto insurance company may terminate your policy.

If you have been arrested for a 2nd DUI offense, consult with an experienced drunk driving attorney. The attorney can assist you fight the charges against you.