What is the minimum penalty for a DUI in Kentucky?

Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal in every state and as such carries harsh legal penalties. The state of Kentucky has its own guidelines for prosecuting anyone who breaks these laws. If you’ve been charged with a DUI offense the minimum penalty for DUI in Kentucky are as follows:

• For a first offense DUI you face anywhere from 2 to 30 consecutive days of jail time, with the possibility of work release. If it’s your second DUI charge within 10 years, you could face anywhere from a week in jail to 6 months incarceration.
• A citation that ranges in value anywhere from a $200 dollar minimum to $500
• Your license could be suspended for a period of anywhere from 1 to 4 months
• You could be ordered to successfully complete a 90 day alcohol and drug treatment program, obtaining a certificate of graduation or completion
• You could also be ordered to serve a minimum of two days of community service (public works with no compensation) or a maximum of thirty

The penalties increase if you already have a DUI offense on your record or if there are any aggravating circumstances. 

As with any criminal charge, you may be able to have your penalties lessened with the help of a defense attorney, and most courts will recommend you to get one in DUI cases. You should consult with a lawyer as soon as possible after your DUI arrest to determine if you have options for a plea bargain or if you have any arguments you could use as a defense to DUI.