I have a DUI hearing coming up. What should I expect?

In order to know for sure what you may be facing before entering a courtroom on DUI charges, you need to first assess the circumstances of your arrest.

• The state the offense took place in should be the first consideration, because each state has its own statutes regarding DUI or OWI arrests. 
• Secondly, the number of prior offenses of the same nature that are on your record will directly impact the consequences you may be facing. 
• If the offense is your first, no matter the state, you may be able to avoid jail time by agreeing to a one of several different programs, including house arrest or an Ignition Interlock Device, which won’t allow you to start your car without first passing a breath test.  

In any state, when a DUI arrest is made in, the offender will most likely have his or her driver’s license suspended for a minimum of six months,. Most states limit suspension time to a maximum of two years for a first offense. If the offense is your second or even third, or the DUI is associated with an accident that caused injury, you may be facing felony charges and could spend anywhere from 1 to 10 years in prison.

No matter the nature or the number of prior offenses, you will receive a fine of anywhere from $500 dollars to $15,000 depending on the circumstances of your case.

As you can see, the consequences and penalties are serious, and it is important to speak to a criminal defense lawyer as soon as you are charged with a DUI.