DUI is a serious offense, and those convicted of it can face any number of punishments. Some are sent to rehabilitation, while others face jail time and loss of their drivers’ licenses. Nearly everyone convicted of DUI is responsible for paying a number of fines. Less common than fines, but still quite common, is probation following a DUI sentencing. DUI probation means that, for a specified time period after your conviction, you must not commit any new crimes, or the punishments for them will be more severe than they would be under other circumstances. Probation is the court’s way of saying that they are trusting you to avoid criminal activity, and should you not live up to those expectations, you will lose even more privileges than you would have otherwise.
DUI Probation: What to Expect
DUI probation does not follow any hard and fast rules; the terms of the probation will differ greatly depending on a number of factors.
- It may be assigned to take place after a jail sentence, or it may simply begin after the conviction is finalized.
- It may last a number of months, or even years.
- The severity of your offense, the number of offenses you have, the conditions of the arrest, the state in which you live, and your personal status can all affect the probation severity and duration.
During your DUI probation, just like with any other criminal probation, you’ll also be required to meet with an assigned probation officer, typically on a regular weekly or monthly basis. The probation officer will keep a running record of you and ensure that you meet all conditions of probation, such as attending rehabilitation meetings or driving classes, obtaining or continuing employment, or any other demands laid down by the court judge.
Getting Through Probation... and On with Your Life
If you’re faced with DUI probation, it’s important to follow all instructions to the letter, and complete the tasks assigned to you. Probation isn’t pleasant, but those who are convicted of a DUI should be aware that completing the probation, no matter how long it lasts, is the single quickest way to begin the process of putting the DUI in the past.
Any mistakes made on probation will be so enhanced in their punishment that your criminal record can quickly multiply in severity and size, and become a serious problem for you in the future. On the other hand, a DUI on your record certainly isn’t a positive thing, but completing your probation as requested will show any future employers (or anyone else who checks your background) that you repented of your crime and did your best to move forward in a positive way.
Getting Help
An experienced DUI lawyer may be able to help you convince a judge to give you DUI probation as a sentence instead of jail time, depending on the severity and nature of your DUI charges. It is very important you consult with an attorney as soon as you are charged with DUI so you can protect your rights, minimize your damages and understand all your options.
