Find Out How Harsh The Punishment For A First DUI Offense Can Be

In most states, a first offense charge of driving under the influence (DUI) is classified as a misdemeanor. This classification is technically correct, but it can be a bit misleading. This is because a misdemeanor is a "minor" wrongdoing, but the consequences or punishments for a first time DUI conviction aren't that minor. Here are some of the harsh sentences that your first time DUI conviction can attract:

One-Year License Suspension

Some states will only suspend your license for a few days for your first time DUI. For example, in Virginia, your license will only be suspended for a maximum of seven days for your first offense. However, some states, such as Georgia, can suspend your license for up to a year (yes, that's 12 months) for your first offense! This means you will not be able to drive your kids to school, drive to work, or drive anywhere for 12 months. You can imagine how devastating this can be to you if your job involves driving.

Two-Thousand-Dollar Fine

As you know, a DUI conviction attracts both administrative sanctions and criminal punishments. For example, the license suspension is an administrative sanction whereas the monetary fine is a criminal punishment. You might have heard of people getting fined a few hundred dollars after getting convicted, but that is actually in the low range. In some states, you can be fined as high as $2,000 for your first DUI offense. To make matters worse, you could go to jail or have a lien placed on your properties if you fail to pay the fine.

Six-Month Jail Time

Although many first-time DUI offenders don't end up in jail, the law hasn't ruled out the issue of jail time for first-time offenders. Indeed, all states prescribe a jail time of up to six months. You read that right: you can take a glass of wine, get behind the wheel, and end up with a six-month jail sentence even if it's your first time getting charged with DUI.

Over A Thousand Dollars on Ignition Interlock

Finally, an order to install an ignition interlock usually follows a DUI conviction in many states. The device locks your car's ignition, rendering you unable to drive if you are intoxicated. The offender bears the costs of installing, which include a one-time payment that can be as high as $150 and a monthly charge that can be as high as $80. If you are required to have the ignition interlock gadget for a year, which can happen in states such as Hawaii, you will end up spending over a thousand dollars on the device.

Considering the seriousness of these penalties, it makes sense to consult a DUI attorney for your DUI case even if it's your first offense.