Recovering Your Reputation

Going through the judicial process of being accused of driving under the influence is never pleasant. Not only is the whole experience quite humiliating, but there are consequences you can potentially face when a judgment is decided on. Be aware of what those potential consequences can be for a DUI.

Non-Legal Consequences

There are a lot of big and little things that can happen due to a DUI conviction. Expect your car insurance premiums to go up quite a bit, or potentially have your insurance provider cancel the policy. Losing your policy is more likely if you have your driver's license suspended as a result of the DUI.

Also, many jobs will be off limit in the future if they are related to driving. This can be very problematic if you are currently a professional bus driver, but you could find yourself banned from driving for ride-sharing services or anything else that requires a car.

Jail Time

While DUIs are considered misdemeanors, it does not rule out the possibility of jail. Even people receiving their first DUI can face a potential jail sentence, with the length being influenced by a person's blood alcohol level at the time of their arrest. Some parts of the country require a minimum amount of time in jail for DUIs,

For repeat offenders, they can face a longer sentence. In general, expect the punishment to get worse as the number of offenses increases.

Fines

Many states can decide to fine you for being convicted of a DUI, which can be an alternative sentence or required in addition to jail time. The fine itself can vary based on what state you are in.

Related Expenses

Also, there are many hidden costs associated with a DUI that you'll end up paying.This includes bail bond fee, court fees, towing fees, impound fees, license reinstatement fees, and paying for alternative transportation if your license is suspended. All of these fees can quickly add up, making a DUI cost several thousand dollars more than you anticipated.

If you find yourself being accused of a DUI, be sure you hire a lawyer that can help you out. You will want someone fighting on your side for a case like this, by presenting your case to the court in the best light possible. With the right defense lawyer on your side, you could end up getting your case thrown out or have the sentence reduced from what it could be.

For more information, contact a lawyer like Boehmer Law.