Imagine you’re driving your car and a police officer pulls you over for DUI. The first thought that comes to mind is, “How likely is jail time for first DUI?” No need to panic. Generally, it is unlikely to go to jail for your first DUI in most states.
However, there are also other factors that might turn the table. In this post, we’ll look at all of the options and remedies for a first DUI charge.
What is a First Offence DUI?
A “first offense DUI” is a circumstance in which a person is accused for the first time with Driving Under the Influence (DUI). DUI is the act of driving a vehicle under the influence of drug or alcohol to the point where one’s ability to drive the vehicle safely is affected. DUI is a major criminal offense in all states.
A BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) of.08 or above qualifies as drunk driving and is illegal. Prepare to be taken into custody with DUI if it is .08 or more than that. To bring charges for a DUI, a number of tests are performed.
A coordination test, a verbal test, and, most significantly, a breathalyzer test are all examples of roadside testing. Your blood and breath alcohol levels will be determined by these tests. You are not required by law to take these tests. But it will result in an instant suspension of your license.
Although you were not driving at that moment, you might be charged with a first offense DUI for physically controlling the car. Also, if legal or prescribed medications affect your ability to drive, you should not drive.
How likely is jail time for first DUI?
Once you are arrested for DUI, you will probably be locked up until your BAC is zero. Based on the quantity someone has drunk, this may be a few of hours or a whole day. In most cases, a first offense without any prior criminal record is unlikely to end up in jail.
For repeat offenders, DUI accusations get increasingly serious, and the consequences become harsher. However, this does not mean that a first offense DUI is insignificant. The chance that you may go to jail for a first DUI charge is determined by various factors, including the rules of the state where the crime happens, the conditions of the DUI, and any additional elements related.
If the BAC is much higher than the legal limit, the possibilities of jail time grow. Additional factors include being involved in an accident, causing injuries, carrying a kid, or refuse taking a breathalyzer test. Judges have discretion in sentence as well. Their conclusions may differ depending on circumstances such as the defendant’s cooperation and desire to seek treatment.
If someone was injured or killed as an outcome of your drunk driving, you will almost certainly be prosecuted with a murder charge and sentenced to imprisonment. Another element that will affect the judge’s judgment is causing significant property damage.
When a minor is arrested for DUI, the penalties can be severe. Minors with a BAC of.02 are regarded to be driving under the influence, as minors are not permitted to alcohol.
What Happens with Your First DUI?
DUI charges may be handled differently in different states or countries. Drivers convicted of a DUI face additional penalties in addition to jail time. You might face a fine, probation, community service, alcohol treatment, mandatory DUI classes, and other penalties.
On addition, the court may order you to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on your car. Before permitting you to start your car, an IID analyzes your blood alcohol concentration (BAC).
Following your first DUI crime, your license is likely to be suspended. In fact, in many circumstances, your license will be suspended automatically as soon as you are arrested.
Will a DUI go on my record?
DUIs are recorded on your criminal record. These offenses may be used against you when you are charged with another DUI. If you wonder how long does a DUI stay on your record, you should know that with more DUIs you may risk additional jail time. A second minor DUI may result in a year in jail.
Your car insurance premiums will definitely rise as a result of your DUI record. Additionally, if you are a professional driver, a license suspension will severely affect you.
Should I Plead Guilty to First DUI?
Plead guilty means you are agreeing to acknowledge guilt to the DUI in return for the prosecutor suggesting less severe punishments. Pleading guilty can keep you out of jail. However, the issue should not cause any accidents or severe injury.
If you are unwilling to admit guilt, you might go to court and seek the judge to dismiss the accusations.
Should I Get a Lawyer for My First DUI?
Yes, if you have been charged with a DUI, you should get a lawyer. A good DUI attorney is familiar with the local laws and legal procedures. They can offer you the greatest legal counsel and seek to reduce the consequences you face, including as fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
How likely is jail time for first DUI – FAQs
Will I go to jail for first DUI?
It is unlikely to go to jail because of first DUI
How much fine I have to pay for my first DUI?
For first DUI, fine can be ranged $500 to $2000
What is the legal limit for drunk driving?
The legal limit of BAC is 0.08
Will DUI affect driving record?
Most of the time it will.
How expensive is a DUI lawyer?
The cost of legal services can range from $1000 – $8000