The criminal penalties of a drunk driving case are often one of the most pressing things that people facing one of these charges have to worry about. There are many different ones that are possible. With each subsequent charge, the penalties get worse.
It is important for you to think about what is possible in your case as you are working on your defense. These penalties can have a great impact on your life so you need to try to prepare as best as possible from the start of your case. Here are a few of the penalties that are possible:
- Ignition interlock: A device that requires you to provide a breath sample before your vehicle will start
- Incarceration: Time in prison or jail based on the type of charge you are convicted of and the sentence the court hands down
- Vehicle impoundment: Possession of your vehicle by the court that is usually associated with repeat drunk driving offenses
- Driver’s license suspension or revocation: Takes away your ability to legally drive for the duration of the sentence
- Probation: You live in the community and report to a probation officer instead of having to go to prison or jail
- Community service: Having to work without pay on projects that benefit the community
Judges consider several factors when trying to determine a sentence. If this is your first drunk driving case, you should learn about any options that might be open to you, including DUI diversion programs. These often benefit first-time offenders who simply made a mistake that led to their criminal charges.