1. Will I go to jail?? A first time DUI carries a maximum sentence of up to 6 months in jail, however this is rarely imposed. Generally, on a first time DUI, as long as there are no aggravating factors, you will not serve any additional jail time to what you have already served. Aggravating factors can be having children under the age of 14 in the car during the violation, speeding excessively, refusing to take chemical tests, injuring someone in an accident, etc. If your case is a typical, standard first-time DUI, then you probably don’t expect additional jail time with exceptions.
2. Will I lose my license?? A first-time DUI carries a mandatory license suspension. There are two possible ways for this process. Your license can be suspended after a DMV hearing loss or a DUI conviction in court. This can range from a 30-day suspension, followed by a 5-month restricted license following a DMV hearing loss to a 6-month restricted driver’s license following a DUI court conviction. The restricted leave is only to, from, and during the scope of your employment and to and from your required alcohol classes.
3. how much are the fines? Typically, the total fines and fees a person will pay for first-time DUI is $2,064.00. These fines can be paid in full or through a payment plan at the court collection office.
4. Will I have to take classes?? A person must complete a 3 or 9 month alcohol program. The level of the program is generally based on the person’s blood alcohol concentration. If the person’s level is between 08% and 19%, that person must complete the 3-month program; however, if the person’s level is 20% or higher, they must complete a 9-month program. .
5. How long will this stay on my record?? A DUI conviction will remain on your record for prosecution purposes for ten years from the date of the offense. If you are convicted of one or more DUIs within the next 10 years, you will be counted as a multiple offender and subject to higher fines, more jail time, longer license suspension, etc. and if it’s a fourth offense or more, he’ll most likely be charged as a felony, which could land him in state prison.
Please remember that all of the answers above are based on what happens with most average first time DUI cases, however each case is looked at differently and the results could be higher than what is listed depending on the circumstances of the individual cases.