DUI Sentence
Depending on the facts surrounding your DUI case and your state’s or local municipality’s DUI laws, you could be facing some severe penalties if you are in fact convicted. That’s why it is imperative that you contact an experienced DUI defense attorney for representation! Sentencing takes place following a guilty verdict, and if you are found guilty, some of the penalties you may face could include heavy fines, the loss of your driver’s license and/or imprisonment. The judge could also sentence you to probation, community service, and may require you to participate in an alcohol awareness or drug treatment program.
What are some of the factors that could affect a DUI sentencing?
If you are found guilty of DUI, the judge will require you to appear in court at a later date for sentencing. During this time, he or she will read the charge against you and will make a decision of the penalties you’ll face based on a number of different factors. For instance, if this is your first DUI conviction, you’re likely to be punished less severely than if you are a repeat offender.
Another factor that could affect your sentencing is if there were any aggravated charges related to your DUI. An aggravated charge may be that you had a minor in your vehicle and that you were endangering the welfare of a child. Another example of an aggravated charge is if your blood alcohol content was significantly higher than your state’s legal limit. Speeding and reckless driving may also result in an aggravated charge and can play into your sentencing should you be convicted of DUI.
Each state also has what is known as an Implied Consent Law and you are found in violation of this if you refuse to take a chemical test. This is also something the judge may look for during sentencing. Zero Tolerance Laws affect those who are under the legal drinking age of 21 and the penalties for violating this law can be quite severe.
Obviously, DUI sentencing is something everyone wants to avoid. Being convicted of DUI is serious so make sure you fight for your rights by hiring an experienced DUI attorney!
