Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a very serious infraction and it can haunt you for years after the occurrence. Whether it is your career or personal relationships, a DUI conviction can put you in an exceedingly stressful situation. Knowing what may be at stake and how to defend yourself is vital in protecting your future.
Fines and Fees: A DUI conviction can be expensive, with fines, court costs, and other legal expenses adding up quickly.
Driving Privileges: you could lose your driver's license immediately. Driving to work, school or other needs is hence difficult.
Punishable by Jail time: Depending on the nature of the offence and any offences previously in place, you can face jail time.
Probation: An alternative to (or in addition to) imprisonment, which comes with numerous requirements and restrictions. This is often combined with very rigid requirements to comply.
In addition to the immediate legal penalties attached to a DUI conviction, such as expensive fines and possible time in jail, you might have long-term fallout negatively affecting your personal background or professional reputation:
Obstacles to Employment: Having a DUI on your record can significantly impede your efforts in finding work, especially when tasked with drinking and driving offences — if you hope to hold down a job within certain industries that enforce impeccable driver histories or background checks.
Insurance Costs: This will greatly hike your auto insurance rates once you get convicted of DUI. In some cases, you might be cancelled by your insurance company altogether.
Personal life: A DUI can damage or even dissolve a personal relationship with loved ones, friends and by someone at the workplace.
The Trap of Restricted International Travel A DUI is a criminal offence in some countries.
If you've been charged with a DUI, make sure to at least do the following:
Hire an Attorney: A DUI attorney will be familiar with the legal system, able to determine what your possible defences are and work on reducing the consequences of being charged.
What Are Your Rights: If you are stopped, arrested and another, initiated on a DUI charge — the knowledge about your rights is necessary. Your lawyer can make sure these rights are held up in the legal system.
Alternative Sentencing: In some cases, the court may allow for alternative sentencing and substitute it with DUI school or community service. These are some options that may be able to minimize the sanctions.
Prepare for Tomorrow: A DUI conviction does not have to be the end of your world. By being proactive and going to counselling or entering a recovery program, you can show the court and also your prospective employers that you are serious about turning things around.
A DUI conviction is a serious matter that can have lasting consequences on your life. However, with the right legal support and a proactive approach, it is possible to protect your future and your rights. If you are facing a DUI charge, contact us at (626) 314-3595 to discuss your case and explore your legal options.