The illegal act of driving while under the influence of alcohol or other narcotics is referred to DWI. DWI stands for Driving While Intoxicated and an individual charged with one, can have some serious repercussions, especially if this isn’t their first offense. DWI Charges and other penalties, however, will not take effect until the individual is proven guilty. Once convicted, the penalties will then take place.
Penalties of a DWI
Every state has their own set of laws for penalties. Along with laws, the circumstances surrounding the arrest play a role in what the penalty will be. Compiled below are a few examples of penalties.
- Jail time– In every state, the individual is charged with a misdemeanor for their first offense, and it is punishable by up to 6 months minimum of jail time. Depending on certain circumstances, the amount of jail time may increase.
- Fines– Along with jail time, courts will impose large fines for a DWI. The charges may range anywhere from $500 to $2,000 or more.
- Suspended driving privileges– Many states will suspend a first offender’s license for 90 days, and increase the time to 1 year for the second offense, with 3 years for a third offense.
- Cancellation of auto insurance– Auto insurance companies may choose to cancel the individual’s policy or raise the rates to a much higher amount due to the individual’s driving record. DWI’s will remain on their driving record for many years, making it challenging to obtain affordable auto insurance.
What to do Next
After the individual is released from jail they may wonder what to do next. By evaluating his or her case, they can explore their different options on what the next step is. Following is a list of options in which the individual can choose from.
- Plead guilty as charged. If chosen, there will not be a trial to attend to, and conviction of the crime and sentencing takes place.
- Try to reduce the DWI Charges by plea bargaining.
- Go to trial before a judge.
- Go to trial before a jury.
Act Now
While not mandatory, it is best to hire an experienced DWI attorney or lawyer to represent the individual when they go to court. Chrisrichardattorney.com is an excellent source for obtaining information regarding details about DWI’s, as well as gathering information for hiring a legal representative. You can also visit them on Facebook for more information.
