It may seem like something you believe will never happened to you, but do you know what would happen if that extra drink with friends gets you arrested for DUI?
After a DUI arrest, you can expect several processes to happen as you try to get your driving privileges back and keep inevitable costs as low as possible. Here is what to expect following your first DUI arrest.
Once arrested
After an officers arrests you, you will be taken to a police station to be booked, fingerprinted and have a mugshot taken. You will most likely be held for a period of time before you are able to leave.
Court appearance
You will receive a summons that will inform you when you are scheduled to appear in court. During your court appearance you will be able make a plea and fight the case if you believe there was a problem with your arrest.
Loss of driving privileges
Even for first time convictions, you can expect to have your driving privileges taken away even if it is for a short time. There are occasions however when you may be allowed to drive to certain destinations like work or school while under a suspended license. If during your arrest you refused to take a sobriety test, you could face more harsh penalties.
Pay a fine
Your DUI sentence will include that you pay a fine for the offense. Besides a minimum amount that is set by the state, other penalties could be added on. Some examples could be the level of your blood alcohol level at the time of your arrest, endangering a child, property damage or injuring someone.
Probation and driving school
Though you did not serve any jail time, it is likely you will receive a probation sentence. Typically, you can expect to pay a fee to cover the cost of supervising and administering your probation sentence. There will also be a fee you will have to pay to attend a drunk driving school. This school is usually required if you want to get your driver’s license back.
Alcohol evaluation
The court will want to make sure you do not have an alcohol problem and return to the road. To be sure of this, you will need to speak to a counselor who will evaluate you. If the evaluator determines you have a dependence on alcohol, you may have to attend a treatment program before you are allowed to drive again.
DUI laws tend to change constantly, if you are wondering what you can expect after your first DUI, be sure to monitor if there are any new state laws that could affect you.