How Long Do You Stay in Jail For Drunk Driving?
Generally speaking, the maximum length of time you could spend in jail for driving under the influence (DUI) is determined by a combination of state and local laws. Some states have more stringent laws, while others do not. While the average length of time you could spend in jail for a first DUI is fairly short, the length of time you could spend for a subsequent DUI could be much longer. Some states do not punish first offenses at all.
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The first DUI is considered a Class 1 misdemeanor, so a first offense will not have you serving much time in jail. You may face fines of up to $1500, as well as license revocation for up to one year. However, some states have laws that allow you to serve jail time if you undergo a rehab program.
If you do end up going to jail for a DUI, you will likely spend a day or two in a jail cell. You may be held in a big cell or an individual one, depending on the jurisdiction. You might be given a breath test. The staff at the jail will decide whether or not to bring in a doctor.
The court will also decide if you are guilty or not. You might be subject to probation or community service. You can also face the prospect of spending a few months or years in prison for a felony DUI, or even an additional year if you have a prior DUI conviction. There are also options to avoid jail. You might be able to post bail, or a family member might be able to help you out.
You can also avoid a second DUI conviction if you can prove that you have completed a DUI rehabilitation program. A rehab program can involve inpatient or outpatient treatment. Some rehab programs include a sober living facility.
The length of time you could spend in jail for DUI is also influenced by the amount of alcohol in your blood. Those with a high blood alcohol concentration may spend more time in custody than those with a low BAC. Those with a high BAC might also be required to take a breath test. You might be given a DUI-specific license or a license that can be renewed for a period of up to four months after your conviction.
The best way to avoid a DUI is to hire an expert attorney. An attorney with experience in DUI law can tell you which of the many defenses you have are most effective. They will also tell you which options are available to you and how likely you are to win in court. Some of the most effective defenses include legal technicalities, such as a driver’s license that is revoked for some time, or a court order that requires you to take medications.
The best way to find out how long you can expect to spend in jail for a DUI is to consult an attorney who specializes in DUI law. Even if you have a DUI, you can still avoid jail time, so you should take action now.