So, you’ve been charged with a DUI in Woodbury. What does it mean and what can you expect next?
To put it simply, getting a DUI means you were caught driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. That’s what DUI stands for.
It’s also known as driving while intoxicated (DWI) or operating under the influence (OUI). These three acronyms all mean the same thing.
Typically, a DUI involves being caught driving a car or truck while under the influence, but it can also apply to other vehicles like ATVs, golf carts, and bicycles.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the consequences of getting a DUI, including:
– The likelihood of going to court
– The importance of having a lawyer
– The possibility of losing your driver’s license and car
– The potential for fines and jail time
– The impact on your car insurance rates and policy
What happens if you’re pulled over for a DUI?
In most cases, a DUI begins with a police officer pulling you over due to erratic or impaired driving. The officer then conducts sobriety and chemical tests, such as the Breathalyzer, to determine your blood-alcohol concentration (BAC). These tests determine if you were driving under the influence.
It’s important to note that you can still be charged with a DUI even if you were pulled over for a reason unrelated to impaired driving, as long as your BAC is 0.08% or higher.
Do you have to go to court after a DUI?
The next steps after getting a DUI depend on the severity of your case. Generally, after your arrest, you’ll have to go to court for your arraignment, where you’ll be formally charged with a crime and respond with a guilty or not guilty plea. You may also request a jury trial at this point.
Do you need a lawyer if you get a DUI?
While it may not be necessary to have a lawyer for your arraignment, it is advisable to have one to guide you through the process afterwards. A lawyer can help you decide whether to plead guilty, go to trial, or seek a plea bargain. Hiring a lawyer can also save you money, potentially reducing your car insurance rates by up to $4,000 if they can get your charges reduced or dropped.
Do you lose your license when you get a DUI?
If you’re charged with a DWI or DUI, it is likely that your driver’s license will be suspended. The arresting officer will typically take your license and give you a temporary one until a decision is made about your suspension by the court or DMV. Refusing to provide a blood, breath, or urine sample when arrested can also result in automatic license suspension for a period of three to twelve months, depending on the laws of your state.
Do you lose your license immediately after a DUI?
Whether or not you lose your license immediately after a DUI depends on your circumstances. Typically, the police officer who arrests you will confiscate your license and give you a temporary one until your hearing. However, there are instances where your license is automatically revoked, such as if you don’t request a hearing or refuse to provide a blood, breath, or urine sample when arrested.
How do you get your license back after a DUI?
The most common way to regain your driver’s license after a DUI is to complete an education, therapy, or treatment program. However, completing the program does not guarantee that you’ll be allowed to drive again. If you have multiple DUI convictions, you may lose your license for an extended period of time or even permanently due to habitual offender laws in some states.
Can you lose your car because of a DUI?
If this is not your first drunk-driving conviction in Woodbury, the judge may order that your car be impounded for a certain period of time.