The consequences of a DUI charge can vary dramatically from one case to another. There are several charges one can face if arrested for driving under the Influence (DUI). The penalties you may encounter depend upon the specific facts and circumstances of each case.
There are nearly infinite possibilities of charges that may result from a DUI conviction. Even some minor charges could have a severe impact on the rest of your life.
Regardless of the type of charges you face, the most critical thing to do after a conviction is to contact a proven DUI defense attorney in Portland with successful DUI case experience.
Types Of DUI Charges
People accused of driving under the influence can face different consequences based on the circumstances of their arrest. Whatever the DUI charge you are dealing with, it is essential to take swift legal action. Strict deadlines often exist in some cases.
Therefore you should contact a law firm, as soon as possible.
Some of the most common DUI charges you have to deal with include:
Misdemeanor DUI
Misdemeanor charges are for first or second DUI offenses. These charges are the case when there aren’t many explanatory circumstances. The misdemeanor charges result from having a blood alcohol content great than .08% for an adult. Some states have lower, stricter limits for younger or less experienced drivers. Commercial drivers also face higher values when it comes to driving under the influence.
The BAC can be measured by the breathalyzer machines used all over Portland. A .08 BAC means that 8% of a person’s total blood content is pure alcohol. As long as an individual is at .08 percent or greater, they will be considered guilty of a DUI.
Felony DUI
A felony DUI charge happens on your third or fourth offense. If there are other charges or factors associated with your case, you can face a felony charge. Plus, if somebody was injured or killed because of your DUI, you’re likely going to be facing felony charges.
Penalties related to a felony DUI causing injury or death can include a minimum jail time of 180 days, fines, penalties and assessments, a driver’s license revocation, and a DUI school.
Every state has its own rules regarding this, but a few reasons why it might happen include:
- If it’s a driver’s third (or later) offense
- If the driver’s BAC level is .16% or higher
- If the driver causes injury or death to another person
- If there were children in the vehicle
- If the driver has a restricted or invalid license
Zero Tolerance Laws: Underage DUI
The underage drivers charged with DUI have to face strict zero-tolerance laws. If you’re under 21 years and have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) between 0.02 percent and 0.08 percent, you will encounter administrative penalties for your first, second, third, or subsequent offense.
You can get a driver’s license suspension and a fine for your first offense. Each successive offense carries stricter penalties.
High BAC Value
Cases involving high BAC are considered much more complicated than low BAC. You may have to face additional penalties based on the amount of alcohol in your system and your first, second, or third offense. If blood alcohol is more than twice the legal limit, you can count on facing stricter sentencing. Many states have enhanced penalties for higher BAC levels.
Crashing While Intoxicated
If you are involved in a car accident while intoxicated, it can further complicate your case. You could be facing additional charges of endangerment or murder if somebody is injured or killed because of your drunk driving. It is practical to speak with your criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
Driving on Suspended, Revoked, or Denied Driver’s License
A critical penalty for a DUI charge is getting your driver’s license revoked or suspended. If caught driving with a suspended, revoked, or denied driver’s license, you may have to face additional criminal charges. You can apply for a hardship license to get to and from work or other important places during the case.
Underage Possession & Transportation of Alcohol
Underage possession and transportation of alcohol can also increase additional charges to your case. Minors may also have to face a zero-tolerance policy for impaired driving and strict sentencing for underage possession and transportation of alcohol.
When to Call a DUI Attorney in Portland?
After a DUI arrest, you should speak with a skilled criminal or DUI defense attorney as soon as possible. A professional lawyer can help you regardless of the type of charges and penalties you are facing. The Trilogy Law Group has a team of skilled criminal defense attorneys with vast experience, always willing to help you; start with an immediate case consultation.
