5 Things You Can Expect After A DWI Arrest
Posted on: 15 December 2016
Driving while intoxicated (DWI) laws vary from state to state, but if you are arrested for suspected DWI, there are some things that you can expect no matter where you are located. DWI is a serious charge, and it is in your best interest to hire a DWI attorney, such as Thomas A Corletta, to represent you as soon as you can. You may experience the following after a DWI arrest:
Suspended License
It is not uncommon for a drivers license to be suspended at the time of a DWI arrest. The arresting officer may issue a temporary license that will be valid for a certain amount of time so you can request a DMV hearing. There is a chance that your attorney may successfully argue your case at the DMV, and you license will be re-instated. But if that does not happen, your license will be suspended for a set amount of time according to your previous driving record and how impaired you were at the time of arrest.
Increased Auto Insurance Rates
If you're convicted of a DWI, there is the possibility that your auto insurance company may cancel your policy and you will need to shop around for new auto insurance at a higher rate. Even if your insurance company does not drop you, your rates may end up increasing.
Alcohol Awareness Program
When a person is sentenced for a DWI conviction, it is not uncommon for the court to mandate alcohol awareness classes. You will be required to fulfill a set number of classes-- if you do not do so, your sentence will not be considered fulfilled and you may face additional punishment from the court.
Fines and Fees
Many DWI convictions include a set fine that must be paid to the court. Additionally, you will be responsible for paying for the alcohol awareness classes, and you will have to pay for your vehicle's ignition-lock breathalyzer if the judge ordered you to have one.
Jail Time
Many DWI's are misdemeanors, especially if it is a person's first offense. But jail time is still a possibility, and many states have laws that mandate that any person who is convicted of a DWI must do at least an overnight in jail.
Since DWI consequences are negative and can be long-lasting, it is very important to have an attorney working on your behalf. Even if your attorney can't get your charges dropped, he or she may be able to secure a sentence that is as favorable as possible.
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