Felony DUI Causing Injury in Mississippi – All You Need to Know (2025)

The Miller Law Offices understands that if you are facing a felony DUI causing injury in Mississippi, you are up against a serious offense that has legal, financial, and personal consequences, making it vital that you understand the legal process and know what equipment is necessary to protect yourself throughout. A DUI becomes a felony in Mississippi when a driver’s action causes serious bodily injury to another party.

All You Need to Know When Facing a Felony DUI Causing Injury

A felony DUI causing injury in Mississippi is one of the most severe DUI-related charges that one can face, carrying with it significant financial, personal, and legal consequences to be aware of. Understanding the stakes and navigating the legal process is key if you are facing this situation.

The key elements of a felony DUI causing injury charge are that the driver was operating the vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol and that the driver’s action led to the accident that caused serious bodily harm. Serious bodily harm is understood to be injuries that cause serious risk of disfigurement, long-term loss of function, or even death.

Potential Penalties

The penalties for a felony DUI causing injury are serious and often tailored to the unique circumstances of each situation. In general, the penalties may include prison time, large fines, license revocation, restitution to victims, increased car insurance rates, and mandatory alcohol or drug education programs.

If you are facing this charge, there are still defense strategies available to you, given the circumstances of your case, that you can employ to fight for a fair result. A common defense includes challenging the BAC results, as these tests can be inaccurate or administered improperly, which can impact the results. Another defense may be to prove that the injuries were not directly caused by the defendant’s impairment but because of other factors like poor roads.

Steps to Take When Charged With a Felony DUI Causing Injury

There are key steps to take to support the success of your case when facing a felony DUI causing injury charge, including the following list:

• Work With a Trusted Attorney: There are lawyers who work specifically with felony DUI cases and understand the intricacies and special considerations that are necessary for navigating these cases. Ocean Springs felony DUI lawyers can evaluate the details and merit of your case, identify if there are holes and weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and evidence, and negotiate for reduced charges and penalties on your behalf. Working with a lawyer should not be undervalued as they can serve as a legal advocate throughout the entire process, addressing your concerns and answering questions as they come up.
• Gather Evidence: It is important to take time to collect all documentation related to your incident like medical reports, accident photos, and witness statements. Any evidence supporting your case can be essential for building your defense.
• Comply With Court Orders: Not meeting court requirements like failing to attend hearings or failing to comply with bail conditions can worsen your situation so it is vital to follow all court orders and expectations.

While facing a felony DUI causing injury in Mississippi, it is important that you take immediate action and develop a strategic approach. By taking time to thoroughly understand the charges you are up against, the specific penalties you are facing, and the available defenses you can employ, you are adequately preparing for the legal process that is ahead of you and taking a proactive approach that can only aid in the success of a fair and favorable result.

FAQs

Q: How Long Will a Felony DUI Stay on My Record in Mississippi?

A: In Mississippi, a felony DUI will generally remain on your record for five years and, in certain cases, may not be expungeable. A third, fourth, and all following DUI offenses are not eligible for expungement, which means they will stay on your record indefinitely. An expungement is only possible, if eligible, after serving a full sentence for the offense, paying all fees, fines, and court costs, and after adequate time has passed.

Q: What Is a Felony DUI in Mississippi?

A: A felony DUI in Mississippi is a more serious form of a DUI charge that is generally elevated because of aggravating factors and repeat offenses. A felony DUI carries serious and harsh penalties that often include long-term consequences. Penalties for a felony DUI can include prison time, fines, license revocation, mandatory programs like DUI schools and community service, and a long-term criminal record.

Q: How Likely Is Jail Time for a First DUI in Mississippi?

A: In Mississippi, how likely jail time is for a first DUI will depend on the specific factors influencing the severity of your case, but it is possible. While a first-time offender of a DUI may face lesser consequences than a repeat offender, there are factors that can escalate the case like an excessively high BAC level, if there was a minor in the vehicle, or if you were involved in an accident because of your blood alcohol concentration levels.

Q: Do You Need a Lawyer When Facing a Felony DUI Charge?

A: While it is not necessarily a legal requirement that you use a lawyer when facing a felony DUI charge in Mississippi, it may be very advantageous given the specific circumstances of your case. A lawyer can work on your behalf to ensure that you were treated fairly during and after your arrest and that your legal rights were upheld. They can help you develop a solid legal defense that may lessen the impact of penalties or dismiss the charge altogether.

Get in Contact With a Trusted Felony DUI Lawyer Today

Facing a felony DUI causing injury charge may feel hopeless, but you do have options, with one of those options being to meet with a lawyer who has experience in Felony DUI cases and can support you in navigating this challenging legal process. Reach out to the Miller Law Offices today to set up an initial consultation and learn how a Pass Christian felony DUI lawyer can support you through this time, ensure that your rights are protected, and fight for a fair outcome.

See Related Posts:

• First Offense DUI in Mississippi
• DUI Laws in Mississippi
• How To Expunge a DUI in Mississippi?