Pass Christian DUI Lawyer

Pass Christian DUI Attorney

A DUI is a serious charge in Pass Christian that can have long-lasting legal and personal consequences for the offender, including fines, jail time, and a criminal record that can prevent them from getting jobs, housing, loans, and more. If you’ve been charged with DUI, a skilled Pass Christian DUI lawyer from the Miller Law Offices can work with you to protect your rights and your future.

Trusted DUI Representation in Pass Christian

Facing a DUI charge in Mississippi can be daunting, especially when you’re worrying about everything that’s at stake. At the Miller Law Offices, our team is committed to helping Pass Christian residents challenge DUI charges that threaten their livelihoods. We understand how overwhelming DUIs can feel and are prepared to help you navigate every step of your case, all while providing aggressive legal representation.

What Is a DUI in Mississippi?

A driver can be charged with a DUI in Mississippi if they are found driving a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, street drugs, prescription medications, or other substances. When a driver is impaired, they lack proper judgment, reaction times, and motor skills, ultimately making them a danger to the road.

The amount of alcohol a driver over 21 is allowed to have in their system when driving is called the blood alcohol concentration or BAC. In Mississippi, the legal blood alcohol concentration limit is 0.08%, which means even if a person does not feel or behave like they are drunk, they can still be charged with DUI if their blood alcohol concentration is over 0.08%.

How Do Police Determine Impairment in Mississippi?

To determine the amount of alcohol or drugs in a driver’s system, police officers commonly use several tests. There are field sobriety tests, which help law enforcement assess how impaired a person is through a series of exercises, like standing on one foot. These tests show officers how intact the driver’s balance, coordination, and ability to follow instructions are. If the tests lead to officers suspecting impairment, they will then perform a chemical test.

The most common chemical test is known as a breathalyzer. These tests have the driver blow into a device that tests how much alcohol is in their system. Breath tests only work for alcohol. For drugs or other substances, a blood test is usually required. It’s important to note that drivers have the right to refuse testing. While refusing field tests does not result in harsh penalties, refusing chemical tests can result in an automatic license suspension.

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Penalties for a DUI Conviction in Mississippi

In Mississippi, DUI laws mandate the suspension of a driver’s license immediately upon arrest for a DUI, although you may receive a temporary permit that allows you to drive until your court hearing. DUI penalties vary depending on factors like the driver’s age, whether they have a history of DUIs in the last five years, and if another person was injured or died in the accident. Common penalties include:

• First DUI Penalties: A first-time DUI offender has the strongest chance of securing a positive outcome for their case. First-time DUIs are classified as misdemeanors in Mississippi and can come with a fine of up to $1000, 120 days of suspended driving privileges, and up to 48 hours in jail. In some cases, judges may require the defendant to attend an alcohol safety program and a victim impact panel in lieu of jail time.
• Second DUI Penalties: Second DUI offenses within five years are still charged as misdemeanors in Mississippi, but they can’t be suspended or reduced. Fines can be up to $1500, and the driver’s license will be suspended for up to a year. In some cases, the court can order ignition lock restrictions instead of a suspended driver’s license. Sentences may also include up to six months in jail, substance abuse treatment, and up to six months of community service.
• Third DUI Penalties: A third DUI in five years is classified as a felony in Mississippi and can’t be suspended or reduced. Penalties include up to $5000 in fines and required incarceration for up to five years. A substance abuse treatment program may also be imposed, as well as interlock restrictions on driving privileges after the offender is released from prison.
• Underage DUI Penalties: Mississippi has a zero-tolerance policy for underage DUIs, which means the legal blood alcohol concentration for drivers under 21 is 0.02% instead of 0.08%. Penalties include a $250 fine, an alcohol safety course, going to a victim impact panel, and a driver’s license suspension.

FAQs

Q: How Much Do Most Lawyers Charge for DUI Representation in Mississippi?

A: The cost of hiring a lawyer for a DUI in Mississippi can vary depending on several factors. Those factors include the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s location and experience, and whether or not your case goes to court. Lawyers also have different payment structures, so make sure you discuss fees and costs when you meet with your lawyer for the first time.

Q: Do DUI Lawyers in Mississippi Take Payments?

A: Yes, in Pass Christian, Mississippi, some DUI lawyers take payments, depending on your case type and their fee structure. In some cases, lawyers charge a flat fee, while others charge an hourly rate and bill clients monthly. Some may require payment or partial payment upfront. There may also be options to get a loan to pay legal fees. To ensure you find a lawyer who is right for you, you should ask all questions about pricing and potential payment plans in your initial consultation.

Q: Should You Get a Lawyer for a First-Time DUI in Mississippi?

A: Yes, you should get a lawyer for your first DUI because even a first-time conviction can lead to hefty fines, jail time, and a criminal record that can prevent you from getting jobs and other benefits. An experienced attorney can represent you to the court and the Department of Public Safety and increase the chances of a favorable outcome in your case.

Q: How Can You Beat a DUI Charge in Mississippi?

A: You can beat a DUI in Pass Christian, Mississippi with a strong legal defense tailored to your case’s unique details. You should hire a skilled DUI lawyer who can help you determine which defense strategy is most effective for your situation. Then, you can work together to create a defense that aims to secure the most positive outcome possible in your situation. A DUI lawyer can help you understand your rights and protect them both in and out of court.

Experienced Pass Christian DUI Representation

If you’re facing DUI charges in Pass Christian, the team at Miller Law Offices has the experience, skills, and resources you need to fight for a positive outcome. Do not wait to contact us today to learn more about how we can represent you.