Waveland DUI Lawyer
Waveland DUI Attorney
The reality of facing a driving under the influence (DUI) charge in Mississippi can be daunting, especially with the potential to face jail time, education programs, community service, and fines. If you’re in this situation, you need a skilled Waveland DUI lawyer who can protect your rights and fight back against your charges.
How Does Mississippi Define a DUI?
It is illegal to drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol in the state of Mississippi, just like every other state. A DUI may happen when a driver is pulled over in a traffic stop and fails a field sobriety test. They may also be charged with a DUI if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is at 0.08% or higher, even if they are not showing visible signs of impairment.
Implied Consent
In Mississippi, if you are applying for a driver’s license, you consent to undergo chemical testing such as breath, blood, or urine tests if you are lawfully arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. If you refuse to comply with these tests, that can come with additional consequences, including automatic license suspension. It may also be used against you in court.
Potential Penalties for a DUI Conviction
Mississippi law establishes a five-year “lookback” or “washout” period when determining the severity of a DUI offense. This means that to classify a DUI as a first, second, third, or subsequent offense, law enforcement will look at driving records within the previous five years.
A first and second DUI conviction is a misdemeanor, while a third and any subsequent offense will be classified as a felony.
First Offense
When an individual is convicted of a first-time DUI, they will face fines, a short stay in jail, and a license suspension. The convicted person will also have to attend the Mississippi Alcohol Safety Education Program (MASEP). They may also be put on probation and have to use an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle for a certain period. The aid of a lawyer is crucial after committing a first DUI, as they can work to minimize the impact of a conviction or help expunge criminal records.
Second Offense
A second DUI offense in Waveland, Mississippi comes with significantly harsher penalties than the first offense. A convicted individual could face a longer term in jail, be required to pay higher fines and have their license suspended for a longer period. They may also be required to do community service and/or participate in a substance abuse evaluation. Most likely, they will be required to use an IID for a while.
Enhanced Penalties
There are additional factors that could enhance the penalties for a DUI offense, including:
- Child Endangerment: If there is a minor in the vehicle during a DUI, penalties can be increased substantially.
- Causing an Accident: If the DUI causes an accident, especially if it results in injuries or fatalities, the penalties will be increased. This could escalate to felony charges, like manslaughter, which will come with much longer prison sentences.
How a DUI Will Impact Your Future
A DUI is one of the most common offenses committed every year in the United States. It can happen to people who would otherwise not commit any crimes. Often, these individuals simply make mistakes without thinking. However, even a spur-of-the-moment lapse in judgment can leave ongoing repercussions throughout your life.
License Revocation
After a DUI conviction, individuals could face driver’s license suspension for a number of years. Not being able to drive yourself around can mean difficulties in getting to work, running errands, going to school, picking up your children, seeing friends, and more. If your license is not suspended, you might have to install an IID in your vehicle.
Financial
All DUI convictions come with fines and legal fees, which can quickly add up and put a burden on your current and future finances. It will also increase your car insurance premiums. Depending on the other penalties you might suffer, you may have to take time off work, which means a loss of income on top of these other difficulties.
Employment and Professional Relationships
Sometimes, employers may terminate your employment if you are convicted of a DUI, especially if your job involves driving or requires a clean driving record. Prospective employers may also hesitate to hire you because of your conviction.
Educational and Professional Licensing
If you are a student, a DUI conviction can mean disciplinary action from your school. For those with professional licenses, there may be investigations into whether their license may be revoked.
Personal Relationships
The stress and consequences of a DUI can cause strain on your relationships, which could lead to rifts in your family and social network.
Jail Time and Probation
Depending on how severe the offense was and your prior criminal record, you could face jail time. You may also be placed on probation, which can require you to meet certain obligations, including drug and alcohol education and treatment.
Travel Restrictions
Many countries, such as Canada and Mexico, limit entry to those with a DUI conviction. Border patrol agents and airport security may ask about your criminal record, and you may be subject to additional searches and questioning. Your visa application may be denied as well, or you may be required to obtain a waiver or special permit, which includes more paperwork and fees.
Get Legal Help
The Role of a Mississippi DUI Defense Lawyer
DUI charges in Mississippi are serious and life-altering. Choosing a skilled DUI defense lawyer can significantly impact the results of your case. They can contest the legality of the traffic stop, the arrest process, or any searches that were conducted.
At the Miller Law Offices, our team understands Mississippi’s specific DUI statutes, procedures, and case law. We can thoroughly investigate your case, build a strong defense strategy that is tailored to your situation, and work to minimize the penalties you are facing.
Reach Out to an Experienced Waveland DUI Lawyer
DUI charges can have severe and long-lasting consequences. If you or a loved one has been charged with a DUI in Waveland, Mississippi, contact the Miller Law Offices right away.
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