Have you been charged with a DUI but are not sure what the legal complications are? In this article, we address all the FAQs associated with DUI offenses.
What Is A DUI Offense?
DUI is an abbreviation for “Driving Under the Influence” and is commonly referred to as “drunk driving”. However, DUI does not distinguish between driving under the influence of alcohol or another drug. As long as you are operating a vehicle while impaired by a mind-altering substance – to the extent that it is unsafe – you have committed a DUI offense.
What Are the Penalties for Committing A DUI Offense?
The laws vary by state – however, you will almost definitely be taken to the nearest police station, where your photograph and fingerprints will be taken. Some states mandate jail terms even for first-time offenders: even though this is only a few days, the impact it will have on your record remains. Most states have mandatory jail terms for repeat offenders which last beyond a few days. If you are not sentenced to jail time, you will most likely receive a probation sentence.
Part of your penalty will also involve paying a fine, and the amount will differ depending on the circumstances of the offense, such as whether anyone was injured or killed by your actions or if property was damaged.
What Happens To The Offender’s Driving License?
This can be a concern for offenders who rely on their vehicle to get around and/or to make a living. In most states, offenders will have their license suspended for a period of time. Some states offer a “hardship license” which allows an offender to drive to and from work or school, but you can still expect your driving privileges to be limited.
What Are My Rehabilitation and Treatment Options?
Understandably, being convicted with a DUI offense can be incredibly distressing and you will want to do all you can to prevent reoffending. Fortunately, there are many rehabilitative treatment options available for both first-time and repeat offenders. They include a combination of:
- DUI telehealth sessions
- Alcoholics Anonymous meetings
- Individual or group therapy
- Medication
- Substance abuse treatment
For repeat or serious offenses, partial hospitalization, sober living homes or inpatient substance abuse treatment can also be recommended. However, first-time and mild offenses are usually not subject to inpatient treatment.
What Are My DUI Telehealth Session Options?
At Jackson-Bibby Awareness Group, we have specially curated DUI telehealth sessions targeted at first-time offenders, with the primary focus on reducing the chances of reoffending. We offer these telehealth sessions during the pandemic but will return to in person sessions when we are cleared to do so. Below is an overview of the DUI telehealth sessions for first offenders we offer:
- BAC below 0.08%: 12 hour program
- BAC below 0.15%: 3 or 4 month program
- BAC from 0.15% to 0.19%: 6 month program
- BAC above 0.2%: 9 month program
Rehabilitation from A Safe Distance
At Jackson-Bibby Awareness Group, we believe that rehabilitative treatment is the best way for DUI offenders to prevent reoffending. Taking the current pandemic into consideration, we are now offering DUI telehealth sessions as we believe it is the best way of observing social distancing while conducting treatment. However, please be rest assured that this is only a temporary measure and in-person sessions will resume as soon as we have been given the all clear. If there is anything you are unsure of, please feel free to take a look through our FAQs.
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