DUI is a severe criminal offense and anyone found guilty of the crime faces severe consequences. Have you been charged with a DUI? If so, you may be asking, “Is my life over? What are the penalties?” The penalties for driving under the influence of drugs include: hefty fines, suspension of your license, increased insurance premiums, and you may even go to jail. Heavy penalties associated with a DUI, with no trial involved, can cost more than $7,500. In case there is a trial, you could lose over $25,000. And things can get even worse if a DUI is a felony! If you have been arrested for an OWI and need an OWI defense lawyer, call our office at (317) 676-4747.
Also, when you break any DUI law, you may find yourself losing your license. It can complicate your movement ability. So how does someone get their life back on track after they are caught driving while drunk?
Life After A DUI
If you are convicted of an OWI or DUI, there are long-term penalties. The incipient steps to recovering from a DUI obstinacy are irresistibly strong. These are the biggest challenges in the whole process of bouncing back to life after the DUI.
The repercussions of driving under the influence are well documented. However, most people aren’t familiar with what life is really like after a DUI. If you have never been sentenced before for driving under the influence, it might feel like you will never recover, but it is possible to bounce back after a conviction. Also, seek treatment for alcoholism if there is a need to, and you will be back to living everyday life before you know it.
Penalties Of A DUI Arrest
When you get caught driving while drunk, you may face some serious consequences. A DUI is not a minor traffic violation. The penalties vary in severity depending on the nature of the arrest and your criminal history. Here are some examples:
- Immediate Arrest: The first thing that may happen when you get convicted for a DUI felony is that you are taken into custody. The law enforcers will bring you to the surrounding police station, and you will be fingerprinted. You will also have a mugshot taken, and possibly you will spend the night in jail. Once you get booked by the station, the police record your arrest. Later on, the court determines your sentence.
- Background Checks: After a DUI, it can become hard to find a job. Whether the crime is a felony or misdemeanor, it must appear on a background check in Indiana. It makes getting a job is difficult enough. It is even worse when you have a DUI case on your record.
- Driver’s License Revocation: The worst thing most drunk drivers get worried about is losing their license. Is it possible for you to drive after an OWI conviction?
In many states, including Indiana, DUI’s offense comes with a mandatory suspension of your license. The rest lasts only two years, the very first time you get convicted for breaking DUI laws. Particularly if you fall under Indiana’s zero tolerance laws. It makes life difficult after a DUI arrest. You may lose your job if you need to drive there and do not have alternate transportation.
Undoubtedly, losing the ability to drive is also a loss of freedom. Life becomes challenging when the simplest of errands becomes a significant challenge to you. Fun activities, such as visiting friends or family, become more difficult too. However, it doesn’t imply the end of the world. You can use public transportation if available. Remember, you will eventually have your license back.
How Long Does A DUI Stay On Your Record?
In Indiana, your DUI driving suspension will stay on your record for a while. According to law, your suspension can remain on-record for up to 15 years. The crime charged will still be in your file even after you receive your license back. It gives insurance companies enough time to adjust their rates accordingly when they discover the arrest. If you have been arrested for an OWI or DUI in Indianapolis, call Indiana DUI attorney Kevin Karimi at (317) 676-4747.