Misdemeanor DUI
When you are charged with DUI by Las Vegas metro police, it is important that you know whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony DUI charges. The differences can be complicated, so here are some tips for you as you and your DUI Attorney determine just what you are up against:
Misdemeanor Penalties
In the majority of cases, a DUI conviction carries misdemeanor penalties. This doesn’t mean they are not serious – a DUI of any kind on your criminal record is enough to hurt future employment or loan opportunities, and penalties can include up to $1,000.00 in fines, jail time, mandatory treatment, and/or community service. However, the consequences for felony DUI are much higher.
Another reason to fight a misdemeanor DUI charge is the fact that the Nevada DMV will suspend your driver’s license for a significant time period if you are convicted. The suspension can last anywhere from 45 days to three years, depending on the severity of your alleged offense. This suspension obviously makes it very difficult to keep a job and get around town.
When is DUI a Misdemeanor?
You will be charged with misdemeanor DUI if you meet the following criteria:
- The offense is your first or second DUI in a seven-year period.
- No one was hurt or killed in the incident.
- You have never been convicted of felony DUI.
Avoiding a Misdemeanor DUI Conviction
How can you avoid the penalties that a misdemeanor DUI conviction carries? At Weiner Law Group, we have helped many people just like you get out of their legal trouble in better shape than they thought possible. Many times, incorrect police procedures, faulty testing equipment, and shaky testimony allow us to get a case thrown out before it makes it to the courtroom. Other times, we can get a DUI charge reduced to something far less serious, like reckless driving.
Advice for Las Vegas Visitors
Many times, visitors who get arrested for drunk driving in Las Vegas think that they are stuck pleading guilty. They can’t return to the city weeks later to fight the charges in person, and they can’t think of any other way out of their situation. Fortunately, we can take care of your defense even if you can’t be present at your hearings and/or trial. We will keep in touch with you, letting you know how things are going and what information we need from you.