The criminal courts are supposed to hand down sentences that reflect the nature of a criminal offense at issue. State statutes dictate the sentencing guidelines for different criminal offenses. The law provides minimum and maximum penalties in many cases.
Motorists accused of driving under the influence (DUI) offenses may serve time in jail or may be subject to probation oversight. They may need to pay large fines and cover court costs. They are also at risk of losing their driver’s licenses, at least temporarily.
How long can a driver’s license suspension last after a DUI conviction?
Recent offenses can increase penalties
People who break the same law repeatedly face harsher punishments for subsequent offenses after the first. The penalties for a DUI increase if a driver gets arrested a second time within the state’s five-year lookback period.
After a first DUI conviction, or at least the only offense within the last five years, a driver faces a 12-month suspension. However, they can regain their license early if they complete DUI school and petition for reinstatement after 120 days.
A second offense within five years of the first can lead to a three-year suspension. Drivers can regain their licenses early by installing an ignition interlock device (IID) after serving 120 days of the suspension. A third DUI conviction within five years leads to a five-year revocation.
Working with an attorney can help drivers avoid convictions or take the necessary steps to regain their driving privileges. Motorists who understand the consequences of a potential DUI conviction can make a more informed decision about how to respond to a pending DUI charge.