New Orleans DUI Lawyer
Drinking and driving is illegal. All motorists know this, but many still get behind the wheel while intoxicated. If you drive erratically, you could get pulled over and asked to perform a field sobriety test and/or take a Breathalyzer test. If you have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08, you could get charged with driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI).
Any person driving a motorized vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can get a DUI or DWI. Keep in mind the term “motorized vehicle.” This means you could get a DUI while on a scooter or boat as well. While a DUI is typically a misdemeanor, there are still a lot of possible penalties involved. You could face fines, jail time, or license suspension. You may require an ignition interlock device in order to drive. You may have to perform community service or take alcohol education classes.
Don’t fight a DUI charge on your own. Get help from an experienced New Orleans DUI lawyer from Palazzo Law Firm. We know how to defend your case.
Penalties for DUI
Penalties for a DUI can vary, depending on how many prior convictions you have. If this is your first time, your punishment will be a lot less severe than if this is your third or fourth DUI conviction.
- First conviction. For a first offense, expect to pay a fine of $300-$1,000 and spend anywhere from 10 days to six months in prison. You may also get probation and be ordered to perform community service and complete a court-approved substance abuse program or driver improvement program
- Second conviction. The penalties get harsher the second time around. You will be punished with a fine of $750-$1,000 and imprisonment for 30 days to six months. You may be given probation and ordered to perform community service and substance abuse training.
- Third conviction. A third conviction will result in a fine of $2,000 and 1-5 years in prison. You will have to perform 30 eight-hour days of community service. You must also get a psychological evaluation and participate in a court appointed treatment program.
Keep in mind that if you kill someone while driving drunk, you could be charged with vehicular homicide. You could face 5-30 years in prison and a fine of $2,000 to $15,000
Contact Palazzo Law Firm Today
A DUI is no minor offense. It is one that can cause a lot of inconvenience and hardship, as you could lose your license, your job, your friends, and much more. The team at Palazzo Law Firm can help ensure you get the best results. A New Orleans DUI lawyer will work hard to get your life back to normal. To schedule a consultation, fill out the online form or call 504-433-1442.
