DUI recovery is a long process whose effects can linger for years following a DUI arrest. A DUI is a criminal offense that is committed when someone operates a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. DUI recovery can depend on the particular laws and punishments applicable to one’s particular DUI case. DUI recovery varies from state to state, as each state has the authority to legislate DUI laws at their discretion.
There are some DUI recovery factors that are similar across the board. Most states have “per se” DUI laws stating that anyone with a blood alcohol concentration at or above 0.08 is in violation of the legal alcohol limits for driving a motor vehicle. Most states have “zero tolerance” laws that affirm that drivers under the age of 21 can be charged with a DUI if any level of alcohol is detected in their system.
Implied consent law violations can also affect DUI recovery. When you are given a driver’s license by the department of motor vehicles, you implicitly consent to chemical testing for drugs or alcohol at the discretion of law enforcement officials. This means that if you refuse to comply with chemical testing at the time of investigation or arrest, your DUI sentence may be enhanced.
There are other DUI circumstances that may make DUI recovery more difficult. DUI penalties can be enhanced under a number of circumstances. DUI sentences are significantly harsher for repeat offenders and can result in heavier fines, longer probation periods, further license revocation, and possibly jail time. DUI penalties can also be enhanced in the following circumstances: a child was involved in the DUI incident; injury resulted from the incident, the driver had a relatively high blood alcohol concentration, the driver was excessively speeding and other aggravating factors.
DUI recovery is best facilitated with the help of a professional DUI defense attorney. When a person is charged with a DUI they face possible jail time, probation, punitive fines, compulsory DUI School or treatment programs, the loss or restriction of their licenses, and other penalties. DUI recovery can be more difficult for people with a DUI conviction for years following an incident because a DUI conviction stays on one’s criminal record permanently. This can make securing employment, obtaining professional licenses, affordable insurance coverage, entrance into some schools, and other future opportunities difficult to achieve.
DUI recovery services facilitated by qualified and experienced DUI defense attorneys can help DUI offenders receive a reduced sentence for their crimes or, in some cases, have all charges dropped. DUI recovery can also involve legal representation in motor vehicle hearings where restrictions placed on driving privileges are determined. DUI defense attorneys can protect and maximize your best interests in both criminal and motor vehicle proceedings. In some cases, a DUI recovery attorney may be able to facilitate the expungement of your DUI records. This means that evidence of a DUI conviction can be erased from your permanent criminal record under some circumstances. A DUI defense attorney is your best resource in securing a strong DUI recovery.