When convicted of a DUI- or driving under the influence- charge, there may be several types of punishment involved in the sentence. DUI laws vary from state to state, but in all states, it is possible to receive the following penalties: monetary fines, loss, suspension or revocation of the defendant’s driver’s license, and/or jail time. The court might also order DUI school for those convicted of a DUI.
Court-ordered plea bargains or sentences may allow DUI school as part of the penalty for a DUI conviction. In some states completing DUI school may reduce other penalties or prevent the DUI offender from getting points added to their driver’s license. The requirements and program components of a DUI school may be different depending on the location and circumstances of the DUI case. DUI school requirements may be harsher for repeat offenders or a person convicted of a DUI felony. The courts may also prohibit DUI school options for repeat offenders who have already gone through DUI school for past convictions.
DUI school can be a privilege because it can save the DUI offender money in insurance and possibly reduce fines. DUI schools often do cost money, the amount of which is based on the program and the severity of the circumstances surrounding the case. DUI school may be a one-day long class or more than one partial-day of class. Most laws set the minimum course time at twelve hours, but this can vary greatly depending on the case and the location of the crime.
In many states, the court or the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will certify and monitor DUI schools, but it is important to make sure that a DUI school is approved by the proper authorities prior to enrollment in any state. Though the DMV licenses and monitors DUI schools, they do not necessarily regulate DUI school fees or program schedule.
Some DUI schools will allow you to complete their courses via the internet, video, or through the mail. Other DUI schools are held in person in an educational setting or related environment. These DUI schools may focus on aspects of alcohol use and addiction and try to help DUI school students stop drinking or abusing alcohol. Other DUI schools may take students to local hospitals, morgues, or show images of alcohol-related accidents to their students in order to expose them to the harsh realities of DUI consequences and to deter them from drinking and driving in the future. The purpose of most DUI schools is to educate their students about alcohol and related issues and to deter students from becoming repeating offenders.
If you, or someone you know, has been involved in a DUI case, it is important to consult a DUI legal professional who can help you defend your case. It is possible that DUI school might be an option in your DUI case.