DUI / Impaired Driving

Being arrested for drunk driving can carry a long list of emotional, mental, familial embarrassment and hardship. No one ever WANTS to be caught driving while under the influence. Dena R. Horvath PLLC knows that people faced with these charges are often everyday, law-abiding citizens who simply made a mistake. Look around the room anywhere you go, everyone has made a mistake here or there, they just may not have been caught yet. Dena will help guide you through this process with minimal penalty exposure.

Often, the most serious penalty for a DUI charge is loss of license. 

A first-offense DUI charge is classified as a misdemeanor. If found guilty, the judge could order you to:

• Spend up to 93 days in jail
• Pay up to $500 in fines
• Perform 360 hours of community service
• Complete a court-approved alcohol and drug education program
  

In addition, your license penalties may include a 30-day suspension and 150 days of restricted driving. If it is a Super Drunk first offense, you could face up to 180 days in jail and a one-year suspension of your drivers license. If you were involved in an accident that resulted in serious bodily injury or death, you could face felony charges. 

A second-offense operating while intoxicated charge is classified as a misdemeanor. If convicted of a second offense within seven years of your prior DUI, the judge can sentence you to anywhere from five days to one year in jail. In addition, you may be ordered to pay large fines and court costs, perform 30 to 90 days of community service, and attend alcohol education classes. You will also face more serious consequences with your drivers license. Many counties now have programs in place that allow for the possibility of keeping your license after a second offense. Your attorney will know if you are eligible and if it’s a good fit for you. 

A 3rd DUI is a felony. If convicted, you will be sentenced to at least 30 days in jail and will lose your voting and gun rights. You will also loose your license to drive.

A DUI or OWI is one of the most difficult to win at trial. However, it has been done. If there is no defense, an attorney can help minimize your exposure and negotiate a plea with the prosecution. Having a DUI has very serious, long lasting consequences. Make sure to hire an attorney immediately.