Drunk Driving/DUI - An Overview: The crime of drunk driving is also known as "driving under the influence," or DUI, and "driving while intoxicated," or DWI. In some states, the crime may be known as "operating while intoxicated, or OWI, or "operating under the influence," or OUI. The names vary according to how state law refers to or defines the crime. Whatever the name, the state laws all have a common aim of punishing those who drink and drive, or those who drive while under the influence of illegal drugs. A drunk driving conviction carries with it serious and long-lasting consequences: jail or prison time, a heavy fine, and suspension or revocation of a driver's license. A person who is facing a drunk driving charge should not hesitate to seek immediate legal counsel from an experienced drunk driving defense attorney.
Facing a drunk driving charge like Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol (DUI) or Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) can be a harrowing experience. The prospect of DUI penalties such as jail, or the loss of a driver’s license, is not pleasant to contemplate. Your freedom and ability to make a living may be at stake. That is why it is important to get a DUI attorney, DWI attorney, Drunk Driving lawyer or Drunk Driving Attorneys knowledgeable about all facets of DUI laws and DWI cases to represent you. These attorneys know how to beat a DWI or beat a DUI.
Drunk Driving Penalties: In the last twenty years, the penalties for drunk driving have become far more severe than they were in the past. First-time offenders face potential jail time and fines, although often the penalty for a first-time offense will be something less than jail time in exchange for a guilty plea. Repeat offenders are usually treated more harshly, with substantial fines and mandatory jail sentences that may not be suspended or waived by the court. State administrative regulations often call for suspension or revocation of a defendant's driver's license in addition to any criminal penalty. Defendants have sometimes tried to make the argument that this administrative suspension is double jeopardy prohibited by the U.S. Constitution, but these arguments have never succeeded.