Driving under the influence (DUI) charges are relatively common, which might be why some people don’t consider them serious. Unless there’s a crash that puts someone in the hospital or worse, people often dismiss DUI offenses as victimless crimes.
However, the state is not nearly so dismissive. People who plead guilty to DUI offenses may not realize the lasting consequences of that decision until it is too late to change it. Entering a guilty plea to a DUI offense can have numerous lasting consequences for the accused driver.
What significant consequences do people need to consider when responding to DUI allegations?
The impact of a criminal sentence
The criminal penalties that the courts impose depend on the consequences of the drunk driving incident and the driver’s prior record. Jail time, fines and driver’s license suspensions are common penalties.
Each of those consequences has different long-term implications. It can take people months or longer to bounce back from the economic consequences of a conviction, including court costs.
The loss of driving privileges can also trigger significant challenges, including career issues. Finally, those who serve time in state facilities may be traumatized by that experience, which can take years to properly address.
The impact of a criminal record
A DUI is not like a traffic offense that comes off of a driver’s record after a few years. Typically, the convicted motorist has a record for the rest of their life after pleading guilty to a DUI offense.
Every employer, landlord or educational institution considering working with an individual can find out about their prior drunk driving accusations. Most of the time, DUI convictions are not eligible for expungement unless the person accused was a minor at the time.
As such, the record of the offense can affect everything from employment opportunities to professional licensing for many years. The only way to avoid criminal penalties and a criminal record is to successfully fight back against DUI charges. Defendants might be able to raise questions about the legality of a traffic stop or the accuracy of testing.
Reviewing the circumstances surrounding recent DUI charges can help people evaluate their options. With the right help, drivers in Hawaii may avoid permanent consequences after a DUI arrest.