Individuals arrested for criminal infractions often worry about specific consequences. Most people fear the possibility of incarceration. Even when facing misdemeanor charges, it is possible for the courts to send someone to time in jail or prison.
A driving under the influence (DUI) charge might result in a stay in state custody. It can also lead to a host of financial penalties, including fines, licensing fees and court costs. Additionally, the courts can suspend someone’s driver’s license because of an impaired driving violation.
Is it standard practice to suspend someone’s license after a DUI conviction?
Driver’s license penalties are commonplace and nearly automatic
Given that DUI offenses involve violations of traffic laws and that driving is a privilege, it makes sense that the state temporarily suspends driving privileges after a DUI conviction. Anyone who pleads guilty to a DUI charge or gets convicted at trial is at risk of a driver’s license suspension.
The duration of that suspension depends on the circumstances that led to their arrest and their prior criminal record. Even first-time DUI convictions can lead to a driver’s license suspension. A motorist can lose their license for 180 days after a first offense or for as long as three years when they have a prior DUI on their record. Drivers often have to install an ignition interlock device (IID) to get their licenses back.
The state automatically moves to suspend a driver’s license 30 days after their arrest for a DUI offense after failing a chemical breath test or after refusing a test. The administrative suspension for a first offense is 180 days, and that is in addition to any penalties imposed by the courts.
Losing a license can be expensive. Motorists may spend thousands hiring taxis or Rideshare services until they regain their driving privileges. They might also be at risk of losing their jobs because they do not have reliable transportation. The choice to defend against DUI charges can help someone preserve their driver’s license and avoid a criminal record at the same time.
Learning more about the possible penalties of a DUI offense can help people make the decision to fight the charges they currently face. Defendants in Oklahoma who want to preserve their driving privileges often need to act quickly after their arrest to avoid an administrative license suspension.