There’s nothing quite as sickening as the sight of flashing police lights behind your car, especially if you are driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs. This article will help you understand how a DWI charge can affect your freedom, and what you should do to start the journey toward recovery from your conviction.
What is a DWI Charge?
When someone is charged with a DWI, it means that they were accused of driving while intoxicated or impaired. In other words, their ability to reason, think clearly, and drive in a responsible manner were inhibited by the use of alcohol or drugs. Law offices like the Lowry Law Firm contain a group of attorneys who are experienced in DWI cases and can help to best explain the charges.
What Does a DWI Charge Mean?
Too often, people think that a few drinks won’t impair their driving and that they won’t get caught. This is faulty thinking that often leads many to face not only arrest and a heavy fine, but a lifetime of consequences. Listed below are a few of the ways that a DWI charge can affect your freedom.
–License Suspension
When you are charged with a DWI, expect to have your license suspended. If this is your first DWI, you will be unable to drive for approximately 90 days, while those on their second offense can lose their license for up to a year. If your license has been suspended twice within five years, you may lose your driving privileges for five years. Those working on their third DWI may lose their license for as many as ten years.
-Jail Time
Depending on the decision of the judge, those charged with DWI may be sentenced to up to six months in jail. Being imprisoned may leave you jobless while also affecting relationships with your family.
-Fines and Fees
Following a DWI conviction, you may be fined as much as $500 in addition to court costs. If you are required to equip your car with an ignition interlock, you will also be expected to cover the costs involved.
-A Bad Record
When you are charged with DWI, it will go on your record forever. This can make it hard to get a job or fill certain positions.
A DWI isn’t something to be taken lightly; instead, it is a life-changing charge that can drastically reduce your quality of life. If you are facing a DWI charge, contact an attorney who will help you understand your rights and fight for the best sentence possible.
About the Author: Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. She went to college at The Ohio State University where she studied communications. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and long walks in the park with her husky Snowball. You can find her on Twitter at @LizzieWeakley and on Facebook at facebook.com/lizzie.weakley.
