Aggravated DUI charge penalties and punishments 

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What Being Charged With an Aggravated DUI Can Mean

Driving under the influence is a serious matter that requires a serious, careful approach. What makes such a difficult situation even worse is the presence of aggravating factors. These factors make an already serious offense that is DUI even more severe. 

This can have a significant impact on the life of the person that’s being charged both in terms of legal and non-legal consequences. In this article, we will explain what an aggravated DUI is, the aggravating factors to be aware of, and what being charged with an aggravated DUI can mean. 

More severe than a typical DUI, this charge refers to an instance in which an intoxicated driver displays a particularly reckless behavior. Their actions call for more serious legal consequences to help discourage such actions from taking place again in the future. 

Unlike a regular DUI or DWI (both of which are already serious offenses), an aggravated DWI charge is an instance in which a driver is committing not one but two offenses. As such, it can not be treated as a simple misdemeanor (which is often the case with first-time DUI or DWI offenses). As a result, it is considered a felony, and the penalties for such a charge are much stricter and harsher. 

What is an aggravated DUI charge?

Although the penalties vary depending on the state, they are quite strict since the aim is to prevent potential future misconducts. Of course, how the individual is punished will also depend on whether this is a first-time drunk driving offense or a subsequent offense. Jail time is mandatory for aggravated DUI offenders. The law enforcement may have their vehicle impounded, and the driver may need to install an ignition interlock device to help prevent them from driving while intoxicated. An aggravated DUI offender can also expect a $1000 fine or more, and they may have their license revoked. Alcohol education classes and alcohol treatment are also some of the penalties they can expect, along with probation and community service. 

The penalties are even worse for repeat offenders, often including much heftier fines, longer probation periods, and a year behind bars, with a possibility of having their driver’s license permanently revoked. 

Factors that contribute to aggravated DUI charge 

An aggravated DUI charge typically means enhanced penalties. There are several circumstances and factors that contribute to a person being charged with an aggravated DUI. These include: 

  • Test refusal – failing to cooperate by refusing tests may result in jail time, license suspension, and arrest
  • Injuries or death of another person – alcohol-related accidents that result in bodily harm of other people or even a fatal outcome often lead to multiple charges as well as civil lawsuits 
  • Driving with a non-valid license that is either suspended or revoked, or has otherwise been restricted – this is equal to disregarding the law, and can easily turn a misdemeanor into a felony DUI
  • Significantly exceeding the legal limit regarding blood alcohol content (BAC) by measuring 0.16% or more – the more the speed limit is exceeded, the higher the sentence
  • Operating a vehicle under the influence while transporting underage individuals – the presence of minors in the vehicle that is operated by an intoxicated individual is a serious aggravating factor that can result in stricter sentence and a child protective service (CPS) case being opened against the driver in question
  • Several DUI or DWI charges during a particular period of time – multiple convictions increase chances of harsher punishments 

How an aggravated DUI charge can impact an individual’s life

Other than paying fines, facing potential jail time, and having their driving privileges revoked, there are a multitude of other ways an aggravated DUI charge can impact an individual’s life. For starters, individuals charged with aggravated DUIs often face employment limitations along with career limitations. 

They may experience loss of voting rights, and they may end up with significantly higher insurance premiums. Also, their housing opportunities may be hindered by the fact that they have an aggravated DUI on their criminal record. Once that charge is there, it will be rather difficult to have it removed. 

Navigating the legal system more easily while protecting yourself legally 

An aggravated DUI often carries serious, life-altering consequences. Navigating such an overwhelming period in one’s life can be particularly hard, but proper legal protection and representation are imperative in this case. If you or someone you love is charged with an aggravated DUI, seeking help of a reputable, seasoned professional in the field will provide you with the legal advice you need while ensuring you’re successfully defended and protected. 

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