Did you know, more than 1.5 million Americans are arrested every year for driving under the influence?
You should avoid driving after any amount of alcohol or drugs. Driving while impaired reduces your coordination and leads to more than 10,000 deaths per year.
If you get hit with a DUI charge, it pays to learn about what happens next. Is DUI a misdemeanor or a felony? What sentence can I expect? And where do I find a DUI attorney in Austin?
Our helpful guide answers all these questions and more. Read on for everything you need to know.
Misdemeanor DUI
In Texas, first-time DUI offenses are class B misdemeanors.
This means if you end up convicted of your DUI charge, you will face fines of up to $2,000 and up to 180 days in county jail.
The sentencing for DUI misdemeanors varies depending on the specifics of your case. You will likely spend the mandatory three days in jail for class B misdemeanors unless you get probation.
However, a DUI charge can quickly become more serious in certain circumstances.
If you have a high level of alcohol in your system (.15 or higher), then your charge will escalate to a class A misdemeanor. The penalty for class A DUI is a fine of up to $4,000 and 1 year in county jail.
If you have a problem with alcohol, the judge may order you to attend a rehabilitation program.
To stop your DUI case from escalating, you can contact James Fletcher attorney services.
Felony DUI
In some cases, DUI can be charged as a felony.
If you are caught driving while intoxicated with a minor in your car, a first offense DUI will immediately escalate to a felony. This means anybody under the age of 15.
If you injure someone while intoxicated, you will be charged with intoxication assault. This is a third-degree felony, punishable by 2 – 10 years in state jail and fines of up to $10,000.
Intoxicated driving resulting in death is an extremely serious matter and a second-degree felony. If convicted, you could face up to 20 years in prison.
The best way to avoid stiff sentencing is to get expert legal counsel. We offer advice and representation for all kinds of DUI charges.
Preparing Your DUI Case
DUI is one of the most common crimes committed in the U.S.
If you are involved in a DUI case, an experienced DUI lawyer can help you understand your rights and fight for your freedom.
Because the sentencing and conviction rates are so varied, it pays to have someone on your side who knows the nuanced world of DUI law.
DWI Austin attorney James Fletcher has experience working all over Texas. He will ensure your trial and sentencing are fair.
Is DUI a Misdemeanor? DUI Law Explained
So, that’s your guide to DUI as a misdemeanor or felony.
If you were wondering, ‘is DUI a misdemeanor?’, you now have the knowledge you need to move forward with your case.
Most people charged with DUI are honest citizens who made a mistake. It’s how you deal with it that matters.
We are experts in Texas DUI law. Contact us today to see how we can help.