Utah DUI: Penalties and Criminal Charge Defense

Utah DUI laws are strict in an effort to encourage people to avoid this crime. Driving under the influence in the state can lead to significant penalties and punishments. Due to the severity of these infractions, it is critical to discuss your case with an attorney. The attorney may be able to help you to get the charges dropped or reduced.

First Offense

A first offense of driving under the influence may have the following penalties and punishments on Utah law.

• At least 48 hours of jail time or at least 48 hours of work service program
• Home confinement
• A of at least $700
• License suspension up to 120 days

In addition to this, you may be asked to participate in a alcohol and drug screening program, participate in a substance abuse program or to obtain education on driving under the influence.

Second Offense

If you face a second offense, you could face additional penalties including:

• Jail time of up to 240 hours, or enrollment in a work service program for at least 240 hours
• A fine of at least $800
• Home confinement
• License suspension for two years
• Use of an ignition interlock device for three years.

It is also possible a judge will order participation in drug and alcohol screenings and treatments. You may have supervised probation.

Third Offense

A third offense may include the following penalties and punishments.

• Jail time of a minimum of 1500 hours
• A fine of $1500 minimum
• A license suspension of two years
• An ignition interlock device installed for three years.

In addition to these charges, you may also face supervised probation.  In addition to this, you may also face forced participation in alcohol and drug screening and assessments. You may be required to obtain treatment for abuse or at least education in driving under the influence. Judges have the ability to install stiffer fines and penalties as needed.

Keep in mind that in Utah, driving under the influence punishments escalate for additional charges, without any timeline. Even if your first time offense was several years ago, a second offense will hold higher punishment.

Hire an Attorney

Hiring an attorney is often recommended for anyone who is facing Utah DUI laws. The attorney can help you to minimize your risk by helping you to get the charges reduced or dropped in some cases. Minimum punishments are more likely in cases where you have an attorney or you are knowledgeable of the law.