What Penalties are Imposed for DUI?
The first offense is generally a misdemeanor. Misdemeanors are punishable by up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine. The minimum penalties for first offense are typically two days in jail (or community service), a large fine and a DUI education course including mandatory attendance at a victim impact panel. If a person’s blood alcohol level was 0.10 (or 0.08) or more, or the person is under the age of 21, he or she may also be required to pay for an alcohol evaluation. A second offense within seven years generally also constitutes a misdemeanor. The person must generally pay to have an alcohol evaluation done, pay a fine of from $500 to $1,000, serve 10 days in jail or 10 days of in-house arrest (up to six months of jail/in-house arrest), and perform community services. A third offense within seven years is generally a felony. The person will likely be sentenced to one to six years in prison and pay a $2,000 to $5,000 fine.
