What Happens If You Get A Dui While On Probation

What Happens If You Get a DUI While on Probation?

Facing a first-time DUI (driving under the influence) offense is a daunting prospect, especially if you’re on probation. Receiving a DUI while on probation can complicate your situation, however, as it can create even harsher restrictions on your behavior. It’s important that you understand the serious penalties you may face if you receive a DUI while on probation.

Fines and Jail Time

When you receive a DUI while on probation, you will generally be required to pay a fine. This is intended to punish you and to serve as an initial deterrent against continuing to break DUI laws. Additionally, you may be sent to jail for a period of time. The amount of jail time imposed could vary, depending on the details of your DUI and your probation agreement. If your DUI involved any aggravating circumstances, you may be facing a longer jail term than someone with a less serious DUI.

Probation Revocation

Anyone charged with a DUI while on probation can face probation revocation. When you are placed on probation, you are essentially being given an opportunity to correct a past wrong. A DUI while on probation can indicate to a court that you may be unwilling or unable to make this change. If a court decides to revoke your probation, you will generally be facing jail time.

Probation Modification

In some cases, the court may decide to modify your probation if you are charged with a DUI while on probation. For example, your probation officer may be given the power to curtail any additional freedoms that you had previously enjoyed. Your probation officer may also impose more specific requirements on the duration of your probation. These modifications may even lead to a longer period of probation after you are released from prison.

Additional Charges

If you are charged with a DUI while on probation, you may also be charged for any other actions you take while intoxicated. This could include reckless driving, hit-and-run charges, and excessive speed. You may end up facing additional charges, even if the court does not revoke your probation.

Aggravating Circumstances

Certain factors can make a DUI while on probation much more serious. The presence of any of the following circumstances may increase the penalties associated with your DUI charge: a high blood-alcohol concentration, the presence of minor passengers, or the presence of drugs. Additionally, you may be looking at harsher punishments depending on the status of your probation at the time.

Representation

You have the right to represent yourself when you are facing a DUI charge while on probation. Additionally, you can consult with a professional DUI lawyer who will be able to advocate on your behalf. The right DUI lawyer can help you minimize the long-term effects of your DUI charge.

Preparing for a DUI While on Probation Charge

If you’ve been charged with a DUI while on probation, you must take these charges seriously. Both misdemeanor and felony DUI charges can follow you for the rest of your life. Be sure you understand the charges that apply to your DUI while on probation and begin working to build your defense. This can help you protect yourself and ensure that your future is not affected by these charges.

Get Help Handling Your DUI While on Probation Charge

If you’re facing a DUI while on probation charge, the professionals at the Simmrin Law Group can help. We understand how to build a defense that can help you in court, especially if you are already on probation. Our team has experience with DUI cases and we know what resources to use to help you begin working on your defense.

You can start getting legal assistance right now. Start exploring your legal options today by calling us at (310) 997-4688 or by filling out our online contact form.