DUI Law in Gulfport, MS
The fear, anxiety, and uncertainty that follow a DUI can feel like too much to handle. However, this article will be your guiding light through what happens next.
DUI charges can affect your driving privileges, finances, and freedom. Navigating these challenges requires a clear understanding of state law and the potential consequences.
Knowledge is your greatest ally, so don’t leave your future to chance. This article is your first step forward if you or a loved one must face a DUI charge.
Possible Consequences of Gulfport, Mississippi DUI Convictions
Where you live, the severity of the incident, and your criminal record determine the sentencing for a DUI. The punishments can drastically increase if you have had previous DUIs, so be mindful of that. If this is your first DUI, do not go at it alone and risk costly mistakes. Get a Gulfport law firm on your side to fight for you and your rights.
Paying Fines
If convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Gulfport, Mississippi, you can count on fines being a part of your sentencing.
In Mississippi, the minimum fine for a first-time DUI conviction is $250. However, the maximum can go up to $1,000. Please note that these amounts can vary depending on the specific circumstances in Gulfport.
However, other factors can drastically increase the amount you must pay, including:
- Any damage to property while driving under the influence
- If someone suffered injuries as a result of your intoxicated driving
- Cases that include child endangerment
- Any court costs associated with your case
Jail Time
Jail time is mandatory, even for first-time offenders in Gulfport. If this is your first DUI offense, you may only have to face a day or two in prison. But if you have previous convictions for DUIs, you can be sentenced to several months or years, depending on the nature of the crime. Know that some circumstances can add even more time in a cell, including injury to other people while driving under the influence.
Probation
If you do not face jail time, you will likely be on probation, with the sentencing judge determining the duration. You will pay monthly fees, and you cannot commit any more criminal offenses, including traffic violations. If you violate the terms of your probation, count on facing time behind bars.
Probationers in Gulfport can anticipate several specific conditions set by a local court. Anyone under these orders reports to a probation officer who monitors their compliance. The terms they enforce include refraining from criminal activity and regular drug testing. There can also be strict curfews and travel limitations.
Drug and Alcohol Education Program
Following a Gulfport DUI sentencing, the law states you must complete a drug and alcohol education program. This will teach you about the dangers of driving under the influence. These programs cost more fees besides the legal costs you already have to pay.
Mississippi has a statewide approved course for DUI offenders. Judges in Gulfport may order you to attend MASEP (Mississippi Alcohol Safety Education Program). As of 2023, the fee is $225, and there are several sessions to complete successfully.
The education programs also include a DUI evaluation. An evaluator asks you questions about how alcohol and drugs affect your life. If they believe that you are dependent, you may have to enter a substance abuse treatment program.
Suspension or Loss of License
No matter where you may face a DUI conviction, you have to undergo a license suspension period, at the very least. If it is your first DUI, you may have a license suspension for a few months while you go through probation and the drug and alcohol education program.
If this is not your first DUI, you may have your license suspended for much longer, or you could have it taken from you permanently.
What Should You Do When Charged With a DUI in Gulfport, Mississippi?
If you’re facing a felony DUI charge, you must take the following steps to protect yourself:
Step 1: Contact an Attorney Familiar With DUI Law
Immediately following your DUI arrest, you need to contact an experienced Gulfport DUI attorney. Your attorney can help prepare for your arraignment and prepare a defense to vindicate yourself or reduce the sentencing.
Step 2: Learn About Your Local DUI Laws
Gulfport, Mississippi has unique laws for DUI or DWI charges. Your lawyer will work with you to help you better understand your state’s laws on driving while intoxicated. It is critical to understand what charges you face and the potential outcomes of your case.
Step 3: Request a DMV Hearing
You or your attorney should request a hearing as soon as possible following your arrest. In Gulfport, Mississippi you only have so much time to ask for a DMV hearing to keep your license until your court appearance. If you do not request a hearing, prepare for a license suspension.
Gulfport motorists have ten days to contact the Mississippi DPS for a hearing after a DUI arrest. This request should include your contact details and a brief explanation of your situation.
Step 4: Prepare for Court Appearance
You and your attorney will prepare for your appearance and arraignment in Gulfport. If you plead “not guilty,” your DUI defense attorney represents you in court, and a judge and jury oversee the DUI law case.
Step 5: Receive Sentencing or Exoneration
You will either be “not guilty” of the charges brought against you and walk free, or you will receive sentencing for a guilty verdict.
Work with an Experienced Local DUI Lawyer in Gulfport, Mississippi
Should you ever find yourself charged with a DUI, you need to work with an experienced Gulfport lawyer who can stand up for you in court. You cannot clear your name of the charges or reduce the consequences without help. Your life and future depend on having great legal representation during your DUI case. Contact an attorney near you today. We can even help you connect with legal help across Mississippi state lines.
Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an experienced lawyer in your area!
