DUI Law in Meridian, ID
What Is a DUI?
DUI, which refers to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, is a criminal offense that can lead to weighty consequences. Also known as DWI, the process of going to court to face either conviction or exoneration can change the course of your life forever.
Learn more about your DUI law defense options below, and then talk to a local attorney in Meridian, Idaho who will help you in this delicate situation. You don’t have to stare down consequences alone. You can take wise steps today to protect your interests.
Possible Consequences of a Meridian, Idaho
DUI Conviction
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 Meridian 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 Meridian, Idaho, you can count on fines being a part of your sentencing. According to the Idaho State Patrol, fines for a Meridian DUI can be as high as $5,000. Even your first DUI offense can result in a $1,000 fine.
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 Meridian. 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.
Under Idaho law, DUI convictions in Meridian may result in probation as a part of your sentence. Idaho probations can be either supervised or unsupervised, at the court’s discretion. You may have to refrain from using alcohol and could be subject to random searches and urine tests. If you violate the terms of your probation, the judge can extend the length of your probation or even send you to jail. District 4 of the Idaho Department of Correction will monitor your probation. Unfortunately, there is no probation office in Meridian, so the court will typically assign you to a location in either Boise or Eagle.
Drug and Alcohol Education Program
Following a Meridian 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.
If you get a DUI in Meridian, the court may order you to complete a DUI education program. Alternatively, you may need to take the program in order to obtain a restricted license during your suspension. The Ada County Court maintains a list of acceptable providers, several of which are in Meridian. The education program for first time offenders is 12 hours and costs up to $200. Under Idaho statute, you will also have to submit to a mandatory substance abuse assessment. If necessary, the court can order you to participate in a treatment program.
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 Meridian, Idaho?
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 Meridian 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
Meridian, Idaho 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 Meridian, Idaho 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.
If the police stop you for a DUI in Meridian, they will perform a test to determine your blood alcohol content (BAC). According to the Idaho Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), if you refuse or fail the test, the police will confiscate your driver’s license. However, the officer may issue a temporary driving permit good for up to 30 days. You then have 7 days to request an administrative hearing with the Idaho Department of Transportation. Unless you prevail at your hearing, the DMV will automatically suspend your license for 90-180 days.
Step 4: Prepare for Court Appearance
You and your attorney will prepare for your appearance and arraignment in Meridian. 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 Meridian, Idaho
Should you ever find yourself charged with a DUI, you need to work with an experienced Meridian 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 Idaho 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!
