DUI Law in Rutland, VT

A DUI arrest can be a life-altering event. Several consequences can affect your freedom, finances, and future.

Local prosecutors have many incentives to push for the most substantial punishment possible. However, you have a right to a defense that gets the court to look at the whole picture.

Whether you have concerns about losing your license or going to prison, this article will help you explore the nuances. Consider your options below and ask us for a referral to a local attorney to discuss them today.

Possible Consequences of Rutland, Vermont 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 Rutland 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 Rutland, Vermont, you can count on fines being a part of your sentencing.

The minimum fine for a DUI conviction in Rutland for a first-time offense is $750. However, the maximum can be $2,500. The numbers only jump higher from there for subsequent offenses. The judge in your case has significant discretion for sentencing.

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 Rutland. 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 Rutland can expect conditions like mandatory drug or alcohol testing. Additionally, the judge can order participation in rehabilitative programs for substance abuse. Fines, restitution, or court-ordered fees are additional costs to consider beyond the treatment costs.

Drug and Alcohol Education Program

Following a Rutland 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.

The Vermont Department of Health operates the Impaired Driver Rehabilitation Program (IDRP). This crucial government initiative addresses alcohol and drug-related impaired driving issues in the state. This program provides comprehensive assessment and education services for individuals with DUI convictions. IDRP assesses substance use and helps locals access appropriate treatment if needed. Additionally, they give around 10 hours of instruction as ordered by the judge.

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 Rutland, Vermont?

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 Rutland 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

Rutland, Vermont 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 Rutland, Vermont 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.

Rutland locals have seven calendar days from their DUI arrest to request a hearing with the DMV. You or your attorney must contact the Administrative Per Se (APS) Program. There will be a hearing to contest the suspension that resembles a trial. Legal representation is not a requirement, but it is advisable.

Step 4: Prepare for Court Appearance

You and your attorney will prepare for your appearance and arraignment in Rutland. 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 Rutland, Vermont

Should you ever find yourself charged with a DUI, you need to work with an experienced Rutland 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 Vermont 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!