DUI Law in Utah
Utah is well-known for having some of the most stringent DUI laws in the nation. After all, it has a legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) limit of just 0.05%, the lowest in the United States. Even a first offense can lead to severe consequences, including significant fines, license suspension, mandatory education programs, and possible jail time.
This guide will outline the penalties for DUI convictions in Utah, and provide actionable steps to help you navigate the legal process with confidence and clarity.
Possible Consequences of a Utah DUI Conviction
DUI penalties in Utah vary based on several factors, including your BAC at the time of arrest, whether it’s your first offense, and if there were any aggravating circumstances such as accidents or injuries. For commercial drivers, the legal BAC limit is even lower at 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, Utah enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy.
Paying Fines
Financial penalties are a standard consequence of a DUI conviction in Utah. For a first offense, fines start at $700 but can increase to over $1,300 after surcharges and court fees are added. Second offenses carry fines of at least $800, while third offenses, considered felonies, can result in fines exceeding $2,500.
If your DUI involved damages or injuries, restitution to cover costs for victims may also be required.
Jail Time
Utah law mandates jail time for DUI convictions. A first offense typically results in a minimum of 48 hours in jail, but this may be replaced with 48 hours of community service in some cases.
A second DUI can lead to 240 hours in jail or more, and third offenses carry a sentence of up to 5 years in prison. Aggravating factors, such as high BAC levels or causing an accident, can result in even longer sentences.
Refusing to submit to a chemical test alone can see your license suspended for up to 18 months. The Utah Department of Public Safety states that completing a substance abuse program may help reinstate your license.
Probation
Probation is often part of DUI sentencing, especially for first-time offenders. While on probation, you may be required to meet with a probation officer regularly, attend treatment programs, and avoid alcohol or drugs. Probation typically lasts 6 to 18 months, depending on the severity of the offense.
Failing to comply with probation conditions can result in additional penalties, including jail time or extended probation. In Utah, probation is generally handled through local courts or corrections departments.
Drug and Alcohol Education Program
Utah mandates participation in a state-approved alcohol education or treatment program for DUI offenders. These courses typically range from 16 to 32 hours and are designed to educate participants on the dangers of impaired driving. Costs for these programs vary but typically range between $300 and $500.
For repeat offenders or those with high BAC levels, a substance abuse evaluation may also be required. Depending on the evaluation results, additional treatment or counseling may be mandated by the court.
Suspension or Loss of License
License suspension is a common penalty for DUI convictions in Utah. A first offense results in a 120-day suspension, while a second offense leads to a suspension of 2 years. For those under 21, license suspensions may last longer due to the zero-tolerance policy.
To reinstate your license, you must complete all court-ordered requirements, pay reinstatement fees, and in many cases, install an ignition interlock device (IID). The IID prevents your vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on your breath.
What Should You Do When Charged With a DUI in Utah ?
If you’re facing a felony DUI charge, you must take the following steps to protect yourself:
Step 1: Contact an Attorney Familiar With Utah DUI Law
After being charged with a DUI, your first step should be contacting a skilled attorney. A knowledgeable lawyer can evaluate your case, identify potential defenses, and guide you through Utah’s legal process.
Step 2: Learn About Your State’s DUI Laws
Utah’s DUI laws are among the strictest in the country, but they also allow for plea agreements and alternative sentencing in certain cases. Your attorney can help you understand these laws and how they apply to your unique situation.
Step 3: Request a DMV Hearing
You have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a hearing with the Utah Department of Public Safety to contest your license suspension. Missing this deadline will result in an automatic suspension. Contact your local Driver License Division to submit your request.
Step 4: Prepare for Court Appearance
Your attorney will help you prepare for court by analyzing the evidence, reviewing the arrest procedure, and identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. A well-prepared defense can result in reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or even a dismissal.
Step 5: Receive Sentencing or Exoneration
If convicted, you’ll need to complete all court-ordered obligations, such as paying fines, attending treatment programs, and complying with probation. Promptly meeting these requirements can help you avoid additional penalties and begin the process of moving forward.
Work with an Experienced Local DUI Lawyer in Utah
Should you ever find yourself charged with a DUI, you need to work with an experienced Utah 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 in Utah today. We can even help you connect with legal help across Utah 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!
About the Author
Aaron is a professional legal writer with a B.S. in English Education from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale. He has written, published, and edited thousands of legal articles for RequestLegalHelp, which has connected over 5 million people to legal help in the United States.
With over five years of experience writing thousands of legal articles for law firms across the U.S. and Canada, Aaron specializes in covering federal, state, and city-level legal issues ranging from auto accidents to wrongful terminations.
There are still many areas of Utah law you may want to explore to be sure that you have completed all the necessary research for your particular case.
