DUI Law in Wichita, KS
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 Wichita, Kansas 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 Wichita, Kansas 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 Wichita 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 Wichita, Kansas, you can count on fines being a part of your sentencing. According to the Kansas Department of Transportation, the fine for your first DUI in Wichita can range from $500 to $1000. For subsequent offenses, fines can be as high as $2500. In addition, your third DUI and above will be classified as a felony.
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 Wichita. 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.
After a DUI in Wichita, you may be placed on probation as part of your sentence. Typical terms for a DUI probation in Kansas can include alcohol treatment or education. As well as monthly check-ins with a probation officer, and abstinence from drugs or alcohol. In addition, you may be subject to random urinalysis and could even be banned from any venue that sells alcohol. If you violate the terms of your probation, the result can be additional fines, or even jail time. The probation office for Wichita Municipal Court is located on the same floor as the court in City Hall.
Drug and Alcohol Education Program
Following a Wichita 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.
Under Kansas Law, anyone convicted of a DUI in Wichita must undergo an alcohol evaluation. Based on the results, a program of either education or treatment will be recommended. The cost of the evaluation will be around $150, and you will also be required to pay for the recommended education or treatment program. There are 9 authorized DUI education providers in Wichita, as well as an option for online classes.
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 Wichita, Kansas?
If you’re facing a felony DUI charge, you must take the following steps to protect yourself:
Step 1: Contact an Attorney Familiar With Wichita, KS DUI Law
Immediately following your DUI arrest, you need to contact an experienced Wichita 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
Wichita, Kansas 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 Wichita, Kansas 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 your driver’s license is suspended after a DUI arrest in Wichita, you have only 14 days to request a hearing with the Kansas Department of Revenue. The request must be in writing. Hearings are typically conducted by conference call, but you can request an in-person hearing if you prefer.
Step 4: Prepare for Court Appearance
You and your attorney will prepare for your appearance and arraignment in Wichita. 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 Wichita, Kansas
Should you ever find yourself charged with a DUI, you need to work with an experienced Wichita, KS 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 Kansas 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!
