Before we get into what DUI penalty you may be facing we first need to look at what a DUI is. By definition a DUI is the act of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In most countries driving under the influence, which in the United States is having a blood alcohol content of .08%, is considered a criminal offense. So if you have been charged with a DUI what sort of penalties will you face?

Some of the DUI penalties imposed by the court are:

• Seizure of your vehicle
• The installation of an ignition interlock system on your vehicle. An ignition interlock system is a small handheld alcohol sensor unit that is attached to your dashboard that you have to blow into before your vehicle will start. If your blood alcohol reads .02 to .04 your vehicle will not start.
• Suspension of your driver’s license
• Community service
• Mandatory alcohol and drug counseling or classes
• Probation
• Prison or jail time … depending on the severity of the charge and whether or not it is your first offense or a repeat offense
• You may also be required to purchase high risk insurance
• Fines
• Civil liability for any property damage or bodily injury you may have caused
• Suspension of your license plate

The DUI penalty you face will be dependent on the charge that is brought against you. If you are facing a DUI charge you need to secure yourself a DUI/DWI defense lawyer that will defend you to the best of their ability.