what is dui charges

A DUI charge, or Driving Under the Influence, occurs when a person operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. DUI is a serious offense in the United States and can result in criminal penalties, including fines, jail time, probation, and community service. The severity of the charge can depend on several factors, including the number of prior DUI convictions, blood alcohol content (BAC) level, and whether a minor was present in the car. A simple DUI conviction is a misdemeanor charge and carries the lightest penalties, granted there arent any aggravating factors such as severely injuring someone or causing a death. However, a DUI charge can stay on your record for life and may result in higher insurance rates alongside other consequences such as driver’s license revocation. A DUI conviction involving death is different from simple DUIs. DUI laws differ in each state, but in most cases, a person receiving a first-time DUI conviction is charged with a misdemeanor. However, certain conditions at the time of the violation can increase this to a felony, including elevated blood alcohol, violation of other laws, and driving under a revoked, suspended, or restricted license. A DUI arrest is always serious, whether charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. Upon conviction or a guilty plea, most people lose their driver’s license for a specified time and are charged fines and court fees. Repeat offenses often result in jail time.