It is frightening to consider the potentially life-long consequences of having a driving under the influence (DUI) charge on your record. You want the best possible outcome when facing a driving under the influence charge in Las Vegas. Locals know that having a dedicated Las Vegas DUI defense lawyer could make a significant impact on their case.
What Is a DUI Charge?
Nevada law classifies drivers with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher as legally intoxicated and driving under the influence (DUI). DUI penalties include steep fines, loss of driving privileges, ignition interlock, mandatory alcohol or drug treatment, community service, and imprisonment.
A DUI conviction has collateral consequences. You might not enjoy the same academic, professional, and civil rights, especially with a felony DUI record. It is in your best interest to work with an aggressive DUI defense team.
Misdemeanor DUI
Penalties for a misdemeanor DUI in Vegas can include community service, ignition lock devices, driver’s license or vehicle registration suspension, and a possible jail sentence. Nevada misdemeanor DUI penalties are:
- First offense without injury: Two days to six months in jail or 48 to 96 hours of community service, fines from $400 to $1,000
- Second offense without injury in seven years or less from previous charge: 10 days to six months in jail or house arrest, alcohol rehabilitation, fines from $750 to $1,000
Felony DUI
The repercussions of a felony DUI are long-lasting and can severely impact your future and quality of life. Penalties for a felony DUI include:
- Third DUI within seven years: One to six years imprisonment and fines up to $5,000
- Any DUI offense resulting in substantial injury or death: Two to 20 years in prison and fines between $2,000 and $5,000
- Any subsequent felony DUI offense: Two to 15 years in prison and fines up to $5,000
Felony DUIs entail harsher penalties, including extensive jail time, higher fines, and a more extended license suspension period.
What if I Just Got a DUI in Las Vegas?
From the moment you come in contact with law enforcement, remain calm and cooperative. The first few hours can dramatically impact the outcome of your situation, so remember the following steps:
- Because anything you say could incriminate you further, tell the arresting officer that you wish to invoke your right to remain silent and ask for an attorney.
- Do not discuss the charges with anyone other than your attorney, including in phone calls to a loved one.
Contact the Las Vegas Experienced DUI Defense Attorneys at Adras & Altig
You deserve a vigorous defense from a legal team who wants what is best for your future. A DUI charge feels overwhelming, but with experienced legal counsel, you could improve your chances of avoiding jail, license suspension, and other penalties. Remember, it’s always best to stay calm and only speak to the police with a skilled Las Vegas DUI lawyer by your side. Contact us today for a free consultation.
This article was previously published in July 2019 and updated for relevance in October 2023.
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At Adras & Altig, we believe that every client we work with deserves a fresh start. Our dedicated Las Vegas criminal defense attorneys take the time to get to know you so we can understand the circumstances surrounding your arrest.