Anytime you’re cited for driving under the influence, you face potentially stiff criminal penalties as well as restrictions on your ability to drive.
A DUI offense is generally a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine and potentially imprisonment in county jail for up to one year — but typically less. However, under some circumstances, a DUI may be charged as a felony, punishable in some cases by lengthy prison sentences.
What can potentially make a DUI a felony?
- Prior convictions. If you have prior convictions for DUI on your record, you may automatically be charged with a felony for subsequent DUI arrests depending both on the laws in your state and how long it has been since a previous conviction. Even DUI convictions that have been expunged may sometimes count as prior offenses.
- Death or injury. If your DUI resulted in the death of another person, you may be charged with a felony, such as vehicular homicide, vehicular manslaughter, or murder. Even cases where …read moreSource:: Law Blog