DUI Convictions Carry a Heavy Burden

October 09, 2010 (Press-News.org) Steve May, a Republican legislative candidate, recently withdrew from the race to claim a seat in the Arizona House of Representatives following revelations that he had been convicted of drunk driving. May was arrested last year and charged with the most severe DUI offense possible. He was picked up north of Phoenix driving 83 mph in a 55 mph speed zone with a blood-alcohol level above 0.20 percent (in Arizona, like in Florida, a blood-alcohol level of 0.08 or higher is considered legally drunk). May was sentenced to 10 days in jail and three years of probation (he was still on probation during his campaign). In a statement announcing the end of his candidacy, May apologized for his involvement in actions that resulted in "political rhetoric, tone and activities not always reflective of my desire to be a uniting, a positive force for good in the community."

Although May likely ended his campaign for a number of reasons, both personal and political, the sharp criticism he faced for his driving under the influence (DUI) conviction is indicative of the negative stigma that follows all DUI offenders in today's society. When most of us think of the punishments for crimes like drunk driving, jail time, probation and fines come to mind. But, the stigma associated with drunk driving (along with other consequences outside the legal system) can be far more harmful.

A Tarnished Record

Most of those facing drunk driving charges just want to receive their punishment and move on with their lives. Often, however, it is not that simple. In Florida, once someone is convicted of DUI, there is no expungement or sealing of the record; that means DUI offenders will have a permanent, lifelong criminal record.

Intense lobbying and public sentiment against drunk driving has led not only to harsher criminal penalties for DUI, it has caused the development of a more harmful social stigma attached to DUI offenders. This can impact relationships with family and friends, and can even affect your job. Many employers look unfavorably on DUI convictions, and with a lifetime criminal record, there is little chance a drunk driving offense will go unnoticed. This is especially true for those who work in the public eye. Without taking immediate steps to lessen the impact of a drunk driving arrest, it can cost you your job. Family, friends, colleagues, and other acquaintances are not the only ones who take notice of DUI convictions: so do certain companies. Insurance costs skyrocket in the wake of DUI charges, if your insurance company still agrees to provide coverage at all, and renting a car becomes a struggle.

There are many other immediate consequences of a DUI conviction. Beyond possible jail time, fines or community service, DUI offenders may face a lengthy loss of driving privileges, required alcohol treatment or the installation of an ignition interlock device (which test a driver's breath for alcohol before allowing a vehicle's engine to start). Ignition interlocks are an inconvenience and an expense (offenders may have to pay installation and service fees for the device); but, they can also increase the stigma connected to a DUI conviction due to the embarrassment caused by having to blow into an interlock device to start your car.

Multiple convictions can even result in felony charges, which, if convicted, can affect a range of life activities, such as the ability to practice in a professional field or the right to own a firearm. This is to say nothing of the disgrace felon status causes to your reputation.

How to Protect Yourself

Once you have been convicted of DUI, it is very difficult to mitigate the drunk driving stigma and other consequences. That is why it is very important to take immediate steps and hire an attorney. The front end of a DUI case is much more important than the back end; if you wait to find out the ramifications before seeking help, it may be too late. Having good counsel at the beginning of the process may reduce the eventual lifelong impact on those charged with DUI.

Drunk driving is a serious charge, and you may feel guilty about getting a DUI charge. But, we all make mistakes, and being charged does not make you guilty. With the help of an experienced DUI attorney, you can be sure your rights will be protected.

Article provided by Bauer Crider Pellegrino & Perry
Visit us at www.floridadefense.com