Practice Areas

Blog

What is the punishment in Virgtinia for a DUI?

A: That depends on what are the nature of the charges.

A first offense DUI with a BAC of less than 0.15 is punished as a Class 1 misdemeanor. The maximum penalty for a Class 1 misdemeanor is 1 year in jail, a fine of no more than $2500.00, either of both. In the real world, a person convicted of this offense is looking at 30 days in jail, with all of it suspended, a fine of $500.00 with $250.00 suspended, and suspension of driver's license for one year. However,  the judge can issue a restricted driver's license if the person attends the Viriginia Alcohol and Substance Abuse Program (VASAP), which will allow him or her to travel to and from work, to and from school, and to and from court ordered child visitation or to scheduled medical appointments for self or dependant relative.

However, even if the DUI is a first offense, there is mandatory minimum jail time if the BAC is 0.15 or higher. The mandatory minimum fines is increased in such cases, and there may be the requirement that an ignition interlock device on all cars registered to or used by the defendant as a condition for issuance of a restricted license.

It gets worse from here! To see a more detailed explanation, click the "Resources" liink at this website. There you will find specific information relevant to your circumstances.

Free Reports

Free Case Evaluation

FAQs