Thousands of dollars, hundreds of hours, and countless opportunities lost.
Pleading guilty to a DUI charge results in much more than the payment of a small fine. In fact, the penalties that can arise from a DUI conviction are harsh and life altering, and should be carefully considered by every individual.
If convicted of DUI, even for a first offense, a person can face jail time, monetary fines, community service, court-mandated DUI classes, installation of an ignition interlock (Intoxylock) device, license suspension, restitution, vehicle impoundment, probation and parole. In addition, a person would receive a mark on their criminal record, lasting years and which may someday become permanent, as well as points on their driving record.
With indirect costs including higher car insurance payments and loss of potential employment due to disclosing your criminal record as a job applicant, the true cost of a first-time DUI offense can easily exceed $10,000.