If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Louisiana, you could face severe consequences – even if it is your first time.|
The penalties for DUIs and DWIs in Louisiana can affect the rest of your life, as well as your reputation. It’s important to know what steps you can take if pulled over for a DUI, and what penalties you might face if charged.
Our team of New Orleans-based criminal defense DUI attorneys at Crescent City Law Firm is here to walk you through what penalties you’ll face for a DUI in Louisiana.
Do you go to jail on a first offense DUI in Louisiana?
Yes, you can go to jail for your first DWI (also known as “Driving While Intoxicated,” or “DUI” – “Driving Under the Influence”) in Louisiana.
This occurs when you are arrested for illegally operating an automobile, truck, aircraft, boat, or vessel while impaired by alcohol and/or drugs.
A first offense DUI is classified as a misdemeanor, and can come with these penalties:
- 10 days to 6 months in jail
- $300-$1,000 in fines
- Court-mandated community service
- Substance abuse evaluation and/or treatment
- License suspension for one year
Additionally, if your blood alcohol content was over .15 at the time of the incident, then 48 hours of the jail sentence cannot be suspended. In some cases, judges in Louisiana grant home arrest, but this is not always the case.
If your blood alcohol content was over .20, then you’ll face at least 48 hours of mandatory jail time, $750-$1,000 in fines, and an ignition interlock device for 12 months.
If you are arrested for driving under the influence more than once, the penalties are even more severe.
Penalties for DUIs in Louisiana
A second-offense DUI is also classified as a misdemeanor and can come with these penalties:
- 30 days to 6 months in jail
- $750 to $1,000 in fines
- 240 hours of community service
- Substance abuse evaluation and/or treatment
- License suspension for two years
A third-offense DUI in Louisiana is classified as a felony and can come with these penalties:
- 1 to 5 years in jail, with or without hard labor
- $2,000 in fines
- 240 hours of community service
- Substance abuse evaluation and/or treatment
- License suspension and/or seizure of the offender’s vehicle
A fourth or subsequent offense DUI is also classified as a felony and can come with these penalties:
- 10 to 30 years in prison
- $5,000 in fines
- 320 hours of community service
- Substance abuse evaluation and/or treatment
- License suspension and/or seizure of the offender’s vehicle
Even once you have completed your jail time, community service, and other immediate penalties, the DUI will continue to impact the rest of your life.
In Louisiana, it will remain on your record permanently, putting at risk your future employment and housing opportunities. Additionally, you’ll be classified as a “high-risk” driver by insurance companies, meaning you’ll have to pay high premiums.
To protect your rights and your reputation, it is imperative to get in contact with experienced DUI lawyers as soon as possible to help with your case. They may get your DUI case dismissed, and they will stand up for you in court.
Contact Crescent City Law Today
If you have been arrested for a DUI in New Orleans, it is crucial to seek professional legal representation to navigate through the complexities of the legal system.
Crescent City Law is committed to protecting your rights and mounting a strong defense on your behalf. Remember, even after the case is over, the consequences of a DUI can have long-lasting effects. Stay informed, make responsible choices, and remember that Crescent City Law is here to help you through these challenging times. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
