What Happens If I Violate My DUI Probation?

Probation is an opportunity to spend little or no time in jail even if convicted of a crime, but this option is only available for a select few in certain situations. It is a heavy burden to receive a probation sentence for DUI. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is very serious, and being charged with this type of crime has a big effect on your probation sentence.

Punishment For Violation of Probation

Violating your probation is a serious offense, and can result in immediate placement in jail, along with other punishments. It is critical to contact your DUI attorney as soon as you learn that you are being charged with a probation violation, so that he or she can fight for your rights. Probation periods are strict and difficult to follow for some people, but they are preferable to time in a state prison.

Most people view a probation violation as a go directly to jail card, and this is true in the majority of cases. However, the original sentence should not be your only concern if you violate your probation. There may be additional impositions, depending on a variety of factors. . It is a separate offense from your original charge, and you could wind up with additional probation time, loss of driving privileges, and other punishments, depending on the individual circumstances.

Conditions of DUI Probations

Most people receive restricted driving privileges during a period of probation, so you can still continue to work or go to school as usual as long as you do not violate the probation. There are a variety of ways that probation can be violated, depending on state law and other factors individual to the case. The easiest is a repeat offense of any kind, since this is an automatic probation violation in many states. Those on probation after a DUI are pretty much expected to behave like model citizens throughout the duration of the probation period.

Other requirements may include having to wear a device to monitor your BAC or checking in for random sobriety/drug tests. You will likely have fees to pay, both to the court system and the DMV (or whoever monitors driving privileges in your area). You may even be asked to attend mandatory alcohol education classes or rehabilitation, depending on other factors in the case. Different states have different requirements and conditions associated with DUI probation, and your case may be treated differently if you violate your probation.

This information is provided solely for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.

William Bly of The Law Office of William T. Bly is a defense lawyer who spends part of his practice on drunk driving related issues, like DUI consequences. To read more information, visit the firm's website today. www.portlanddrunkdriving.com