If you’re facing a DUI, you probably know that you need a defense against the criminal charges. If you don’t defend yourself, you could face significant financial penalties, time in jail and other punishments.
What you may not realize is that you could end up facing civil penalties, too. Those penalties are completely separate from the criminal charges.
Civil penalties could include losing your license
One thing many people don’t realize is that you can still lose your license, even if you’re acquitted of the DUI charges. The DUI criminal proceedings are separate from the civil proceedings. That means that you could end up having the criminal charges dropped but still face civil penalties.
The Department of Motor Vehicles hearing is an administrative hearing. What that means is that a hearing officer can determine that it was probable that you were driving while impaired and take away your license. Your license may be suspended or revoked, and you won’t be able to drive in any state.
How can an attorney help?
Your attorney can help you in a few ways. First, they’ll be there to help you fight the DUI charges and seek an acquittal or to have the case dismissed. Second, they will be there to negotiate for you if you face civil penalties, like the loss of your license.
Our website has more information on DUIs and why it is so important to have someone on your side who understands the laws that could impact you. A DUI is serious, and even without a conviction, it could have a lasting impact on your life.