Going through DUI charges in Nevada can be a stressful experience. Aside from trying to find a lawyer to handle your case, you’re also worried about the penalties associated with the charge.
Will I lose my license or have it suspended? Could I go to jail for this?
You have a lot of questions about DUI in Nevada, and luckily, we have the answers you need.
What You Need to Know About DUI in Nevada
Sometimes one drink too many can cause a lot of legal problems. DUI charges in Nevada are serious, and shouldn’t be taken lightly.
Professional legal help can make all of the difference when you’re facing DUI charges. Once you read the penalties for a Nevada DUI, you’ll be eager to find an attorney to represent you.
A lawyer may seem like an additional cost, but people with good legal representation often have better case outcomes. In the end, getting a lawyer can end up saving you money.
The most important thing to keep in mind about Nevada DUI penalties is that the number of offenses you have matters significantly. The penalties associated with a one-time offense are very different from penalties for multiple offenses.
Regardless of if you are a first or third-time offender, we have the information you need. Here’s our quick guide on DUI penalties in relationship to the number of offenses.
First Offense
Jail time for first-time offenses can vary. Some judges may choose to order that you serve 48 to 96 hours of community service in lieu of minimum jail time. Others can recommend anywhere from 2 to 180 days.
You can expect to pay at least $400 in fines. Keep in mind that you’ll also have to pay court fees on top of your fine, so even a first-time offense can get very costly.
You’ll be required to use an ignition interlocking device (IID) if you’re convicted for at least 185 days. Also, you can expect to lose your license for at least 185 days and may be required to enroll in a substance abuse treatment program.
Second Offense
People facing a second DUI offense could spend anywhere from 10 to 180 days in jail. It’s also possible that the judge may order home confinement instead of traditional jail time.
Fines for second-time offenders are a minimum of $700. You may have the chance to serve the equivalent number of community service hours in lieu of paying a fine.
Second-time offenders will have to use an IID for the same amount of time as first-time offenders. They can lose their license for up to one year, and could even have their car’s registration suspended.
Third Offense
Third-time offenders face the most harsh penalties for DUI in Nevada.
Jail time can last anywhere from 1 to 6 years, and some judges may not give you the option to cut down the sentence with community service. They also have the highest fines, starting at $2,000.
People with a third DUI offense face the possibility of having their license suspended for at least 3 years and may have their car registration suspended.
Get Help From an Experienced DUI Attorney
If you get a DUI in Nevada, you need legal help. High fines, the loss of your license, and potential jail time are serious penalties, but they could be avoided with the right legal representation.
Having an experienced attorney by your side can help you navigate the legal system and get the best possible outcome for your case.
The Hill Firm’s team of legal experts can give you the help you need. For a free consultation, call The Hill Firm at (702)-848-5000 today!