Tulsa, OK-Each year, across the U.S. over a million motorists are arrested for driving drunk or driving under the influence of drugs. A good proportion of those arrests are of repeat offenders, those who are facing their second, third or fourth DUI arrests. If you happen to be facing a second or a subsequent DUI charge or think you could face repeat offense, it’s important you know the consequences.
In Oklahoma, if you have the misfortune of being convicted of your second DUI, state law dictates that you could be sentenced to one to five years in jail and up to $2,500 in fines. A conviction will also result in your license being suspended for at least 6 months. What’s more, you will be required to install an ignition interlock device in your car once you reinstate your license, the costs of which will come out of your own pocket. And are in addition to all the other costs associated with a DUI and license reinstatement.
If you are convicted of a third DUI in Oklahoma, your potential jail time is up to 10 years, depending on the circumstances of you arrest. Fines can be as high as $5,000, and your license will be suspended for up to one year. You will also be required to install an ignition interlock device in your car.
It is also a requirement for all convicted DUI offenders to participate in a DUI diversion program and it is likely you will be ordered to serve community service as part of your sentencing.
Those are just the consequences you face from the legal system but what many people don’t realize about a DUI is that it can impact your life long after you’ve paid your dues. Because your license is suspended, you could lose your job, especially if you are a driver or live a long distance to and from your workplace. A DUI conviction will show up on a background check and could turn a prospective employer off.
Those are just the immediate legal consequences. If you have been charged with a repeat DUI offense it will be hard for you or your attorney to negotiate a plea bargain. You also more likely to be given a harsher sentence if you are convicted of a repeat offense. You need to take action and get retain a DUI lawyer in Oklahoma immediately to assist you with your defense. USAttorneys can connect with an attorney today. They are your best hope of avoiding a conviction and harsh sentence.
