DUI/DWI
DUI/DWI
Being arrested for driving under the influence in Southern Utah means that you have been accused of operating a motor vehicle – such as a car, a motorcycle or an ATV – while under the influence of any one controlled substance. Which may include alcohol, drugs, or medications/prescriptions that impair driving.
If over the age of 21 and you’ve consumed alcohol, a DUI is issued if your blood alcohol content is above the legal limit, which in St. George and Hurricane Utah is .05 percent. When under the age of 21, Southern Utah’s “zero tolerance” law goes into effect. Charging the underage driver with any amount of alcohol in their system. Even below the legal limit. If their BAC is over 0.0, they will be penalized.
DUI convictions in St. George and Hurricane Utah can carry extremely harsh penalties. Possibly leading to loss of your driver’s license and freedom. An arresting officer may also issue tickets for reckless driving that can raise your insurance premiums.
Potential outcomes of recieving a DUI/DWI in the state of Utah include, but are not limited to:
- Large Fines
- Jail Time
- Losing Driver’s License
- Probation Time
- Lapse or Loss of Auto Insurance
- Impounding of Vehicle
Southern Utah DUI/DWI Attorney
If you or a loved one have recently been arrested in Southern Utah or are being investigated for a crime, odds are you are feeling stressed, anxious, and scared. The uncertainty of what to do next when you’ve been accused of a criminal offense can be terrifying, at a time when it is imperative you take immediate action. Most people in St. George and Hurricane Utah aren’t familiar with the justice system, and many may not know what rights they have.
It is important to understand that your case is not over if you have been arrested in the state of Utah. You should invoke your Miranda rights- remain silent and demand legal counsel. The prosecution still has to build a convincing case against you and establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. During this time, you should be meeting with a defense lawyer regularly to plan your legal defense. Doing so gives you the best possible shot at overcoming this huge obstacle in your life and moving on.
When facing a criminal charge of any kind, it is imperative that you seek professional legal advice and representation as soon as possible. You will need an experienced criminal defense attorney. A range of penalties is at stake – everything from fines and community service to long-term prison sentences. An experienced, qualified lawyer is essential to providing an aggressive defense that explores every possible legal avenue and requires the prosecution to prove every aspect of its case. Nathan Reeve heads the firm’s criminal defense practice and is available to vigorously help you with your criminal charges here in Southern Utah. We deal with a number of criminal defense cases in the St. George and Hurricane Utah.
You don’t have to face your charges alone! Let our experienced Criminal Defense Attorney help you. Defend your rights, reputation, and freedom. Ruesch and Reeve also assist with expungements, for when you want to clear your criminal record.
Utah DUI Resources
- DUI Statutes: Driving under the Influence (UT Code 41-6a-502), Penalties for Driving under the Influence (UT Code 41-6a-503)
Sentencing Requirements (UT Code 41-6a-505) - DUI Impounds – Procedures and fees involved in the mandatory impounding of vehicles following a DUI offense (Utah Dept. of Motor Vehicles).
- DUI Sentencing Calculator – Discretionary tool used by judges to see mandatory minimum sentences and statutory sentencing options (Utah State Courts).
- DUI Education – Licensed options for completing court ordered alcohol education following a DUI offense (Utah Dept. of Human Services).