Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense that can have serious consequences. In most cases, a DUI is charged as a misdemeanor, but in certain circumstances, it can be charged as a felony. In this article, we'll explore what makes a DUI a felony and the potential consequences of such an offense.In general, a first-time DUI offense is usually charged as a misdemeanor. However, if you cause serious injury or death to another person as a result of your drunk driving, you may face felony charges.
Additionally, if you are arrested for DUI while violating other laws at the same time, the charge may be elevated to a felony level. For example, if you drive with a suspended license and are arrested for driving while intoxicated, the offense may be considered a felony.If your license is restricted, suspended or revoked, it's very bad news to get caught for DUI. In general, it is possible to be convicted of DUI as either a misdemeanor or a felony. A standard first offense is almost always going to be a misdemeanor.
But if you kill or seriously injure another person while driving drunk, you may face felony charges even if it is your first offense.You may also face vehicular homicide charges for a drunk driving-related murder. In general, Texas DWI Texas would be charged as a felony when you have committed a third DWI offense or beyond that. But under some conditions, even your first or second offense could result in a felony charge.Most drunk driving arrests involve misdemeanor charges, which are more serious than offenses. A misdemeanor DUI offense is more likely to result in jail time of up to one year and punitive fines.
You have the right to a trial if you face misdemeanor charges.In some states, if you cause injury to anyone other than yourself while driving under the influence (DUI), you may be charged with DUI under vehicle code 23153 that causes injuries. While in many situations, DUIs are considered misdemeanors, felony DUI charges are also possible.In some states, a DUI can be charged as a felony if the driver was involved in an accident that caused someone to be injured or killed. But in general, the presence of certain aggravating factors can elevate a DUI to a felony. Generally, these aggravating factors include having been previously convicted of at least two previous DWI misdemeanors.If you pass a stop sign while intoxicated and collide with another vehicle, you may be charged with serious DUI if your passengers or people in the other vehicle are injured.
If you have three antecedents, it is very likely that another DUI will be charged as a felony, whether you caused an injury or not.And generally, the license suspension period for a DUI conviction that is a felony is going to be longer than for a misdemeanor conviction. If you are convicted of felony DUI in Texas, your license will be suspended for up to two years.It's important to understand that being charged with DUI can have serious consequences and can lead to jail time and hefty fines. If you are facing DUI charges in Texas or any other state, it's important to seek legal advice from an experienced attorney who can help protect your rights and ensure that your case is handled properly.
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