What to do when you get a DUI in Mississippi
Overwhelming and isolating – getting a DUI in Mississippi can be life or career altering. From the incident to bond hearings and court dates on through the conclusion of the case. What started as a night out ends in a year’s long frustration, fear and stress.
We think it’s best to inform, educate and support. So when you, or your loved one finds themselves charged with DUI you’ll know what to do, what your rights are, and where to find the support you need.
What Constitutes a DUI in Mississippi?
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Mississippi, carrying significant legal consequences that can quickly rise to life consequences. In Mississippi it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. A person can also be charged with DUI in Mississippi for driving under the influence of drugs, including prescription medications and illegal substances.
What to do When You're Pulled Over for Drunk Driving
If you’re suspected of a DUI in Mississippi and pulled over, the officer’s primary objective is to collect evidence for their case and prosecution. They’re not trying to empathize or understand the driver’s circumstances.
Any and all interactions between the officer and the driver can be used as evidence – from conversation to field sobriety and BAC tests. How you handle yourself in this situation is important, and while it might not feel like it, you do have rights.
You might remember when you first got your Driver’s License that if you refuse BAC tests that you can lose your license for up to a year. What you might not know is that a Mississippi DUI lawyer can get a provisional license for you so that you can go to / from work and other life responsibilities. But that doesn’t mean the consequences aren’t grim.
What are the Consequences of a DUI in Mississippi?
A DUI conviction in Mississippi can result in a range of consequences – from small to imposing. The sheer variety is why it’s so important to have quality representation during the proceedings. What could have been a small fine and programs could turn into larger fines and jail. That’s not meant to scare you, but rather to be clear on what is in front of you when you’ve been charged with DUI. Here are some of the possible consequences:
- Jail time ranging from 48 hours for a 1st offense to up to five years for a third offense
- Fines ranging from $250 to $5,000, depending on the number of prior convictions
- License suspension ranging from 90 days to five years
- Mandatory participation in alcohol safety programs and substance abuse treatment
- Potential installation of an ignition interlock device
Enhanced penalties for aggravating factors such as prior convictions or driving with a high BAC
Defenses Against DUI Charges
To mitigate, minimize or outright avoid consequences for a DUI charge in Mississippi you’ll want to have experienced and aggressive representation. From the time you’re charged through the outcome of the case, we’ll mount a defense for you.
There are a number of defenses an attorney might choose to implement on your behalf, and we will exhaust all options to find the best fit for your situation to deliver the most optimal outcome. There are three optional routes to take: Plead guilty, no contest, or not guilty.
Non Adjudication DUI Mississippi
Mississippi DUI non adjudication is pleading guilty to a charge but then the person is not convicted. Judgment is withheld, the defendant goes on probation, and then the charge is dismissed and it can be expunged from your record.
This is an available defense and option if this is your 1st time being charged with drunk driving. But there are several steps to secure it. The defendant will submit to an alcohol safety program, pay fines and fees, and complete a 120-day ignition interlock device (IID).
If secured you’ll avoid permanent conviction and a personal record of its occurrence. However, if another DUI conviction occurs, the non adjudicated case will be considered as a prior conviction.
How to Beat a DUI in Mississippi
The best way to beat a DUI in Mississippi is to not drink and drive. Failing that, in our experience, it’s best to understand the various solutions available through the law and to do your best in not giving the prosecution any additional evidence.
The prosecution is aware of our reputation in trial and that means when they see us in the courtroom on your behalf, they know they have a fight on their hands. That tends to assist the decision they have to make, knowing that we are willing – and capable – of taking this all the way through to trial.
Support Programs and Getting Help
Not everyone needs drug or alcohol support – but some people do. It could be your 1st offense DUI in Mississippi or one of a few that you’ve been charged with. Whatever the number is irrelevant. If you want, are curious about, or need help there are programs in Mississippi for you.
Some of the available options are anonymous programs for alcohol or drugs, inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, and other mental health services. Here’s a quick list of resources in Mississippi:
- Mental Health MIssissippi has a Find Services page for you to find help in your area
- American Addiction Centers has an online form for treatment centers in Mississippi
- Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in Mississippi
- Mississippi Region of Narcotics Anonymous
Why Hire a DUI Attorney in Mississippi
The legal process is daunting – from arrest to conviction, and that’s why it’s important to hire a skilled DUI attorney in Mississippi. We will give you accurate legal advice, negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf, and represent you in court if necessary. Ensuring that your rights are protected every step of the way.
The truth is that law enforcement personnel are always on the lookout for intoxicated drivers. Their enthusiasm to keep roads safe can result in an awful set of consequences for the uninformed driver. That’s why you need to be aware of your rights, and call an attorney as soon as possible.
Any first offense misdemeanor in Mississippi can be expunged (with the exception of traffic tickets) – including DUI. So even if you’ve been convicted of DUI your case may still not be over, and we can help.
We Solve DUI Problems in Mississippi
Just in time representation for your DUI case, you’ll work with a local lawyer from Mississippi.