New Hampshire DUI Consequences
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Every year, thousands of drivers are charged with driving under the influence (DUI). In fact, DUI is one of the most common crimes in the United States, and there’s a pretty good chance that you or someone you know has been arrested for drunk driving. Don’t let these numbers fool you, however—despite its frequency, DUI carries a number of severe criminal penalties. In New Hampshire, for example, a DUI conviction can wreak havoc on your future. Here’s what every driver in the state should know about New Hampshire DUI consequences.
In New Hampshire, the punishment for a first DUI conviction includes a minimum $500 fine and a mandatory license suspension ranging from nine months to two years. In addition, the judge may also require you to complete a court-approved alcohol treatment program. If you were driving with a large amount of alcohol in your system—a determination based on the percentage of alcohol found in your bloodstream (also known as blood alcohol content or BAC)—you may be charged with a more severe offense known as “Aggravated DUI.”
Under state law, any person who operates a vehicle with a BAC of 0.08% or higher is deemed impaired. However, an aggravated DUI charge may be applied in cases where a person is arrested with a BAC of 0.16% or more. If convicted of the offense, an aggravated DUI carries a minimum $750 fine, 18-month license suspension, and a mandatory 10-day jail sentence—and that’s for a first-time offender.
Even if you are not charged with aggravated DUI, you can expect to receive a much tougher sentence if you are convicted of drunk driving and have a previous conviction on your record. As mandated by the state’s sentencing guidelines, a second DUI carries a minimum $750 fine, three-year license suspension, 10-day jail sentence, and completion of an alcohol treatment program.
If you are convicted of three or more DUIs, you’ll face harsher penalties than ever. Along with paying $750 or more in fines, your driving privileges will be suspended for a minimum of five years if you are convicted of a subsequent DUI, and you can also plan to spend at least 180 days in jail.
Of course, the consequences of driving under the influence don’t end once you’ve served your sentence. Like any other criminal offense, a DUI conviction will remain on your record permanently. As a result, you may find it difficult to obtain employment or housing in the future. In some cases, your conviction could even affect your eligibility for certain educational and/or financial aid programs.
It is also important to understand the impact a DUI conviction can have on your budget. In addition to fines, you will be responsible for paying any third-party expenses you incur due to your conviction—such as the cost of your alcohol treatment program and/or license reinstatement fees, for example. You can also plan on paying more for auto insurance once your provider learns about your conviction. Indeed, many drivers are shocked to see their rates double or triple in cost due to their conviction.
With all of the penalties a person faces if he or she is convicted of driving under the influence, it’s always best to obtain legal counsel immediately if you are arrested for DUI. To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with an experienced DUI defense attorney in your area, complete our online form today.
