The federal law that refers to driving under the influence of intoxicants is known by different acronyms in different states. DUI describes driving under the influence in most states, DUII, the acronym for driving under the influence of intoxicants, is used in several others, and elsewhere this offense goes by the acronym DWI, meaning driving while intoxicated. In all 50 states, these acronyms refer to the same crime: a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent. The difference is in the penalties for these crimes, and in some cases the diminutive distinctions between the acronyms is what varies depending on the locality.
For example, the state of Utah uses the acronym DUI to refer to their law. The penalties in Utah for DUI are higher than in many other states. For example,in Utah, a driver’s license will be suspended for 18 months if a person refuses to take a chemical test to determine their blood alcohol content. In contrast, Mississippi, where the law is also called a DUI, a license would be suspended for 90 days.
In the state of Texas, the two acronyms DWI and DUI have separate meanings. The statute for the DWI law involves intoxication that occurs from consuming alcohol as well as drugs. On the other hand, the DUI statute only covers alcohol consumption. These offenses carry different penalties.
A good criminal defense attorney can have a first offense DUI crime reduced to a crime of reckless driving that carries a lesser sentence that leaves the involved vehicle untouched. However, with a DUI conviction, the vehicle will be impounded.
Driving while intoxicated, under any acronym, is a crime in all 50 states. The penalties and the laws vary not only by state but sometimes by city or district. Knowing the laws and the way the system works in different areas is imperative to getting the least penalties. The laws and the penalties vary by state and municipality, so it is always best to have a professional who knows the local laws inside and out to represent you in a DUI case.
Defense attorney David Haenel, Esq. of Finebloom & Haenel has extensive experience litigating DUI, criminal and traffic-related cases in Florida courts. Formerly with the State Attorney’s office, David is now known for defending the rights of Finebloom & Haenel’s clients in cases involving license suspension, DUI, traffic tickets, habitual traffic offender status, criminal traffic charges and other offenses. He is an author, lecturer, and trainer well versed in all aspects of DUI law. Learn more or contact him at www.fightyourcase.com.
Important Notice About the Steven Louth Criminal Law Blog:
This guest blog was written on behalf of another attorney, and does not represent the views or opinions of Steven Louth Law Offices. Steven Louth Law Offices does not guarantee the accuracy of the information contained in this guest blog post, which is for informational purposes only. If you need specific legal advice, speak with Steven Louth Law Offices today to discuss the details of your particular situation.