The criminal penalties associated with a DUI conviction – jail time, fines, and probation – are no joke. Those penalties as well as collateral consequences such as higher insurance rates and trouble passing background checks are enough to haunt you for many years.

Despite the harshness of those consequences, the impact a DUI arrest and conviction has on your ability to drive is just as, if not more, damaging. These civil consequences require the attention of a proven DUI defense lawyer as soon as possible after you are arrested for DUI.

You can lose your driver’s license in the following ways:

• Refusing a test during your first DUI arrest results in a one year driver’s license suspension
• Testing above .08 BAC during your first DUI arrest results in a six month driver’s license suspension
• Refusing a test during your second arrest within five years of the prior arrest will result in a three year suspension
• Testing above .08 BAC during your second arrest within five years of the prior arrest will result in a one year suspension

These civil and administrative penalties will result in you being without the legal means to transport you and your loved ones. In communities that lack public transportation, this can be just as damaging as any criminal consequence, resulting in an inability to earn a living and manage your household.

Do you drive for a living? Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) holders face more severe consequences. For example, refusing a field sobriety test, blood test, breath test, or urine test will result in their CDL being disqualified. Blowing over .04 BAC will also result in their CDL being disqualified.

The civil and administrative penalties associated with DUI can harm you long before the criminal component of your case is resolved. It is crucial to seek the advice and representation of an experienced DUI defense lawyer immediately if you are arrested for DUI.