Idaho DUI First Offense | 1st DUI | DUI Attorneys
Even a first offense DUI in Idaho can carry serious penalties.
Idaho DUI Lawyers | First DUI | Idaho DUI Laws
First Offense DUI
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is being in physical control of a motor vehicle while your ability to drive is impaired by alcohol, prescription drugs, illegal drugs, or any combination thereof. A DUI conviction requires two critical elements: 1. Actual physical control of a motor vehicle, and 2. The individual is under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or any intoxicating substance (impaired).
Standard First Offense DUI vs. Excessive DUI
It is illegal for anyone to drive a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or greater. However, even on a first offense the penalties for driving with a BAC of .20 or more are significantly enhanced. This is considered an Excessive DUI and will carry very different penalties than those listed below. Click here for more information on Excessive DUIs.
Punishment for a First Offense DUI in Idaho
If you are convicted of a DUI in Idaho, there are a number of potential penalties for a first offense:
Idaho 1st DUI Penalties - Jail time
"Will I go to jail for a first-offense DUI in Idaho?"
There is no minimum jail time for those receiving a first offense DUI in Idaho. Therefore, those convicted could face no jail time at all. However, the state reserves the right to impose a six-month jail sentence. Likely, any conviction will result in a jail sentence, the amount of time will depend on the severity of the crime. Most first-time DUI offenders can complete their "jail time" through community service, or SLD, instead of actually sitting behind bars.
Idaho 1st DUI Penalties - License Suspension
It's highly likely your license will be suspended for a period of 90 to 180 days, with the first 30 days being absolute. This means that after the first 30 days most drivers can apply for a restricted license to get from work to home and to medical appointments.
Idaho 1st DUI Penalties - Fines
The maximum fine for a misdemeanor DUI conviction is $1,000, but steep fees associated with alcohol education, license reinstatement and more should be expected.
Idaho 1st DUI Penalties - Probation
A conviction for a first offense DUI in Idaho can result in up to 2 years of probation. Probation can either be supervised or unsupervised.
Idaho 1st DUI Penalties - Alcohol Evaluation
Those convicted of drunk driving must complete an alcohol evaluation and comply with any counseling or rehabilitation recommended by the evaluator.
Idaho 1st DUI Penalties - Victims Panel
Those convicted of drunk driving must participate in the Victims Panel, a one day class where people who have had their lives changed due to DUI age given the chance to tell their story.
Idaho 1st DUI Penalties - Ignition Interlock Device Penalty
As of January 1st, 2019 all first time DUI offenders are required to have a one year ignition interlock device in their vehicle. The device, which measures your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) before allowing the car to start, will be installed and maintained at the expense of the driver. To learn more about this rule take a look at the blog article New Harsher Penalties For First Time DUI Offenders.
- For more information about the charge of DUI in Idaho, see Idaho Code §18-8004.
- For more information on Idaho DUI penalties see: Idaho Code §18-8005 - Penalties.
Ada County DUI | Canyon County DUI
Boise DUI Charges | Ada County DUI | Canyon County DUI
While we represent DUI charges across the state of Idaho, many of our clients are in the Boise (Ada County) and Canyon County areas. Charges in Ada County and Canyon County have their own set of potential difficulties. We have vast experience representing clients in both Ada and Canyon County and are prepared for whatever challenges we encounter in your case.
Hire An Idaho DUI Lawyer That Will Fight For You
No two 1st DUI cases are exactly alike. The strength and weakness of your case will depend on the particular facts and circumstances. However, no Idaho DUI case is hopeless. If you are charged with a first offense DUI in Idaho, you need an experienced DUI lawyer that will fight for you. Contact Schofield and Young for a free consultation.
