Factors That Worsen A DUI Case

Getting a DUI is never a good thing, but there are factors around DUI charges that make them even worse. The legal system calls these enhancement factors. An enhancement factor is a detail of the event that worsens the impact of the crime and the consequences. Here are some of the main factors that will exacerbate a DUI case, and these are essential to know if you are currently facing a DUI charge.

Driving Without a Valid License

Driving while impaired is not a wise decision, but driving without a license is not smart either. When you combine these two events, you place yourself in a precarious position. If you get caught drinking and driving and do not have a valid driver's license, you should expect harsher consequences to the charges. Driving impaired and driving without a license are both illegal and can result in legal issues.

High BAC

BAC stands for blood-alcohol concentration, and it refers to the amount of alcohol that is currently in your system. All states set a legal limit of 0.08. If you get caught with a BAC above this, you can end up in jail for a DUI charge. If your BAC level is much higher than this, your consequences may be more severe.

Passengers

You may also face steeper consequences if you had passengers in the vehicle during the arrest. Not only are you endangering yourself when driving while impaired, but having passengers puts those individuals at risk too. If the passengers were children, you should expect the court to place severe consequences on your charges.

On Probation

Another enhancement is probation. If you are currently on probation for another criminal charge, you may end up with more legal issues for the DUI and the past charges. When you are on probation, you must follow a set of guidelines. One of the guidelines is to avoid further legal problems during the time you are on probation. If you get a DUI charge while you are on probation, it means you violated the conditions of your probation.

Repeat Offenses

You will also face worsened consequences if this is not your first DUI charge. If you had one in the past, getting another one makes you a repeat offender.

If you are facing a DUI charge and have any of these enhancements, you should look for experienced DUI attorney services for help. To get advice for your case, call a law firm today.