About goDUI.org

Each state prefers a different legal term to refer to the offense of drunk driving including DUI, DWI, OUI, OWI, OWID and OUID. There are variances in the legal applications of each of these, but generally, the term DUI is commonly known and used across the country when referring to a variety of offenses involving driving while impaired from alcohol, drugs or both.

DUI affects people of all ages, economic and social standings. In what other situation could you find Congressmen, teachers, newscasters, preachers, doctors, lawyers and Hollywood starlets all breaking the same law? The biggest difference among them is that the wise ones seek out an attorney who specializes in DUI. Laws have strengthened across the nation and it is no longer wise to deal with a DUI charge without an attorney with experience fighting DUIs.

Drunk driving is a crime that is universally looked down upon by society as being unacceptable as public awareness of the issue has skyrocketed. As a result, lawmakers have been vigilant in passing newer and stricter laws, each with punishments more punitive than the last. The best plan is 100% abstinence: if you drink, don’t drive. Even though it is not against the law to drink and drive, chances are you can be arrested if you do. And the impact of an arrest can be surprisingly painful unless you’re familiar with current DUI laws in your state.

An arrest can affect your family, your friends, your job, your finances, and even your freedom. All states have some combination of fines, fees, alcohol education and loss of license for a first time DUI conviction. Some states even require you to install embarrassing “Whiskey Plates” to replace your automobile tag. And in all circumstances, your auto insurance will increase as a newly designated high risk driver. Most states’ laws dictate mandatory jail time as well. A conviction will usually remain on your record forever, depending on the state and the circumstances.

Most people aren’t aware of it, but there is a national data sharing program in effect called the National Driver’s License Compact whereby states share driving information with other states. Generally this means that an infraction in one state counts as an infraction everywhere, and will go on your record as a prior anywhere in the nation. If you’ve been convicted of a DUI in your home state, a later first conviction in another state will be treated as a second conviction and appropriate penalties will apply. This can even prohibit you from getting a driver’s license if you move to another state. Currently, there are 45 states which participate in the Interstate Driver’s License Compact.

Here you will find links to your state where you will be able to contact an attorney with experience in DUI in your state. The contact is easy and is an excellent way for you to get your questions answered free of charge. The attorney will engage in a free consultation with you regarding your case, and will map out a plan of action for your defense.

At the end of the day, again, the best solution is abstinence. Don’t take a chance on an arrest, an accident, or even an accident with injury to you or someone else. Assign a designated driver. Call a taxi. Virtually all restaurants and bars today keep taxi numbers handy. Many cities have services that will pick you up and drive you home in your own vehicle so you don’t have to worry about picking it up the next day. The ramifications of a DUI are not worth the risk. Be safe, not sorry. Contact one of our DUI attorneys in your area today for a free consultation. Penalties will require a response on some issues in a matter of just a few days or you will automatically lose your license.