If you’re arrested in Mississippi for a DWI or DUI and you refuse a blood or breathalyzer test, you face a criminal case and an administrative hearing. If there is a conviction, you may be facing jail time, fines and a mandatory alcohol education program. And a conviction of a DUI or DWI may even cause the loss of employment. The hearing with the Department of Public Safety is where you may have your license suspended for refusing the breathalyzer test, urine or blood test.
The Basics: Attorney Robert Laher
In the state of Mississippi, it’s illegal to drive while under the influence of alcohol or having a blood alcohol level (BAC) of .08 percent or more. And if you’re under 21, a BAC level of .02 percent or more is illegal. Those with a BAC content of .08 percent or more have their driver’s license seized. Those who have their license seized may be given a temporary driving permit pending the trial.
The Trial and DWI/DUI Penalties: The Laher Law Firm
The first DWI/DUI trial takes place in either the municipal or justice court. If you’re found guilty, you can appeal to the county court. Appeals must be filed within 30 days of the conviction. However, if you are found guilty in the county court, you may appeal to the circuit court.
Criminal penalties in the state of Mississippi for DUI and DWI cases are serious. Convictions are kept on your criminal record for five years. This means that additional offenses within that time period can trigger more serious punishment. Third-offense DUI and DWI cases in Mississippi are treated as felonies. Plus, you could face forfeiture or impoundment of your car. DUI or DWI cases that result in the death or disfigurement of another person face a minimum of five years in the state penitentiary.
If you’ve been charged with a DUI or DWI, turn to the Laher Law Firm for the best outcome. It may be possible to develop a defense. Common defenses include malfunctioning breathalyzer, no probable cause or improper police proceedings. The Laher Law Firm had handled countless DUI and DWI cases and has the experience to help you with your defense. This law firm is known to work closely with clients and keeps them in the loop with the criminal justice process.