Nobody wants to get convicted of a DUI in Mississippi. Drunk Driving Defense is here to explain what happens when someone receives a Mississippi DUI conviction so that you can do everything in your power to avoid it.
What Happens if Convicted of DUI in Mississippi? It Depends!
Being convicted of a first offense DUI in Mississippi can lead to fines between $250 and $1,000 plus any state assessments and court expenses. Offenders are also at risk of serving up to forty-eight (48) hours behind bars and are required to complete the Mississippi Alcohol Safety Education Program (MASEP).
The purpose behind these DUI school penalties is both punitive and educational, emphasizing the need for future safe driving and the importance of understanding the risks associated with driving under the influence. Pursuant to NHTSA recommendations, all state DUI laws should require all first-offense DUI offenders to take such re-education classes.
If an individual commits this first offense while endangering a child, but without causing serious injury, the consequences become even more stringent. Such instances may incur fines as high as $1,000 along with potential imprisonment for a duration reaching one (1) year.
These heightened penalties for DUI in Mississippi mirror the state’s rigorous stance on preventing harm to minors due to a driver’s decision to drive after consuming alcohol or drugs. In the Magnolia State, minors are defined as any passenger under the age of 16.
Second DUI in Mississippi and Subsequent Offenses
In Mississippi, the repercussions for a second DUI offense are significantly more severe compared to those faced by first-time offenders. The financial penalties imposed can vary from $600 to as much as $1,500. Individuals convicted of such an offense are subject to a minimum incarceration period of five days which could extend up to half a year.
Other punitive measures also may be imposed, such as including mandated community service activities and undergoing treatment assessments and to follow recommended treatment regimens. The person also can be placed on probation for a duration of two (2) years.
In addition to having to attend DUI classes near me, as part of a sentencing. Another “risk awareness” requirement is usually required, which is attendance at a victim impact panel may be required by the sentencing judge, either as part of the judicial process or as an alternative to serving jail time.
The DUI penalties associated with a second DUI offense in Mississippi include:
- Financial fines between $600 and $1,500
- Jail time starting at five (5) days but potentially extending to as long as six months
- Compulsory participation in community service initiatives
- Undergoing assessment for potential substance abuse treatment programs
- Possible supervision under probation lasting possibly up to two (2) years
Having been found guilty of three (3) instances within 5 years (using dates of arrest to measure) this equates to a felony-level offense within this jurisdiction. As expected, (if convicted) felonies result in substantially tougher punishment prospects such as considerably lengthy periods behind bars.
In addition, any 4th offense DUI or DWI for a Mississippi licensee in his or her LIFETIME will permanently revoke that driver’s Mississippi license. The State of Mississippi will “count” any prior impaired driving convictions in any other states even if that driver had a different state’s driver license when convicted.
Aggravated MS DUI Penalties
In Mississippi, the repercussions for aggravated DUI offenses are particularly harsh when the arrest is the result of a serious bodily injury or fatality to others. If convicted, individuals face a significant prison sentence ranging from five to 25 years for each charge (meaning that if three other people are injured, the person is facing up to 75 years behind bars.
These stringent consequences emphasize the seriousness with which these felony crimes are regarded. The Legislature’s aim was to discourage the most dangerous types of driving behaviors when that operator was driving under the influence.
Should an aggravated DUI involve child endangerment leading to severe injury or death, the punishment is similarly very punitive. Offenders may be subjected to at least a $10,000 fine and plus incarceration lasting anywhere between five (5) and 25 years. Such legal provisions reflect the Mississippi Legislature’s commitment to safeguarding those who are most vulnerable to the dangers of impaired driving.
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License Suspension and Restricted Driving Privileges
The DUI statutes in Mississippi encompass the operation of motor vehicles in all areas, whether publicly or privately owned. Upon being convicted of DUI, an individual may face revocation of their license to drive legally. It is also possible for the state to have any motor vehicle owned by someone found guilty to be fitted with an ignition interlock device.
For those who must use their car for employment purposes after receiving a DUI conviction, judges have the discretion to mandate that they install an ignition interlock device within their vehicle. This condition permits them to retain some driving privileges while simultaneously safeguarding public safety.
Driver’s License Suspension Periods
Individuals charged with their first DUI offense in Mississippi could have their driving privileges revoked for a period of 90 days. In addition, the person can be ordered to spend as much as 48 hours behind bars.
Upon being convicted of a second DUI in MS, the consequence is a driver’s license suspension that extends for one (1) year. For those who commit a third DUI, the revocation of driving privileges endures throughout the entirety of their sentence term.
Ignition Interlock Device Requirements
Someone with a repeat offense may be eligible to secure an interlock-restricted license following their release from custody. Such devices require the driver to blow into a breathalyzer device that is wired into their ignition cabling. These repeat offense drivers can only operate a vehicle that is equipped with an ignition interlock device.
Before one can acquire an interlock restricted license in Mississippi, it is essential to install an ignition interlock device in the vehicle. Typically required for individuals with commercial driving responsibilities and those found guilty of aggravated DUI, there is also a charge for installation, monthly downloads and inspection of the equipment, and a daily rental cost associated with these alcohol interdiction devices.
The implementation of these devices serves as a proactive measure to curb subsequent violations by guaranteeing that drivers are incapable of starting their vehicles if impaired. This reflects Mississippi’s dedication to diminishing repeat instances of DUI and improving safety on its roadways.
Hardship Licenses and Restricted Driving
In the state of Mississippi, individuals facing DUI charges can seek hardship licenses which enable them to preserve certain driving privileges while their standard license is suspended. Eligibility for such a license requires adherence to judicially mandated stipulations that include participation in an alcohol safety education program.
To secure an interlock-restricted license, it’s necessary for offenders to install an ignition interlock device on any vehicle they intend to drive. The installation of this device facilitates the offender’s ability to carry out routine tasks via motor transportation yet simultaneously upholds public safety standards by controlling their ability to operate vehicles safely.
Call Drunk Driving Defense Today To Start Fighting A Mississippi DUI Conviction!
After being arrested for a DUI in Mississippi, the WORST THING to do is waiting too long to act.
By calling our 24-hour toll-free line, you will have the opportunity to speak directly with a real person who will guide you through the steps of fighting your DUI charges. By simply calling our DUI attorneys near me at 1-888-839-4384, you will have the opportunity to receive a no-cost consultation to assess the nature of the obstacles you are currently confronting.
By calling the co-authors of Mississippi’s leading book on driving under the influence prosecutions, you give yourself an edge over others facing your same predicament. Since THE CALL IS FREE, what are you waiting for?
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More Information About DUI Convictions in Mississippi
If you’d like to learn more about DUI convictions in Mississippi or learn more about Mississippi DUI laws, read some of our informative articles below.