Jackson, MS DUI Lawyer

Facing your first DUI in Jackson can feel overwhelming, frightening, and isolating. One moment you’re driving home, and the next you’re pulled over, tested, and placed under arrest. Suddenly, you’re worried about your freedom, your driver’s license, your job, and even your reputation in the community.

I want you to know that you’re not alone in this. As a Jackson DUI lawyer, I have helped many people in your position understand their legal rights, protect their future, and move forward after a mistake.

If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Hinds County, the decisions you make in the next few days are critical. From requesting a driver’s license hearing with the Mississippi Department of Public Safety to preparing for your first court appearance, there are important deadlines and procedures that can directly affect your case.

My role is to guide you through every step of the process, fight for the best possible outcome, and help reduce the stress you’re facing.

If you’re facing a DUI charge in Jackson, call 1-888-839-4384 or use our online contact form for a free consultation with a Mississippi DUI lawyer today!

Understanding Your DUI Charge in Jackson

When you’re arrested for a first DUI in Jackson, it’s important to understand what the law actually says. Mississippi DUI laws are strict and unforgiving.

Under Mississippi Code § 63-11-30, you can be charged with driving under the influence if:

• Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher (for drivers over 21).
• Your BAC is 0.04% or higher if you hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL).
• Your BAC is 0.02% or higher if you are under 21. 
• You are impaired by alcohol or drugs to the point that your ability to operate a vehicle is compromised, even if your BAC is below the legal limit. 

DUI Penalties in Jackson, Mississippi

In the State of Mississippi, the penalties for a first-time DUI conviction may include:

• A fine of $250 to $1,000. 
• Up to 48 hours in jail (though in many cases, this may be suspended if you complete a court-ordered alcohol safety program).
• Mandatory completion of the Mississippi Alcohol Safety Education Program (MASEP).
• Driver’s license suspension for 90 days (or up to 120 days if you refuse a chemical test under Mississippi’s implied consent law).

It’s important to note that if there were aggravating factors, such as having a child under 16 in the car, causing an accident with injuries, or refusing a breath test, the consequences can be even more severe.

Immediate Steps to Take After a DUI Arrest in Jackson

If you’ve just been arrested for your first DUI in Jackson, here are the steps you should take immediately to protect yourself:

1. Stay calm and respectful. Arguing or resisting can make matters worse and may even result in additional charges.
2. Know your rights. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say to law enforcement can and likely will be used against you in court.
3. Document everything. Write down the details of your arrest while they’re fresh in your mind—where you were stopped, what the officer said, and how the field sobriety or breath tests were conducted.
4. Request an administrative hearing quickly. In Mississippi, you only have 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a hearing with the Department of Public Safety to contest your license suspension. Missing this deadline could mean an automatic suspension, even before your criminal case is resolved.
5. Contact a Jackson DUI lawyer right away! A local attorney can act quickly to protect your license, challenge the evidence, and begin building your defense.

Preparing for the Legal Process in Jackson

The court process for a first DUI in Jackson usually begins with an arraignment in Jackson Municipal Court if you were arrested within city limits, or in Hinds County Justice Court if outside the city. At your arraignment, you will be formally advised of your charges and asked to enter a plea.

From there, your DUI case may involve several stages:

• Discovery and evidence review: Your criminal defense attorney will review police reports, bodycam footage, breathalyzer calibration records, and witness statements. Any errors in procedure or violations of your rights can be grounds for challenging the charge.
• Pre-trial motions: A skilled attorney may file motions to suppress evidence if the stop was unlawful, the breath test was improperly administered, or your rights were violated.
• Negotiations: In some first-offense cases, it may be possible to negotiate reduced penalties, avoid jail time, or seek alternatives like non-adjudication through MASEP.
• Trial: If your case proceeds to trial, your Jackson DUI lawyer will present your defense, cross-examine the arresting police officer, and argue for your acquittal.

Moving Forward After a First DUI in Jackson

A first DUI in Jackson does not have to define your life or your future. While the situation is serious, there are legal defense strategies that can protect your rights and reduce the long-term impact on your career, family, and freedom.

With the right DUI defense, you may be able to:

• Minimize fines and avoid unnecessary jail time. 
• Keep your driver’s license or qualify for a restricted license so you can continue to work. 
• Challenge inaccurate test results or unlawful police procedures. 
• Explore options for non-adjudication, which may allow you to avoid a conviction on your record if you meet certain conditions. 

I know how stressful this is for you, and my goal as your DUI lawyer in Jackson is to give you clear guidance, fight aggressively on your behalf, and help you move forward with your life.

Talk To An Experienced DUI Attorney in Jackson, MS Today

If you are facing a first DUI in Jackson, the clock is already ticking. You have limited time to request a hearing to protect your driver’s license, and the earlier you begin building your defense, the stronger your chances will be for avoiding a DUI conviction.

I encourage you to reach out to a dedicated Jackson DUI lawyer as soon as possible. I’m here to listen to your story, evaluate your case, and fight to protect your rights, criminal record, and your future.

Call 1-888-839-4384 for a free consultation with an experienced Jackson DUI attorney now!