Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Montana, and it is important to understand the laws surrounding DUI arrests in the state. A Montana DUI conviction can result in severe consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. In this article, we will explore the rate of DUI arrests in Montana over the past few years and how getting a Montana DUI lawyer can help you beat a DUI charge.

DUI Arrest Rates in Montana

According to the Montana Department of Justice, there were 3,580 DUI arrests in Montana in 2020. This marks a decrease from the 4,059 DUI arrests made in 2019. The majority of DUI arrests in Montana occur in the Billings area, followed by the Missoula and Bozeman areas.

Penalties for DUI in Montana

The penalties for a DUI in Montana can be severe, depending on the circumstances of the case. The following is a general overview of the penalties for DUI in Montana:

First DUI Offense: A fine of up to $1,000, license suspension for six months, possible jail time of up to six months, and possible installation of ignition interlock device (IID).
Second DUI Offense (within five years of the first offense): A fine of up to $2,500, license suspension for one year, mandatory jail time of at least seven days up to six months, and mandatory installation of IID.
Third DUI Offense (within ten years of the second offense): A felony charge, punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. License revocation for one year, mandatory jail time of at least 30 days up to one year, and mandatory installation of IID.
Fourth DUI and Subsequent Offenses: A felony charge, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000. License revocation for one year, mandatory jail time of at least one year, and mandatory installation of IID.

It is important to note that these penalties are a general overview and that the specific penalties for DUI in Montana may vary depending on the circumstances of the case.

Ignition Interlock Devices

In addition to the above penalties, Montana also requires the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) for some DUI offenders. An IID is a device that is installed in a vehicle that requires the driver to blow into it before the car will start. If the device detects alcohol on the driver’s breath, the car will not start.

In Montana, an IID is required for: second and subsequent DUI offenses, first offense with a BAC of 0.15 or higher, and first offense with a passenger under the age of 16 in the vehicle.

The cost of installing and maintaining an IID can be substantial, and it is important to discuss the potential requirement of an IID with your Montana DUI lawyer.

How a Montana DUI Lawyer Can Help You Beat a DUI Charge

If you have been charged with a DUI in Montana, it is essential to seek the assistance of an experienced Montana DUI lawyer. An experienced Montana DUI lawyer can provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need to help you beat your DUI charge.

One of the main ways that a Montana DUI lawyer can help you beat a DUI charge is by investigating the circumstances surrounding your arrest. This includes reviewing the police report, blood alcohol content (BAC) test results, and any other evidence that may have been gathered by the arresting officer. Your Montana DUI lawyer may also question the officer’s actions during the arrest, such as whether they had probable cause to stop you in the first place or if they followed proper procedure during the arrest.