Is a DUI a Felony

If you are charged with a DUI, you might be asking this question to yourself, “Is a DUI a felony?”

There is no one answer to that question. There are different kinds of laws when it comes to drinking under the influence the different states. The state superior court handles these cases, and it is best to learn your state laws regarding this matter. But I will try to discuss a few common facts regarding a DUI being a felony case.

A DUI charge can become a felony if there is reason to believe that the driver was drunk, careless, reckless and negligent. It can also be a felony if somebody was injured as a result of the accident.

A vehicular assault is the term used for drinking under the influence resulting to a serious injury to another person. If a person is killed because of driving drunk, the suspect will most likely get the felony vehicular manslaughter charge. In some cases, a vehicular homicide, which has a higher sentence, is charged against the drunk driver.

If a driver is arrested for DUI for several times already, a felony is possible. States have different laws regarding this, but usually, it is the 4th DUI conviction that is raised to a felony. Those that have more strict laws raise a 2nd or 3rd DUI charge to a felony immediately. I hope that answers the question, “Is a DUI a felony?”

A felony can get you one or more years in the state prison. It should not be mistaken for misdemeanor, which is punishable for only up to a year.

If charged with a felony, looking for a job or applying for loans can be a very difficult task to do. Some landlords and lending companies do not want to do business with somebody who has a felony charge on his or her record.

To get yourself out of this mess, consult an excellent DUI lawyer who can explain your possible options and help you minimize your sentence.