Put Prosecution Experience On Your Side

Defending You Against DUI Charges

If you’ve been charged with a DUI offense, you’re facing a serious criminal charge that could have a lasting effect on your life and your ability to work. Don’t assume that your only option is to plead guilty! The legal team at North Idaho Law Group, PLLC, will work hard to fight the charges and mitigate the consequences you face by challenging the evidence against you and exposing any mistakes made by the arresting officers.

Our firm’s founder, Dana Bowes, worked in the Kootenai County prosecutor’s office while she was attending law school. She understands how the state builds cases, and she uses that knowledge to better defend her clients. You will benefit from Dana’s extensive training in and knowledge of DUI law. She receives ongoing training from the American Association of Premier DUI Attorneys, and she even attends training sessions given to members of law enforcement. When facing drunk driving charges, Dana is the advocate you want in your corner.

Penalties For A DUI Conviction In The State Of Idaho

In Idaho, a first-time conviction for a DUI is typically categorized as a misdemeanor, but the penalties can still be severe. For a first offense, a driver convicted of a DUI may face the following penalties:

  • Up to six months in jail or up to one year if the driver’s BAC is .20% or greater
  • Fines up to $1,000 or up to $2,000 if the driver’s BAC is .20% or greater
  • License suspension lasting 90 to 210 days or one year if the driver’s BAC is .20% or greater
  • Required use of an interlock ignition device for one year

The penalties for second and third offenses, of course, can be even more severe. But remember that you do have options. The best way to understand those options is to discuss them with an experienced attorney at our firm.

Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Defense

Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive from prospective clients charged with a DUI offense.

How long does a DUI stay on your criminal record in Idaho?

Unfortunately, a DUI conviction will remain on your record forever. That’s why it is so important to explore options other than simply pleading guilty.

How will a DUI affect my employment?

If you need to drive for work, a DUI conviction could mean the loss of your job. And if you have a commercial driver’s license, a DUI conviction is often a career-ending offense, even if you were arrested in your personal vehicle.

Is there an effective defense to DUI charges?

Yes, there are many defense strategies available, depending on the facts of your case. Even if you think there is strong evidence of guilt, the prosecution’s case may not be as strong as it first seems. Perhaps the police officer didn’t have a legal reason for stopping you in the first place. Maybe the officer failed to follow proper procedure when administering field sobriety tests or a breathalyzer test. Maybe the testing equipment wasn’t working properly and was in need of calibration. By exposing weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, we may be able to secure an acquittal or plead to a less-serious offense.

In addition to DUI defense, we also offer legal representation for other traffic violations and can help you get your driver’s license reinstated.

Discuss Your Legal Options With An Attorney For Free

To discover how an attorney from North Idaho Law Group, PLLC, can help you protect your freedom and your future, contact our office in Post Falls to schedule a free initial consultation. You can email the firm or call 208-777-8861.