NEW ORLEANS DUI LAWYER

Louisiana DUI Penalties  

The penalties for a DUI in New Orleans can be severe and depend on your BAC as well as if you have had previous DUI convictions.

First DUI

If you are convicted for the first time, you will face the following penalties:

• Fine of up to $1,000
• Up to 48 hours in jail
• Up to two years probation
• Community service
• 30 hours driver’s education

If your BAC was over 0.15, you will face the following penalties in addition to the ones above:

• 48 additional hours in jail (mandatory).

If your BAC was over 0.20:

• 48 additional hours in jail (mandatory).
• An ignition interlock device must be installed in your vehicle. The ignition interlock device will require you to pass a breath test before you can start your vehicle.
• Fine of up to $1,000.

Second DUI

If you are charged with a second DUI, the penalties are more severe:

• Fine of $750 to $1,000.
• Up to 6 months probation.
• Up to 30 days in jail.
• Community service.
• Attend a court-approved substance abuse program.
• Have an ignition interlock device installed for six months.

These penalties all increase if your BAC is over 0.15.

Third DUI

A third DUI is considered a felony in Louisiana. Penalties include:

• Fines up to $2,000.
• Up to 5 years in prison.
• Community service.
• Up to 5 years probation.
• Substance abuse evaluation and treatment.
• House arrest for at least 6 months.
• An ignition interlock device will be installed.

Lookback Period for Louisiana DUIs 

A lookback period is the length of time a previous DUI offense can be used against you in future charges and when considering sentencing. Louisiana’s lookback period is 10 years. This means that any DUI convictions (from any state) within the last 10 years will be considered if you are charged with driving under the influence. If you had a previous conviction more than 10 years ago, you may be charged as a first-time offender.

Reinstatement of Driving Privileges after a DUI 

If your driver’s license has been suspended because of a DUI, you may be required to reinstate your driving privileges. To reinstate your driving privileges, you may be required to provide proof of financial responsibility, provide proof of enrollment in a DUI program, and pay reinstatement fees. If you are charged with a DUI in New Orleans, you should talk to a New Orleans DUI attorney as soon as possible. A New Orleans DUI attorney may be able to help you get your charges reduced or dismissed, avoid jail time, and get your driver’s license back sooner.

EXPERIENCED NEW ORLEANS DUI LAWYER

The Law Office of Heather C. Ford will give you peace of mind in your DUI case. She will professionally and effectively represent you on your behalf in front of any prosecutors or judges. Trust that your case will be handled with your best interests in mind.

Serving New Orleans and the surrounding area:

• Get Expert Advice
• Save Time
• Reduce Costs
• Fast & Free Consultation

We are committed to making the legal process as quick and efficient as possible for every client. If you are facing DUI charges in New Orleans, Contact our office immediately to schedule a consultation.