What Happens if I Get an Aggravated DUI Charge in Idaho?

Aggravated DUI (driving under the influence) in Idaho is a severe offense that carries steep penalties. According to a report, one person dies in drunk-driving crashes every 52 minutes in the US. That’s because alcohol affects brain function, and driving after drinking invariably means one is putting other road users’ lives at serious risk. Usually, the injuries from a DUI crash are severe and life-altering.

To be guilty of DUI in Idaho, you must have been driving with a BAC (breath alcohol concentration) of at least 0.08%. For drivers under 21 years of age, it’s 0.02%. Also, if you’re a commercial driver, you’re guilty of DUI when you drive with a BAC level of 0.04% or more.

The penalties for an Idaho DUI depend on the case’s specifics and how many times you’ve offended. There are also three types of DUI — standard DUI, excessive DUI, and aggressive DUI. Your Boise DUI lawyer can help you ascertain the differences between them. In this article, however, our attention is focused on what happens after an aggravated DUI charge.

What’s an Aggravated DUI?

An aggravated DUI in Idaho is one of the most serious of all DUI charges. It occurs when you have high alcohol levels and cause an accident that injures someone. In other words, aggravated DUI happens when your DUI causes bodily harm or death to someone else.

What Are the Penalties for Aggravated DUI in Idaho?

As mentioned earlier, the penalties are steep for aggravated DUI, with accompanying negative socio-economic consequences. If you’ve been convicted for aggravated DUI in Idaho, you should expect the following punishments:

• Incarceration 

If you’re guilty of aggravated DUI, you’re at risk of imprisonment for a mandatory minimum of 30 days. However, depending on the case’s severity, you could be looking at a jail term of up to 15 years.

• Restitution

In Idaho, aggravated DUI offenders must pay restitution to their injured victims. That means you’d have to pay for the losses they incurred due to your DUI. The reimbursement will usually cover economic damages like property damage, medical expenses, lost wages, etc.

• Fines

One of the most common penalties for DUI offenses is a fine. As an aggravated DUI offender in Idaho, you will pay $5,000 in fines for the offense.

• Probation 

Usually, an aggravated DUI conviction leads to a mandatory prison term of at least 30 days. However, under very extraordinary circumstances, you may get probation.

• Suspension of License 

As a DUI offender, the authorities may suspend your license for some time. Usually, the license suspension spans from one to five years after incarceration. That means you wouldn’t be able to drive for the stipulated period.

• A Felony Record 

Having a felony record has many adverse consequences. It may affect your relationship and status in society. Many employers don’t like to employ ex-offenders, and it may limit your educational opportunities too.

• Ignition Interlock Device

An Ignition Interlock Device is a breathalyzer device. It measures the alcoholic content in a user’s breath. When you get back your license, you may be required to install one in your vehicle.

How Can I Fight My Idaho Aggravated DUI Case?

Having an aggravated DUI charge in Idaho is a frightening situation. However, it’s not the end of the world. The best way to overcome such a  challenge is by hiring experienced Boise DUI lawyers. First, your attorneys will ensure that you don’t complicate your case by making unnecessary mistakes.

Next, they’d evaluate your matter and look for loopholes to exploit in your favor. There are many options they could explore. For example, your attorneys can claim the arresting officers didn’t read the Miranda warning, the DUI stop was illegal, or the breath test was unreliable. The most important thing is getting an experienced lawyer who has your best interests at heart.

Hire an Experienced Boise DUI Attorney Now!

Are you facing an Aggravated DUI charge in Idaho? Then, our Boise DUI lawyers can help you navigate these difficult times. No matter how complicated it seems, no case is too hopeless for us to handle at the Trilogy Law Group. We’d painstakingly evaluate your case and ensure that you get the best legal representation possible.

You need the best lawyers by your side to help you fight your criminal case. We are best suited for your case because we guarantee that your best interests are our priority at every point. To this end, we offer free consultation services and no upfront fees. So contact us for top-notch legal representation now; we are always ready to help.