Nampa DUI Lawyer
DUI Charges in Idaho
Driving under the influence, or DUI, is one of the most commonly charged crimes across the United States. It may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony offense in Idaho, depending on the circumstances. Multiple offenders and those who are accused of causing serious or fatal auto accidents may face felony DUI charges and extremely harsh penalties.
Gulstrom & Govia PC represents drivers across Southwest Idaho who have been arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other intoxicating substances. As Nampa DUI attorneys, we offer skilled representation in criminal court proceedings and at administrative license suspension (ALS) hearings related to drunk driving and driving under the influence of drugs. We are here to protect your freedom and your driving privileges.
For a free DUI case evaluation, call our Nampa DUI defense lawyers at (208) 502-5006.
What are the Penalties for DUI in ID?
Although the penalties will vary based on your BAC (blood alcohol concentration), the number of offense, your age, etc. The following are possible offenses for drunk driving charges:
- Heavy fines
- Jail time
-
License suspension or revocation
- First offense - 3 months with the possibility of a conditional license after 20 days
- Second and third offenses - 1 year
- Required alcohol education, assessment and treatment
- Confiscation of your vehicle
-
Installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle
- Circumstantial for first offenses
- Required for second and third offenses
DUI Defense Strategies
It is easy to feel helpless after a DUI arrest if you have “failed” field sobriety tests or took a breath or blood test that showed a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) result of .08% or higher. You may think there is no way to challenge such results, but this could not be further from the truth. In defending clients against DUI charges, we aggressively counter:
- Field sobriety test results
- Breathalyzer test results
- Blood and urine test results
- Law enforcement testimony
- Police reports
- Evidence of probable cause for the initial police stop
Is a DUI a Felony in Idaho?
A DUI is a felony in Idaho if it is the 3rd DUI offense. The prison time for a 3rd DUI offense can range from 30 days - 10 years. You can also face fines of up to $5,000 and having your license suspended from 1 - 5 years.
What Happens if you Refuse a Breathalyzer in Idaho?
If you refuse a breathalyzer in Idaho, it can make it easier for the state to convict you of a DUI. The biggest problem that you will face for refusing to take a breathalyzer test in Idaho is that you will automatically have your license suspended for 1 year. During the 1 year suspension, you can not drive any car to work, school, or even medical appointments. Another problem with refusing the breathalyzer test is that Idaho’s “implied consent law” will make it easier for the state to convict you of a DUI.
Aggressive DUI Defense Counsel Tailored to Your Needs
What you may not know is that DUI cases involve a number of elements that must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt for the prosecution to secure a conviction in criminal court. Finding a single error or violation of your rights may provide sufficient grounds for an acquittal or dismissal.
Our Nampa DUI lawyers are experienced in handling these cases and know what to look for in exposing faults in testing and other violations that could render your charges unfounded and the prosecuting attorney’s case ineffective.
Find out more about your DUI charges and your rights by contacting a Nampa DUI attorney at (208) 502-5006.
