If you are facing driving under the influence (DUI) charges, it's not over yet. What you must work to avoid is being convicted of DUI. That means you should speak to a criminal defense attorney about your case without delay. Your lawyer will begin working on your case by examining the evidence the state has against you. To understand what might happen because of the arrest and if you are convicted, read below.

Suspension of Driving Privileges

You may automatically lose your driving privileges upon a DUI arrest, or you may get a grace period before that happens. Until your case is resolved, however, most defendants are unable to drive without obtaining a special driver's license known as a hardship license. You can only drive to work and a few other places, however, with this sort of license. If you are convicted, you could lose your driving privileges for several months.

Jail Time

An arrest will mean some time in jail. How long you remain in jail depends on your ability to obtain bail. If you are bailed out, you are probably free until your case comes up on the court calendar. If you get convicted, jail is a possibility, even if you are charged with a misdemeanor. Depending on the circumstances of the case, you could be sentenced to jail. Conditions that could call for jail time include having an extra high blood alcohol concentration level, fleeing from law enforcement, having minors in the vehicle at the time of the arrest, and other escalations.

Fines and Fees

Most defendants will end up shelling out a lot of money if they are convicted of DUI. The amount you pay varies from several hundred dollars to several thousand in court costs, probation fees, fees for ignition interlock devices, classes, counseling, and more.

Financially, a DUI could have devastating effects on your employment, too. You could lose your job if you drive for a living or as part of your job. You may also lose your security clearance if you are convicted of any crime. Finally, your vehicle insurance will likely cost more in premiums, and you could even find your policy canceled.

Other Miscellaneous Forms of DUI Punishment

• Being ordered to attend alcohol counseling.
• Having your vehicle seized by the state.
• Being ordered to do community service.

And more.

To find out what can be done to avoid the above punishments, speak to a DUI attorney as soon as possible.