Though technically a misdemeanor, a first time DWI conviction does have serious consequences, such as:
- A fine with a minimum of $300 and a maximum of $1,000 or 6 months of jail time.
- A prison sentence lasting at least 48 hours.
- A probationary period, determined by the court, lasting up to 2 years.
- A minimum of 32 hours of a driver’s education program.
- Completion of 3 courses on alcohol and drug abuse and a MADD Victim Impact Panel.
- And, community service for 32 hours minimum with 16 hours devoted to garbage pick-up.
Some other things to think about with a first time DWI conviction include: an additional 48 hours of jail time that cannot be suspended if your BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) was greater than .15. If your BAC was higher than .20, it results in another 48 hours of jail time, a fine of $750 to $1,000 and the installation of an interlock device in your vehicle for 1 year.