Receiving an out-of-state DUI charge can be as confusing to deal with. If a person is not a resident of the state they received charges in, they may not know what they need to do to avoid making their situation even worse. The least confusing aspect of a DUI is whether someone was legally intoxicated while driving. States use the federal BAC of 0.08% to determine if someone is driving drunk. This means that every driver should be aware of what is considered drunk driving across all states.

Hire a Local Attorney

In some states, the punishments are higher for drivers depending on how high their BAC is or how old they are. According to the DMV, hiring a local attorney should always be your first act after being arrested for a DUI in any state. When arrested for a DUI, an individual will likely be placed in a local jail and will need to post bail to be released. Having a local attorney will help an individual decide if it is a wise decision to leave the state.

Court Dates & Probation

When a person is arrested in a state where they do not live, they will still need to attend the court hearing in the jurisdiction in which their arrest occurred. Many DUI convictions end in a probation sentence, so convicted individuals will remain on probation in the county or city their charges are in. Sometimes, a person’s punishment will be transferred to their home state through an interstate compact. This agreement between states allows them to work together to enforce a criminal sentence. Those looking to have their probation located in the area they live will likely need to pay a fine for the transfer to take place.

Getting Home with a Suspended License

If a person’s license is suspended because of their out-of-state DUI, they can only return home if they do not drive themselves home. If a family or friend is not able to drive someone, they must take an alternative form of transportation back home.

The best way a person accused of a DUI can ensure they will be able to drive back home is through the hiring of an experienced DUI attorney. Many states give a person 10 days to schedule a DMV hearing where their license might be suspended. Having an attorney will help someone take the steps needed to protect their ability to drive home at this hearing.

To find an experienced DUI attorney near you, use our directory today!