Skip to Content
Call for a Free Consultation 888-879-7087
Top

The Difference Between a Misdemeanor DUI and a Felony DUI

blog
|

Whenever an individual gets behind the wheel of a motor vehicle after they have been drinking, they are putting themselves and others at risk. That is why law enforcement officials in Olathe, Johnson County and throughout the entire state of Kansas have been taking calculated measures to crack down on DUI offenders. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor DUI or a felony DUI, if you are convicted of a DUI you can expect to receive the maximum penalties allowed by the law.

DUI laws vary from state to state, however, the state of Kansas classifies 1st and 2nd offense DUIs as misdemeanors. All other DUI charges, following a 2nd offense DUI, are considered to be felony DUIs. The penalties connected with a first time misdemeanor DUI can include a 48-hour imprisonment or 100 hours of community service, a $500-$1000 fine, limited suspension of all driving privileges, and possible vehicle impoundment. A second time misdemeanor DUI conviction can lead to a 90-day to a 1-year imprisonment, a $1000-$1500 fine, the suspension of your driver's license, the possible impoundment of your vehicle and the mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle. A felony DUI charge, however, is tried at the state level and the penalties are considerably more severe. For example, anyone convicted of a felony DUI can expect to face penalties including a $1500-$2500 fine, up to a year in prison, the permanent revocation of your driving privileges, and more. A felony DUI conviction not only will impact your personal life, but your professional one as well. Thankfully I may be able to help.

Johnson County DUI Charges

If you or a loved one is facing DUI charges in Johnson County, I urge you to contact a criminal defense lawyer at The Law Office of John Harvell immediately. As a former judge and prosecuting attorney I understand how much a DUI conviction will negatively impact your life, that is why I am devoted to providing each of my clients with the personalized attention and aggressive representation they deserve.

Contact an Olathe criminal defense attorney today to schedule your confidential consultation and review of the charges against you.

Categories: