A DUI/DWI is not going to ruin your life. However, a DWI/DUI conviction may negatively affect you regarding employment, auto insurance rates, and professional relationships. Fight your charges in court by hiring a DWI/DUI lawyer to devise a case strategy while potentially minimizing the impact on your life.
In This Post
You will learn about the ways that a DWI/DUI conviction could impact your life. I will also share my insight on obtaining support and legal help when bravely facing the road ahead.
9 Ways a DWI/DUI Could Ruin Your Life
In my practice I see that DWI/DUI is a crime that effects many different people from many different walks of life. Young and old, rich, and poor, regardless of race it can impact many. One drink too many with your family at dinner or going to give a friend a ride who cannot drive and you think you are “OK” can result in a DWI arrest.
You will face some form of consequence when arrested for drunk driving. Not only are the standardized field sobriety tests (SFSTs) frightening but having your freedom taken and being booked into a city or county jail after having your driver’s license confiscated is not something you will soon forget.
If you are convicted of a felony or misdemeanor DWI/DUI, these are the ways in which it can negatively affect your life:
- Public exposure: Arrest records are public, along with the pleadings filed in court. This fact even applies to cases that do not result in a conviction.
- Conviction penalties: The penalties of a DWI/DUI conviction in New Mexico are steep. Depending upon your case, you could face thousands in fines and several years in jail.
- Ignition interlock device: A DWI/DUI conviction will result in you being required you to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle and being unable to operate ANY vehicle without an ignition interlock device.
- Driver license revocation: You can lose your driver’s license after a DWI/DUI arrest. You MUST demand a separate MVD administrative hearing to fight to keep your driver’s license. Be aware: you only have TEN (10) DAYS after your arrest in New Mexico to Demand the hearing. Failure to demand the hearing within the TEN (10) days will result in an automatic revocation of your driver’s privileges.
- Background checks: A DWI/DUI conviction can also show up on a criminal background check.
- Employment problems: Since convictions show up on a background check, you could experience employment problems later in life. From licensing to securing a job, a DWI/DUI can impede your success.
- Auto insurance rates: Insurance companies view a DWI/DUI conviction negatively. You can be classified as a “high-risk driver,” which can push your insurance rates over the top.
- Professional relationships: The stigma of a DWI/DUI arrest, in and of itself, can tarnish your reputation. You may have to perform strategic damage control to minimize the impact or keep it as discreet as possible.
- Self-esteem issues: Your DWI/DUI may leave you feeling bad about your choices, even several years after the case was closed. It is a burden that you will have to carry for the rest of your life. Fight your charges to help resolve this issue.
As you can see, there are several negative consequences associated with a DWI/DUI conviction. Even the arrest process is harrowing enough to cause concern within your immediate professional and personal circle. However, it is vital to remember that your charges are defensible and that you can bounce back from this setback.
How to Recover from a DWI/DUI Arrest or Conviction
Taking steps forward after a DWI/DUI is challenging. However, it can be reassuring to know that you can recover from this situation. While you may always have this story to tell, you can support yourself in several ways between now and your next hearing.
Lean on Your Family Members
You should not have to go through this experience alone. Do not be afraid to reach out to your loved ones for support. Although they may be disappointed in your decision, people tend to empathize with others in this situation, especially when your charges are still pending.
Your family members can help with getting you to appointments or grocery shopping. Even lending a friendly ear can be tremendously helpful to ease the suffering you are experiencing.
Lean on Your DWI/DUI Attorney
A DWI/DUI attorney will represent you at both your license revocation hearing and the criminal court proceedings. We can provide legal advice and devise a case strategy that works toward getting your charges dropped or reduced. You will not have to face the prosecutors and arresting officer alone when you hire a legal professional to stand by your side and fight for you.
A DUI Doesn’t Have to Ruin Your Life. Call Me to Defend Your New Mexico DWI/DUI Charges
If you want to learn more about a personalized DWI/DUI defense at no cost, contact Grano Law Offices, P.C. Schedule your Free Case Strategy Session by messaging us through the form below or calling (505) 426-8711. We offer video chat, too!
