What You Need To Know About Court-Ordered DUI Classes
Posted on: 30 December 2017
Drinking and driving convictions can come with a range of sentencing options. Some judges may determine that a driver might benefit more from attending court-mandated DUI classes instead of serving time in jail. Others may order the classes in addition to alcohol treatment programs or community service. If you are charged with a DUI, you may want to work with your defense lawyer to make a plea deal that includes DUI school as an alternative to incarceration. If you do not have a lawyer already, contact a firm like Steven T. Fox Law Firm for more information. Here are some things you should know about court-ordered DUI classes before you enter into a plea agreement.
Different Types Of Classes
There are different types of DUI classes the court can order you to attend. Some focus on understanding the possible impact that drinking and driving can have, while others combine alcohol education with treatment and therapy. Each state has different rules regarding what is covered in each type of class, and some courses may be determined by the number of times a person has been convicted of drunk driving. For example, in California, there are separate programs for first-time offenders, second-time offenders, and those who have three or more DUI convictions. When taking a look at the different types of programs, talk with your lawyer about your individual needs. In some cases, you may want to acknowledge that you need treatment for alcohol addiction when negotiating a plea deal. Not only can this show you taking responsibility for your actions, but it can also have a positive effect on your future and sobriety.
Transportation To Classes
If your driver's license has been suspended due to DUI charges, you may need to work out a method of transportation to ensure you are able to attend classes. You may be able to get a restricted license, which will allow you to drive to and from DUI school or work. If this is not an option for you, work with your attorney and family members to show proof that you will have a safe and reliable mode of transportation to get to and from DUI school classes.
Combined Plea Agreements
You may be able to work with the judge or prosecutor by volunteering to attend DUI school as well as an outpatient alcohol treatment program. Showing your sincere wish to rehabilitate after an arrest is one way to demonstrate that you don't want to offend again. You'll want to make sure that you are able to create a schedule that allows you to attend both the classes and therapy sessions, so look into local DUI school course schedules to ensure you are able to do both. Talk to your lawyer about what you can offer to a prosecutor or judge, and remember that you will have to comply with any terms set in the plea agreement.
Once you have reached a plea agreement or you have been sentenced to court-ordered DUI school, you'll need to make sure you complete the course and fulfill any other obligations the court has placed upon you. Failure to do so may result in further punishments. Your DUI defense lawyer can help you to understand what you need to do to remain in compliance with your plea agreement or sentence.
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