DUI Defense in Alabama
Author
JB Brown
Date Published
A DUI charge in Alabama carries serious legal and personal consequences, including potential jail time, fines, and driver’s license suspension. Our firm provides aggressive defense strategies to fight DUI charges and protect our clients’ rights.
Understanding Alabama’s DUI Laws (§ 32-5A-191)
In Alabama, it is illegal to operate a vehicle with:
• A Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher (0.02% for drivers under 21, 0.04% for commercial drivers)
• Any amount of a controlled substance that impairs driving ability
• Signs of impairment, even if the BAC is below the legal limit
A DUI charge can be based on breathalyzer tests, field sobriety tests, and officer observations.
Penalties for DUI in Alabama
First-Time DUI (Misdemeanor)
• Fines: $600 – $2,100
• Jail Time: Up to 1 year (though first-time offenders often get probation)
• License Suspension: 90 days (possible eligibility for an ignition interlock device)
• Mandatory DUI Education Program
Second DUI (Misdemeanor, if within 10 years)
• Fines: $1,100 – $5,100
• Jail Time: 5 days to 1 year (or 30 days of community service)
• License Suspension: 1-year revocation
• Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device
Third DUI (Misdemeanor, if within 10 years)
• Fines: $2,100 – $10,100
• Jail Time: 60 days to 1 year
• License Suspension: 3-year revocation
• Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device
Fourth or Subsequent DUI (Class C Felony)
• Fines: $4,100 – $10,100
• Jail Time: 1 year and 1 day to 10 years
• License Suspension: 5-year revocation
• Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device
Driver’s License Consequences
A DUI conviction results in a license suspension or revocation, but there are options to minimize the impact:
• Hard Suspension Period: After an arrest, a driver may have their license automatically suspended unless they request an administrative hearing within 10 days.
• Ignition Interlock Devices (IID): Some offenders may be eligible for early reinstatementby installing an IID in their vehicle.
• License Reinstatement: After serving the suspension, drivers must complete DUI education courses and pay reinstatement fees.
Our DUI Defense Strategy
We aggressively defend DUI cases by:
• Challenging the accuracy of breathalyzer and field sobriety tests
• Investigating police misconduct or improper traffic stops
• Reviewing dashcam and bodycam footage
• Identifying medical conditions or other factors that could cause inaccurate test results
• Exploring plea negotiations or alternative sentencing options
Why Clients Choose Us
• 24/7 Availability
• Proven Track Record
• Deep Understanding of Local Courts
• Aggressive Advocacy
• Personal Attention to Every Case
A DUI charge does not have to ruin your future. Contact our firm today to discuss your defense options with an experienced DUI attorney who understands Alabama’s laws and the best strategies to protect your rights.
