Mississippi, just as the rest of the United States, does not take kindly to people getting behind the wheel of their car when they have been drinking or taking drugs. If you are exhibiting signs of intoxication of either drugs or alcohol, you can be pulled over and be subjected to testing. If you have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or above, you will be arrested and charged with a DUI. Drivers who are driving commercially or who are under the age of 21 face even lower BAC levels. Punishments and penalties for DUI severely restrict your life and cause you financial loss, so be sure that you keep that in mind if you make that choice.
First DUI Offense
The first DUI conviction in the state of Mississippi will result in you losing your license for a period of 90 days, although you can apply for a restricted license after 30 days. The reinstatement of your license may require drug/alcohol abuse assessment. As far as jail time, there is no minimum period of incarceration and you can spend up to two days in jail. Fines can range from $250 to $1000, and this cost will not include drug/alcohol assessment, court fees, and other costs that are associated with carrying out your sentence.
Second DUI Offense
A second conviction within a period of five years will result in two years of license suspension, although you can apply for a restricted license using an ignition interlock device after six months of suspension. In addition, your car will be impounded, while your license is suspended as well to be sure that you will not find it as easy to drive. Jail time for a second DUI can range from 5 days to one year and this time may not include a period of community service of 10 days to one year that can be added to that jail time. Fines that you will be responsible for can range from $600 to $1500 and this will not include other costs that are associated with your court case and sentencing, including the ignition interlock device, alcohol counseling, and other court and lawyer fees.
Third DUI Offense
The third and future DUI convictions within 5 years will result in felony charge(s) and this means that you will have a criminal record that can affect you getting a job and more. License suspension for a period of five years after your jail sentence will be mandated. Your jail sentence will be for at last 1 year, but you can be facing up to 5 years in jail, depending upon the factors of your arrest. Fines will range from $2000 to $5000 and this will not include court costs and other costs associated with you carrying out the terms of your sentence. Your vehicle may be seized and sold by the state and you will most likely have to have an ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle for at least 6 months after the period of your suspension has ended. As you can see, driving under the influence will severely inhibit your freedoms for a long time.
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol in the state of Mississippi will result in some fines, penalties, and punishments that will severely restrict your freedom and cause financial hardship. By getting proper legal representation, via a lawyer, you will be able to ensure that you get the advice and help you need for minimum sentencing and penalties. The best answer for you is to refrain from driving while under the influence of drugs and alcohol.