A DUI occurs when a driver operates a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. For commercial drivers, the legal limit is lower at 0.04%, and for drivers under the misdemeanor attorney Mississippi age of 21, any detectable alcohol may lead to DUI charges under Mississippi’s zero-tolerance laws. Drug-impaired driving, including prescription medication or illegal substances, can also result in DUI charges if it affects the driver’s ability to operate the vehicle safely.
Mississippi law classifies DUI offenses based on the number of previous offenses and the level of impairment. A first-time DUI is typically considered a misdemeanor, while repeated offenses or extreme BAC levels can result in felony charges. Aggravating factors, such as causing an accident, driving with a minor in the vehicle, or refusing a breathalyzer test, can also increase the severity of penalties.
The consequences of a DUI in Mississippi can be substantial. For a first offense, penalties may include fines, license suspension, mandatory attendance at alcohol education programs, probation, and in some cases, jail time. Subsequent offenses carry harsher penalties, including longer license suspensions, higher fines, extended jail sentences, and the potential for felony convictions. Additionally, DUI convictions remain on a person’s driving and criminal record,