Every year, around 1.5 million people in the U.S. are arrested for a DUI charge.

A DUI charge can have a devastating impact on your personal and professional life. Often, this charge carries the threat of jail time, steep penalties, and a felony charge that could stay with you for the rest of your life. An aggravated DUI charge ramps up these consequences.

But what is an aggravated DUI charge? Keep reading to learn more about what this charge means, and what happens if you are arrested for an aggravated DUI in Boise.

What is an Aggravated DUI?

You likely already know that a DUI is a charge for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. But as far as legal terms go, aggravated DUI is a little less common.

An aggravated DUI charge means that you were found to be driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, while also committing another offense. Some examples of common other offenses that a person could be charged with include driving with a license that is suspended or revoked or transporting a minor while under the influence.

Additionally, if a person has previously been charged with multiple DUI or DWI charges within a certain period, their next DUI charge could be elevated to an aggravated DUI charge.

In Idaho, aggravated DUI can also refer to a charge for causing “great bodily harm, permanent disability or permanent disfigurement to any person other than himself” while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

What Happens If I'm Arrested for An Aggravated DUI In Boise?

The legal consequences of an aggravated DUI are even more severe than those for a regular DUI charge.

Individuals who are convicted of a felony aggravated DUI in Idaho may be subject to:

• Probation, including a mandatory 30 dail jail sentence
• Monetary fines of up to $5,000
• A prison sentence of up to 15 years
• The requirement to pay restitution for any property damage or injuries that occurred as a result of your crime
• Loss of your license for at least one year from the date of release from jail, up to five years
• The installation of an interlock device on your vehicle
• An alcohol evaluation, such as court-ordered alcohol treatment, counseling, or other education
• A felony record

Of these charges, the felony record often has the longest impact. This can make it difficult to get a job in the future, pursue education, or even seek housing.

Choosing the Best DUI Attorneys in Boise

If you've been charged with an aggravated DUI in Boise, the most important thing you can do is seek help from DUI lawyers right away.

When you hire an attorney as soon as possible after your arrest, you'll have help and guidance as you navigate the complicated process of fighting a DUI charge or minimizing the impact on your life.

If you've been charged with a DUI, it's time to hire a lawyer. Schedule your free consultation today to learn how the experts at Attorneys of Idaho can help.