If you are currently facing charges for a DUI for either alcohol or drugs, it is likely in your best interest to schedule a consultation with a criminal defense attorney. You may not realize it, but there is a lot at stake with a DUI conviction. Aside from the immediate penalties that you can face, including jail time and fines, a DUI conviction can have long-standing consequences. Keep reading to learn some of the possible outcomes of a formal DUI sentencing.

1. Suspension of Your Driver's License

Depending on the state in which you live and were charged with the DUI, you are likely to face a suspension of your driver's license in addition to the criminal penalties that you will face. For instance, if you live in Connecticut, you can expect to have your license suspended for 45 days if you are a first or second offender. However, if you are facing your third conviction, there is a good chance to have your driver's license to be permanently revoked. These penalties can vary from one state to the next, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the penalties in your state. A DUI attorney can explain your state's consequences of a DUI conviction so you know what you are up against in this regard.

2. Increase in Your Auto Insurance Premiums

Insurance companies look at individuals with a DUI conviction and consider them to be a high-risk driver. Because of this, it is highly likely that you will be charged a much higher rate for your auto insurance than if you did not have a DUI conviction on your record. Although there are many factors that play into how much your auto insurance premium is, having a DUI conviction on your driving record could potentially increase your premiums by hundreds, or possibly even thousands, of dollars annually.

3. Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device

Prior to being able to have your driver's license reinstated, you will have to agree to have an ignition interlock device (IID) installed in your automobile. This device will require that you pass a breath test before you are able to operate your vehicle. A DUI attorney will be able to determine how long this device will have to be installed in your vehicle. However, as a general rule, first-time DUI offenders must have this device in their vehicle for six months, while second-time offenders must leave the device in their vehicle for 12 months. Third-time and subsequent offenders must maintain the IID in their vehicles for two years.

If you are facing a DUI conviction, contact a DUI attorney in your area for assistance in defending yourself against the charges.