The social stigma alone of getting arrested for a drunk driving offense can be difficult for people in Nebraska to suffer. The legal ramifications of such an offense if eventually convicted can follow a person for even longer. When a person experiences multiple DUI charges, the penalties generally increase in severity.
One man in Nebraska who last year was arrested for drunk driving for the third time has learned this. However, the man has also found his efforts to rehabilitate himself get rewarded by a judge. For his most recent DUI charge, the driver could have been sentenced to prison as the offense was a felony. Instead he will serve 180 days of jail time but still be allowed to leave in order to complete his college classes at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln.
The decision to allow the student to go to jail and finish school was made because of the steps he has taken since his arrest in the spring of 2015. Reports indicate he has undergone extensive alcohol treatment and even lived in a special facility to help him get back on track. In addition to the jail time instead of prison time, the driver will lose his license for 22 years and does have to pay a fine.
Criminal charges for drinking and driving can impact a person forever potentially. Learning the options for how to proceed when a defense is needed is important. People who have been arrested for drunk driving may wish to contact a lawyer promptly.
Source: Lincoln Journal Star, “Judge gives 24-year-old man 6 months in jail for felony DUI,” May 18, 2016