An important rule while out drinking with your friends is to always have a DD (Designated Driver). This is the person who stays sober to safely drive everyone home. If you don’t have a plan and you or a friend end up driving drunk, do you know what the consequences are? Let’s look at the five levels of sentencing for Driving While Impaired (DWI) in North Carolina.
Level 5 – This is the least serious level. This level of sentencing includes a maximum fine of $200 and a jail sentence at a minimum of 24 hours or a maximum of two months. The sentence could be excused by the judge if 24 hours total of community service is performed, if driving is avoided for 30 days, or if 24 hours of jail time is completed.
Level 4 – This level includes a maximum $500 fine and a jail sentence between 48 hours and four months maximum. This sentence can be suspended if 48 hours total of community service is performed, if driving is avoided for 60 days, or if 48 hours of jail time is completed.
Level 3 – Level 3 includes a maximum fine of $1,000 and between 72 hours and six months of jail time. The sentence could be excused if 72 hours total of community service is performed, if driving is avoided for 90 days, or if 72 hours of jail time is completed.
Level 2 – This level includes a fine of $2,000 maximum and a jail sentence for a minimum of seven days or up to one year. This sentence cannot be excused by a judge.
Level 1 – This is the most severe level. This level includes a maximum $4,000 fine and a jail sentence for a minimum of 30 days or up to two years. This sentence cannot be suspended.
We hope you don’t find yourself facing a DWI, but now you know what to expect. If you do find yourself in trouble and need a bail bond, give us a call. Big Mike is here to help!
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