How to Find Information on the DUI Penalty in Washington, DC

Driving under the influence (DUI) laws forbid anyone from operating a motor vehicle while affected by alcohol or drugs. To find out how Washington, DC, treats DUI offenders, read the information below.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Seek out voluntary assessment and training programs through the Web site of the Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP) (see Resources below), which lists numerous private clinics and centers. The District's motor vehicle laws do not proscribe mandatory assessments on DUI offenders.

2. Public defenders are assigned during the arraignment process and can help litigants decrease penalties through appeals. If possible, work with an attorney who is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (see Resources below).

3. Learn about the various levels of blood alcohol content (BAC) that determine a DUI penalty. Drivers under age 21 must not register a BAC of 0.15 or higher; an enhanced penalty and prison time can result. Learn more about penalties at DUI.com (see Resources below).

4. DMV administrators and district judges are required to add 12 points to a license for a DUI in the District of Columbia. That large a point total is grounds for administrative revocation, with reinstatement measures determined by the DMV. Read more about the points system at the Web site for the District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles (see Resources below).

5. Judges, based on information from the arresting police officers, can use Ignition Interlock Devices as an additional penalty for DUI. These devices test the blood alcohol content of drivers to determine if they can safely drive.

Tips & Warnings

• Take advantage of the right to counsel guaranteed in the United States Constitution. Litigants in DUI cases can ask the judge for a court-appointed public defender for their arraignment and trial.
• District of Columbia DUI laws allow judges to impound vehicles from multiple offenders.