As a DWI attorney in New Orleans, I meet with clients each day that, if convicted, face severe penalties.
Often, I find that drivers are unaware of the possible penalties of a DWI conviction, initially believing such a charge doesn’t carry heavy consequences. It is actually the contrary. I try to quickly educate drivers on the possible penalties of a DWI conviction in Louisiana.
To clear up any confusion on DWI penalties, below shows each DWI conviction and its maximum penalty:
What Are the Penalties for a DWI Conviction in Louisiana?
First Offense DWI in Louisiana
- Driving privileges suspended for up to 90 days
- Up to six months in jail
- Up to a $1,000 fine, in addition to court costs
Second Offense DWI in Louisiana
- Driving privileges suspended for up to one year
- Mandatory 48 hours in jail
- Up to six months of additional jail time
- Up to a $1,000 fine, in addition to court costs
Third Offense DWI in Louisiana
- Driving privileges suspended for up to two years
- Mandatory 30 days in jail
- Up to five years in prison
- Possible home confinement
- Up to a $2,000 fine, in addition to court costs
- Possible loss of vehicle
- Six weeks in an inpatient substance abuse program, plus 12 months in an outpatient substance abuse program
Fourth Offense DWI in Louisiana
- Driving privileges suspended for up to two years
- Mandatory 30 days in jail
- Possible home confinement for five years
- Up to a $5,000 fine, in addition to court costs
- Possible loss of vehicle
- Six weeks in an inpatient substance abuse program, plus 12 months in an outpatient substance abuse program
Please be aware that first and second DWI convictions earn you a criminal record, while third and fourth DWI convictions will give you a felony criminal record.
Are there any other penalties for DWI convictions in Louisiana?
In addition to these penalties, the judge may require you to enroll in a driver improvement program or work on community service projects, possibly paying for all this from your own pocket.
If there was a fatality as a result of your accident, remember that any drunk driver in Louisiana who causes an accident that kills another person will face up to 20 years in prison.
Contact a New Orleans DWI attorney
As you can see, the penalties for a DWI conviction in Louisiana are not to be taken lightly. If you have been charged with a DWI in or near New Orleans, you need an experienced DWI attorney to defend your rights and fight to secure the best possible outcome. Contact us today!
