Boise Aggravated DUI Defense Attorney

DUI Defense in Meridian, Garden City & Throughout Idaho

An aggravated DUI charge in Idaho is far more serious than a standard DUI. It’s a felony from the outset, regardless of prior record, and the consequences extend well beyond what a misdemeanor DUI carries. Who you hire matters from the first day.

At Trilogy Law Group, DUI defense is all the firm does. Trilogy Law Group represents clients in Boise, throughout Ada County, and across Idaho. If you’ve been charged with aggravated DUI, contact the firm immediately for a free initial consultation.

Book a free initial consultation with a Boise aggravated DUI defense lawyer at Trilogy Law Group by calling (208) 842-3892 or completing the online contact form.

What Is an Aggravated DUI in Idaho?

Under Idaho Code §18-8006, a DUI becomes “aggravated” when the alleged offense results in great bodily harm, permanent disability, or permanent disfigurement to any person other than the defendant. That includes other drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists.

It’s important to understand what the aggravated DUI statute covers and what it doesn’t. A high blood alcohol concentration, a minor in the vehicle, or a prior DUI conviction doesn’t trigger the aggravated DUI statute under §18-8006. Those factors may affect other charge types and sentencing under separate provisions, but the aggravated DUI charge is defined solely by the nature of the injury caused to another person.

Unlike a standard DUI, which is typically a misdemeanor for first and second offenses, an aggravated DUI is charged as a felony DUI even on a first offense. That distinction significantly affects how the case is prosecuted and the penalties that may apply.

Penalties for an Aggravated DUI Conviction

A conviction under Idaho Code §18-8006 can result in the following consequences.

• Incarceration: A prison sentence of up to 15 years. If the court imposes probation instead of incarceration, a mandatory minimum of 30 days in jail applies, with the first 48 hours served consecutively.
• Fines: Up to $5,000.
• Driver’s license suspension: Mandatory for a minimum of one year after release from incarceration, with the possibility of suspension for up to five years. No restricted driving privileges are permitted during this period.
• Restitution: Mandatory payment to the victim for qualifying losses, including medical bills, lost wages, and related damages.
• Ignition interlock device: Required on any vehicle driven after license reinstatement.
• Alcohol evaluation and treatment: Includes mandatory counseling, education, and participation in a victim impact panel.
• Felony record: A conviction can affect future employment, housing, educational opportunities, and professional licensing.
• Civil liability: Under Idaho Code §18-8006(2), a criminal conviction is admissible as evidence in any civil lawsuit the victim files, which can expose the defendant to substantial financial judgments beyond the restitution ordered in the criminal case.