Boise First-Offense DUI Attorney

DUI Penalties After a First-Offense Conviction

Under Idaho law, a first-offense DUI conviction is a misdemeanor.

If convicted, penalties may include:

• Jail time of up to six months
• A fine of up to $1,000
• A criminal court license suspension of 90 to 180 days, with no restricted license for the first 30 days
• An alcohol evaluation and completion of treatment or other conditions ordered by the court
• A court-ordered ignition interlock device
• Increased insurance rates and potential employment consequences

These penalties may vary depending on specific factors, such as whether BAC was significantly above the legal limit, a minor was in the vehicle, or the case involved an accident or injury. A conviction can also affect professional driving and the consequences of any future DUI allegation.

Idaho Transportation Department License Suspension

The criminal case is separate from an administrative license suspension handled by the Idaho Transportation Department. Following a failed evidentiary chemical test, a driver generally has seven days from service of the suspension notice to request an administrative hearing.

For a first administrative suspension, the suspension is generally 90 days. There are no driving privileges during the first 30 days, and restricted driving privileges may be available during the remaining period. This administrative process can continue independently of the criminal case, so it requires attention even when the criminal charge is disputed.

Boise DUI cases proceed within Idaho’s Fourth Judicial District, with Ada County criminal court proceedings held at the Ada County Courthouse. A first offense DUI lawyer in Boise can review both the court case and the administrative deadline before the driver decides how to respond.

How a DUI Attorney Reviews a First-Offense Case

An unlawful traffic stop, unreliable test results, errors in field sobriety testing, or violations of constitutional rights can affect the prosecution’s case.

Trilogy Law Group focuses its criminal defense practice on DUI matters in Idaho. The firm reviews the arrest circumstances, BAC testing evidence, and law-enforcement procedures to identify issues that may affect the case. The appropriate response can depend on the charge, available evidence, driving history, administrative suspension status, and any aggravating facts.

A first offense DUI attorney in Boise can assess whether disputed evidence should be litigated, whether negotiation is appropriate, and what preparation may be needed if the case proceeds toward trial or sentencing.

Reach us online or call (208) 842-3892 for a free consultation with a Boise first offense DUI attorney about the criminal case and driving-privilege concerns.