So you were arrested for drunk driving in the District of Columbia last night. First and foremost, relax - this is not the end of the world. You need to come up with a plan so you have a successful outcome.   We kow you did not expect this but Let us help you with that plan.

(1) You should have received notice of proposed suspension of your drivers license. You need to request a hearing at DMV. You cant do it online, you have to to go to 955 L'Enflant Plaza, NW. Washington, DC to request a hearing.

(2) Now you need to research attorneys. Take your time. Do not rush or be bullied by an attorney scaring you.

(3) Set a budget. Read our blog on cost of DUI lawyers in this area.

DUI 1st Offense

180 days in jail $1,000 fine If no score, no mandatory jail time. Could be as little as probation. if BAC is between 0.20 and 0.25, mandatory 10 days if BAC is above 0.25 , mandatory 15 days if BAC is above 0.30, mandatory 20 days If Schedule 1 controlled substance is found in system, mandatory 15 days 6 months license suspension up to 1 year at DMV

Second DUI (within 15 years):

1 year in jail, mandatory minimum 10 days $2,500 – $5,000 fine; If no score, 10 days mandatory jail time. if BAC is between 0.20 and 0.25, mandatory 15 days if BAC is above 0.25 , mandatory 20 days if BAC is above 0.30, mandatory 25 days; If Schedule 1 controlled substance is found in system, mandatory 20 days license suspension up to 1 year at DMV.

Third DUI in DC (within 15 years):

Driver’s license suspension for up to 3 years, 1 year in jail, mandatory minimum 15 days; $2,500 – $10,000 fine, If no score, 15 days mandatory jail time.  if BAC is between 0.20 and 0.25, mandatory 20 days; if BAC is above 0.25 , mandatory 25 days ;if BAC is above 0.30, mandatory 30 days; If Schedule 1 controlled substance is found in system, mandatory 25 days