Consequences of DUI conviction

In Canada, motorists who have been found with Over 80 mg of alcohol in their blood can be charged with impaired driving, according to the Criminal Code.

If convicted, it can mean serious repercussions including fines, jail time, a loss of license and even a criminal record.

Fines, even for first time offenders, can be upwards of $1,000. Reoccurring offences can result in jail time. Second offenders can face up to 30 days while third offenders can be sentenced to 120 days minimum.

Regardless of whether the prosecution pursues the charge as an indictment or a summary conviction, it will mean a criminal record for you.

Having a criminal record means that your name, the crime, fingerprints and other details will be stored in a police database indefinitely.

This can hinder employment opportunities if potential employers do a background check. If they find you have a criminal past, you may not get offered the job.

In addition, it is legal for a landlord to refuse to rent to you if you have a criminal record.

You will likely also face difficulties getting car insurance because you will be seen as a risk. You may be forced to pay higher rates or even denied coverage.

Without a doubt you will lose your driving license for a time. If it is your first conviction you can lose your driving privilege for a year or more. For those who have had a DUI conviction before, depending on where you live, it could be 5-10 years before you are permitted to drive again.

Those who are found driving while under probation can be fined up to $2,000 and face jail time (14 days minimum).

It is important to be aware that even if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is not at .08, you may still be prevented from driving. If you have a BAC of .05 or higher your license will be taken away on the spot for up to 30 days. You may also be fined.

Just because you are charged with a crime does not mean you are guilty until proven innocent, but it does mean you will need to defend yourself. The best way to do that is by hiring a skilled expert to help you navigate the legal waters.

At Donich Law we have successfully represented many clients in DUI cases. Let us do the same for you.