No doubt you have set some goals for yourself: a college degree, a particular job, various career objectives. Perhaps you are engaged to be married, or maybe you already have a family.
Before you get behind the wheel of your car after enjoying a few drinks with friends, give some thought to the risks. If you are arrested on suspicion of DWI, your plans for the future might turn to dust.
License problems
If you are pulled over for driving while intoxicated, you will have to take a breath test to determine your blood alcohol concentration level. If you refuse to take the test, or if the reading shows that your BAC is .08 percent or higher, your driver’s license will be suspended immediately, and to get it back, you will have to meet certain conditions.
The mandatory program
If you are convicted of DWI, the state of New Hampshire will require you to attend an alcohol and drug information program. You must complete the program before your driving privileges will be reinstated. Here is what you can expect:
- Complete 20 hours of the impaired driver education program for a fee of $300
- Attend an alternative weekend program for a fee of $485
- Have two evaluation sessions with an alcohol and drug counselor, to include urine or blood tests
- Pay an introductory program fee of at least $70
Looking forward
While your criminal defense attorney works on developing a strong case for your DWI, you can think about the effect of this kind of mark on your record. Even if this is your first offense, you may be surprised at the consequences. For example, if you apply for admission to college, or if you interview for a new job, there will likely be a background check. Once that DWI mark on your record is discovered, you may be turned down by the college or company to which you applied. Even worse, your friends and family may lose trust in your ability to make good decisions with your life. So, considering how a single DWI conviction could disrupt your plans for the future, perhaps you will think carefully about the risks of drinking and driving.
