Walk It Through: The First OUI in Court
A first offense, a 150 day suspension, a passenger under 21, and an interlock after 30 days.
A first OUI with no prior offense in 10 years, and no aggravating facts.
Two things a person in this spot might do. Picking one shows what the law says about it.
A first offense without injury. Second and later offenses, a refusal, and the work restricted license after an administrative suspension are on the penalties and work license pages.
A practice walkthrough, not a prediction of how any real one will go. Legal information, not legal advice.
Words this turns on
Terms with a legal meaning that is narrower than the everyday one. Each links to the definition and the authority behind it.
- Bodily injuryPhysical pain, physical illness or any impairment of physical condition.
- OUIOperating a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicants, or with an alcohol level of 0.08 grams or more. A first offense is a Class D crime.
- Serious bodily injuryInjury that creates a substantial risk of death, or causes serious permanent disfigurement, loss or substantial impairment of a bodily member or organ, or extended convalescence.
- Strict liability crimeA crime proved by the act alone, without showing the person meant to or knew. Driving unlicensed and OUI are both strict liability crimes.
- Ignition interlockAn approved device in the vehicle a person drives that lets the Secretary of State reinstate a license before an OUI suspension ends, for the time left on the suspension.