The A-Z of DUI Probation

Why Did I Receive Probation?
Probation is one of the penalties imposed on DUI offenders. First-time offenders who are not involved in any traffic accidents and have not harmed anyone as part of the DUI offense are usually not subject to probation. What does the punishment of DUI probation entail? Firstly, probation is a court-imposed criminal sentence that releases a convicted criminal offender into the community instead of confining him or her to a jail. The probationary period is subject to certain terms and restrictions that the convicted person must abide. Failure to abide by the terms will lead to the revocation of the probation and likely commencement of jail time.

Terms
Probation frequently comes into play where there are aggravating factors to the DUI offense such as injury or a previous conviction. For all intents and purposes, these offenders would usually serve jail time. However, due to certain mitigating circumstances, a judge will impose a sentence of probation instead. During this period, the offender will come under the strict supervision of the court. In Mississippi, DUI probation can accompany a non-adjudication program where the court will withhold a conviction upon the offender's successful completion of the probationary terms. As discussed, the court requires DUI offenders under probation to abide by specific terms. For one, the defendant must pay all court costs and fines associated with the case. The court may also require them to attend the Mississippi Alcohol Safety Education Program, for which the offender must pay. Similarly, the court can require the offender to attend a set hours of community service. In addition, an ignition interlock device can be installed in the offender's car as a means to monitor any future attempts to drink and drive. In some instances, the offender is fitted with an ankle bracelet to monitor his or her compliance with the terms of probation.

Process
The process begins when the court convicts the offender or when both the state and the offender arrive at a plea deal. The court makes the order, which is then formally imposed upon the offender. When the offender receives the court order, he or she must start by paying all court costs and fees. The offender must also pay for any required alcohol education courses and the ignition interlock device. All of these processes occur at the court and with a designated probation officer who is assigned to the offender. The court will monitor the progress of the offender through the assigned probation officer.

Revocation
Revocation can occur in two ways. It can occur with the successful completion of all the terms and requirements of the court order. In the alternative, it can occur with a violation or an inability to complete the requirements of the court order. Either event will lead to revocation of the probationary period. Successful completion may lead to a lesser charge or non-adjudication of the charge. Revocation due to a violation of the terms can lead to jail time or additional charges.

Your DUI Attorney
Attorney James Robert Ferguson is an experienced DUI attorney with years of experience defending DUI cases. Driving Under the Influence is a serious crime. If you have been charged with DUI, you need an experienced attorney. Attorney Ferguson understands that the stakes are high and the importance of putting the charge behind you. Call us now for a consultation.

See related blog posts:
The Ignition Interlock Device: Unusual Punishment?
A Closer Look at Mississippi’s First Offender DUI Law