Portland DUI Lawyers

Frequently Asked Questions: DUII / DUI in Portland, Oregon

What should I do after a Portland DUI arrest?

After an arrest for drunk driving in Portland, Oregon, the most important step you can take is to consult a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Only an experienced lawyer will be able to review your situation and determine what you need to do at this point. It is important to remember that you have the right to remain silent, and you have the right to an attorney. These rights exist to help ensure that you have the chance at fair treatment and justice in the judicial system. Use these rights, and you will have a better chance of coming out of this situation unscathed.

Will my license be suspended?

After a Portland DUI (driving under the influence) arrest, you will face license suspension or revocation. However, if you act and contact the Hearings Case Management Unit of the Oregon DMV within 10 calendar days of your arrest, you will have the opportunity to contest the suspension of your license and possibly keep your driving privileges.

How can an attorney help me at my DMV hearing?

An experienced Portland DUI attorney can act as your legal representation at your DMV hearing in order to help you reach the best outcome possible. By thoroughly preparing for this administrative hearing as he or she would your criminal case, your attorney can fight to help you keep your driver’s license. Although this is an administrative process, legal representation will still be key in obtaining a positive result.

Will I go to jail?

In Oregon, DUII (driving under the influence of intoxicants) is typically a misdemeanor offense. This means that if you are convicted, you may face maximum penalties of up to one year of imprisonment in a county correctional facility. Imprisonment is a definite possibility in any Portland DUI case, but the skill and experience of your attorney will be a determining factor as to whether you actually spend any time in jail.

What if I am an out of state driver?

Even if you are from another state, you may still face DUI charges in Oregon if you are pulled over for suspected drunk driving. You may face criminal penalties in Oregon and license suspension in your home state if you are convicted. The DUI defense lawyers at our firm are experienced in handling out of state DUI charges and can offer you a consultation regarding this.

What types of penalties may I face if I am convicted?

If you are convicted of DUI, you may face license suspension, imprisonment, probation, community service, drug or alcohol treatment, fines and court fees. The specific penalties you face will vary depending upon your specific charges, whether this is a multiple DUI offense and whether anyone was injured.

Contact a Portland DUI lawyer at our firm today!