DUI Attorney Serving Las Vegas, NV

Recent Changes to Nevada DUI Law as of Oct 1, 2018

Some significant changes have been implemented in regard to DUI (driving under the influence) penalties in Nevada. With the passage of SB 259, the 90-day license suspension period associated with a first misdemeanor DUI was extended to 185 days. Breath or blood test refusal will also result in driver’s license suspension for one year, even for a first DUI arrest. Additionally, ignition interlock devices are now mandatory after any DUI, whereas they used to only be ordered in cases involving felony DUI or DUI with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .16% or greater. These devices must be installed in one’s car for six months and are also required for anyone seeking a restricted license.

New legislation and case law constantly influence DUI cases in Las Vegas and throughout Nevada. At Ferris Law, we work diligently to stay abreast of these changes, with the full understanding that only knowledgeable representation will grant our clients the chance at getting their lives back on track after DUI arrests and charges.

Penalties for Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

The following are general DUI penalty ranges, in accordance with NRS 484C.400:

• First DUI Offense (misdemeanor):
  • 2 days to 6 months in jail
  • Fine of $400 to $1,000
  • 90-day license suspension
  • Ignition interlock device for 6 months
  • Educational course on alcohol/drug abuse
• Second DUI within 7 years (misdemeanor):
  • 10 days to 6 months in jail
  • Fine of $750 to $1,000
  • 1-year license suspension
  • Ignition interlock device for 1 year
  • Treatment program for alcohol/drug abuse
• Third DUI within 7 years (category B felony):
  • 1 to 6 years in prison
  • Fine of $2,000 to $5,000
  • 3-year license suspension
  • Ignition interlock device for 1 to 3 years
  • Alcohol/drug evaluation

It is important to note that a previous DUI conviction that occurred in any state in the U.S. may count toward a current DUI charge and thus result in greatly enhanced penalties. You will also be responsible for various court fees and for paying the necessary fees for court-ordered educational courses, evaluations, or treatment for drug/alcohol abuse. Failure to complete treatment or courses may result in additional penalties.

Breath Tests, Field Sobriety Tests and Other DUI Evidence

With “failed” field sobriety tests and a breath test result of .08% or greater, the odds may seem stacked against you. It is important to remember that you have the right to a Las Vegas DUI defense lawyer. Exercise this right, and you may be surprised to find that the evidence against you is not as strong as you thought. There are ways to disprove field sobriety test results or bring the validity of a breath test into question. It takes hard work and a meticulous investigation into the matter, and that is the level of counsel provided at Ferris Law.