Free Consultation
(702) 366-0891
Lightbar on top of a police car
DUI /
03.03.14

The Difference Between a Misdemeanor and Felony Drunk Driving Arrest

G. T. Ogata
Share to Social

In Nevada, you can get charged with either a misdemeanor or felony drunk driving arrest charge. As any competent Las Vegas DUI attorney can tell you, there’s a world of difference between the two charges. You probably already know that a felony is a very serious charge that can haunt you as you attempt to seek employment or to move on from past mistakes. Fortunately, you’re more likely to get a misdemeanor charge at first, with one major exception.

While you’ll typically only get a felony after your third DUI, you could get charged with a felony if your DUI caused significant bodily harm or death to a third party. In other words, the Nevada law is set up so that a perpetrator is punished more severely as they receive more and more DUIs, but it has zero tolerance for anyone whose drunk driving harms others so seriously. You’ll certainly need a quality DUI lawyer in Las Vegas if you’re facing a felony charge.

As for the differences between a misdemeanor and a felony drunk driving arrest charge, you’ll find that the main difference is simply the severity of your penalties. Compared to a misdemeanor, you’re almost guaranteed to have a longer jail sentence, a bigger fine, more mandatory alcohol classes, and a longer suspension of your license with a felony charge. The other big difference is that the criminal case against you in a felony will result in a jury trial, because it’s such a serious crime. No matter what, having a quality Las Vegas DUI lawyer on your side could make all the difference.

Feel free to reach out and speak with our experienced team of professionals who are here to provide you with expert guidance.
You’ve Gotta Get Ogata
Defense with a Blade, Not Just a Briefcase
The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute a client relationship.