Are there any collateral consequences associated with a DWI charge?

Yes, there are several collateral consequences associated with a DWI charge in New Mexico. Collateral consequences are the additional legal punishments that individuals may face beyond conviction or sentencing. Many of these consequences can have a long-term impact on someone’s employability and quality of life. One collateral consequence of a DWI in New Mexico is a 6-month driver’s license suspension. Depending on the offense, this suspension could be extended. Additionally, if someone’s DWI was related to an accident involving injury or death, they may be required to have an ignition interlock device (IID) installed in their vehicle. Although the installation and maintenance costs for an IID are the responsibility of the driver, having an IID in a car can be a strong deterrent for employers who may otherwise consider the driver for a job. In addition to restricted driving privileges, DWI convictions can also cause serious financial issues. Someone convicted of a DWI may have to pay heavy fines and high insurance premiums. They may also have to complete court-mandated programs and pay for supervised probation or community service. Unless they have legal representation, they may also face attorney’s fees. Finally, having a DWI on one’s record may also make it more difficult to find housing or receive certain government benefits. This stigma can follow someone for the rest of their life, no matter how much time has passed since the offense. It is important for anyone facing a DWI charge in New Mexico to recognize the additional consequences that may come with a conviction and seek legal advice to protect their rights.

Related FAQs

What should I do if I’m pulled over and asked to take a Breathalyzer test?
How can I find an attorney who specializes in DWI law?
Is there a minimum jail sentence for a DWI conviction?
How can I find out if I have any DWI-related criminal offenses on my record?
What should I expect during my initial consultation with a DWI lawyer?
What should I expect during a DWI trial?
Are there any legal limits on how much alcohol I can consume before driving?
Does a DWI conviction stay on my criminal record?
Are there any alternatives to having a suspended license if convicted of a DWI?
Is it possible to have a DWI conviction overturned?

Are there any collateral consequences associated with a DWI charge?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts