Are “alternative” penalties okay for DUI / DWI?
In many cases “alternative” penalties are allowed in DUI / DWI cases. A judge hearing your case may have what is called discretion in deciding how you should be punished. In situations where you have seriously injured or killed another person, the judge may not have such leeway, but in first time offenses, or in less serious matters, a judge may be able to require you to perform community service in the nature of giving talks about the dangers of drunk driving. In other situations, a judge may require you to place a license plate on your vehicle or a mark on your driver’s license that indicates that you have been convicted of DUI / DWI.
