Vermont DUI Law

A DUI charge in the state of Vermont may result in a multitude of penalties, ranging from a criminal conviction, to administrative sanctions, fines, and even the need to perform community service. Therefore, it is key for both residents and out-of-state visitors to understand all of the complexities of the state’s DUI law.

First of all, a DUI conviction can be prosecuted under one of two theories. The first theory follows the concept of impairment due to an intoxicant, which states that an individual whom is under the effects of either/both alcohol or drugs is physically and mentally impaired and thus not able to drive safely. Furthermore, The second legal theory is known as the “per se” law, which states that an individual with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of or higher then .08 percent is intoxicated and unfit to drive.

Vermont DUI Law: Prior-ability

Unlike many states, Vermont DUI law does not have a “washout period”. A “washout period is a unique concept that is designed to aid repeated DUI offenders. For example, in California, the “washout period” is ten years. This means that if an individual received a DUI on a set date, and ten years later received another charge, that second charge would actually be viewed as a first time offense. Unfortunately though, Vermont is one of the few states to not have a “washout period”, and thus repeat offenders may be sentenced too much harsher penalties then they would most likely receive in most other states.

Interstate Driver’s License Compact

It is also important to note that Vermont is a member of the Interstate Driver’s License Compact. This means that if an out-of-state visitor receives a DUI in Vermont, that particular offender may actually receive penalties both in Vermont and in their home state.

Vermont DUI law severely punishes those who drive, as an offender may be sentenced to such penalties as imprisonment, fines, the loss of their driving privileges, the seizure of their vehicle, and so on. Thus, it is highly advised that if you were charged with a DUI in the state of Vermont, that you contact a DUI defense lawyer immediately for consultation.