609-566-9686If you find yourself with a DUI conviction, then your judge could mandate you to take a DWI class. While DWI classes are better alternatives to jail time, you might have some worries about what the classes entail. You can prepare yourself for your classes by knowing what to expect.
Who takes DUI classes?
In many states, judges make DUI offenders take DUI classes. Some courts refer to these classes as DUI alcohol education and treatment programs. No matter what your judge calls it, the result is the same. If he requires you to take DUI education, then you need to attend a DUI school. As part of the consequences, you need to pay for the classes out of your own pocket. The classes can be costly and can vary depending on the length of your class.
Anyone who has a drunk driving offense could be required to take DWI classes. In some states, judges require it for all DUI offenders. In other states, it is less common.
Commonly Asked Questions
Unless you have taken a DUI class before, your probably don’t know much about it. Here are a few commonly asked questions about DWI classes:
1. How long are the classes?
The length of your classes depends on a variety of factors. For one, it depends on the severity of your DWI. If you had a low BAC and didn’t cause an accident, then a judge might only require a few classes. However, a more serious drunk driving incident could result in a longer course.
Another factor that affects your course length is your prior history. If you have a history of trouble with alcohol, then a judge could sentence you to a longer course. The worse your history, the longer your course.
Finally, your judge’s bias affects the length of your course. Some judges take harsh stances against drinking and driving. If you have a judge who takes a strong stance against drunk driving, then she might require you to take a long course. There is no way to say how long your DUI course will last until the judge sentences you. However, your lawyer might be able to give you an idea of what to expect.
2. What is a DUI assessment?
In some situations, you might need to take a DUI assessment. This is a tool that determines the severity of your drinking problem. Additionally, it helps the court determine how many DWI classes you need.
3. What do you learn in the classes?
One of the most common questions is about the class material. In your DUI class, you learn several different things. For one, you learn how alcohol and drugs impact your driving ability. Your certified instructor explains the ways that alcohol and substances can affect your reflexes and driving skills.
Additionally, your instructor teaches you about the consequences of a DWI conviction. You can learn what to expect and how future DWIs can affect your life. Most people don’t fully comprehend the significance of a drunk driving conviction until they learn about it in class.
Finally, you also learn how to prevent drinking and driving. There are many things that you can do to limit your chances of another DWI. In your class, your instructor will explain the best ways to avoid future trouble with the law.
4. Why are classes required?
Many states offer DWI classes as an alternative to harsher punishments. By requiring you to take classes, the court offers you a learning opportunity. They hope that you learn how to handle your alcohol and drug use. Additionally, they want you to learn about the safety risks of drunk driving.
Instead of sitting in a jail cell, you can learn how to end your drug problems. The court doesn’t want to see repeat offenders. They would rather you learn your lesson and make better choices. Through DUI classes, you can educate yourself towards a brighter future. You might be able to come to terms with your drinking or substance abuse problem. Once you have that under control, DWIs won’t be a problem.
5. What are the class requirements?
Everyone has different requirements for their DWI class. For example, some individuals might only need to take the assessment. This is often true of individuals who want a restricted or temporary driving license. However, individuals usually must take the classes. The one major requirement is that you take the class for the length of time that the judge mandates.
It’s also important that you take a class that the court recognizes. While there are many DUI schools, not all of them offer court-recognized classes. Before you sign up for a course, check with the court. You should be particularly careful with online courses. Although some states allow you to take online DWI classes, other states prohibit it. If you take a course that the court does not recognize, then you need to take another one that it does recognize. This costs you time and money.
6. Can you fail DWI classes?
You can fail DUI classes. However, you can usually retake the exam. Usually, there is a lot of room for error.
