Sentencing Guidelines in Vermont
Stricter sentencing guidelines are introduced to decrease the amount of crimes committed.  It is important to have the help of seasoned criminal attorney when facing criminal charges.  Sentences in Vermont are imposed according to the severity and type of crime.  There are two classifications for crimes in Vermont – misdemeanors and felonies.
Stricter sentencing guidelines are introduced to decrease the amount of crimes committed.  It is important to have the help of seasoned criminal attorney when facing criminal charges.  Sentences in Vermont are imposed according to the severity and type of crime.  There are two classifications for crimes in Vermont – misdemeanors and felonies.
Misdemeanors and Felonies
Misdemeanors are lesser crimes with jail time of no more than one year. Â A fine can accompany the jail time.
Felonies in Vermont are more serious crimes with imprisonment of two years or more. Â Fines may also accompany imprisonment depending on the type of felony.
In both misdemeanors and felonies in Vermont, sentencing is done according to the offense committed.
DWI Sentences in Vermont
Drunk driving or driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense in Vermont that requires the legal guidance of experienced Burlington DWI attorneys. Â The magnitude of damage a drunk driver can cause is enormous. Â DWI sentences in Vermont were developed according to the number of DWI offenses the individual has committed. Â In addition to a fine, jail time and a license suspension, DWI penalties can include community service, DWI surcharges, educational driving and alcohol addiction classes, and a vehicle interlock system.
For first time DWI offenders, the individual can expect a jail term of up to two years, a fine up to $750, and a 90-day license suspension. A first time DI offense is considered a misdemeanor.
Second time DWI offenders can also expect a jail term of up to two years, a fine up to $1,500, and an 18-month license suspension. Â A second time DWI offense is also considered a misdemeanor.
Third and fourth time DWI offenders may receive a jail term of up to five years and a fine up to $2,500. Â However, a third time DWI offender may have his or her license suspended for life with a possible reinstatement after three years.
A fourth time DWI offender will have their license suspended for life. A third and fourth time DWI offense is a felony.
If a DWI resulted in a fatality or serious bodily injury, an individual will receive up to 15 years in jail. Â A fine of up to $5,000 if the victim is seriously injured can be incurred. Â If the DWI caused a death, the fine can reach $10,000. Â A DWI that results in a fatality or serious injury is a felony and comes with a license suspension of up to one year.
Contact Burlington criminal defense attorneys from the law firm of Bergenron Paradis & Fitzpatrick today by calling 802-316-4318 or by submitting our online contact form.
