If you have been charged with DUI (drinking while under the influence) or with DWI (driving while intoxicated), you could be facing high fines, possible incarceration and a criminal mark on your record. However, if you are a mom that drank one too many alcoholic drinks at the party after your kid's little league game, you could be in a lot more trouble if you get caught driving while under the influence or intoxicated with your kids in the vehicle.

Tougher Penalties For Intoxicated Drivers With Kids In The Car

Drinking one drink and driving with your children in the car can mean you going to jail and possibly losing your kids to child services. In fact, if you are caught driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol while your kids are with you, you could end up carrying the mark on your record for a long time. A DWI or DUI arrest that involves kids in the vehicle could mean your potential employers avoiding you, future landlords not allowing you to rent a home and you could be locked into higher insurance rates for a long time as well. Hiring the best DWI/DUI attorney for court is vital and could mean the difference between you remaining incarcerated for several years or going home of house arrest and probation.

What If Your Kids Are Taken To Child Services During A DUI/DWI Arrest?

If your children are taken to child services while you are being taken to jail, your need for a qualified attorney is bigger than ever. Proving you are fit to get your kids back after your court date can be challenging, more so in areas that have stricter laws. You need an attorney with a lot of experience in child services cases involving DUI/DWI arrest stops. If you are caught driving while intoxicated and your kids are with you, you could also be facing child endangerment and child neglect/abuse charges.

Having A Plan Is Always A Good Idea To Avoid Disasters

If you are a parent or legal guardian and you are going someplace you know serves alcoholic beverages and you drink, finding a driver is best, especially if the kids are going to be along with you. Taking unnecessary risks with your kids' lives is foolish and should never be a consideration under any circumstances. If you are unable to locate a driver for your party, avoiding alcohol altogether is your only other option for ensuring the safety of your kids.

If you have been charged with DUI/DWI while your children were with you, taking steps to stop drinking or taking drugs is most important. Stopping the abuse to your mind and body is the only way you will live to see your children grow up, especially if they have been taken to child services because of your DUI/DWI violation. To learn more, contact an expert at Hornthal Riley Ellis & Maland LLP.