The real impact of a DWI depends on a number of factors. One of the major deciding factors behind the ultimate cost of your DWI is whether or not this is your first offense. The price you pay is usually much less if you’ve never been charged with a DWI before, but every case is different. For example, if you caused an accident even though it was your first DWI, you could still face serious punishments. In the state of Utah, a DWI ranges from a Class B misdemeanor to a felony.  If you’re convicted of a felony DWI, you’re looking at prison time. Class B misdemeanors are less serious than a Class A misdemeanor (such as sexual battery and providing alcohol to minors) but they can still land you in jail for up to six months. In addition, you can expect a fine of up to $1,000 to go along with any other punishment that the judge dishes out. How Does a DWI Continue to Impact Me? The impact of a DWI extends beyond just a legal punishment. Your insurance rates will skyrocket, and in some cases the judge might take your license. The fine is just the tip of the iceberg. If you’re facing jail time, your life may be severely disrupted. And of course, a DWI will show up on your criminal record. It makes applying for loans, housing, and jobs much more difficult. How Can a DWI Lawyer Help Me? An experienced lawyer from Rasmussen & Miner can help you get through your DWI battle. Fighting a DWI alone isn’t going to yield the best results, but with the help of a qualified lawyer, you have a chance to make your case heard. It’s important that you and your lawyer analyze every step of your initial arrest. Was the initial traffic stop valid? Were there any errors on the police report? Did the police follow proper procedure? All of these questions can help build a case against the charges you’re facing, and your lawyer can help you find any discrepancies that can help your case. With proper legal assistance, you increase your chances of beating the charges or getting your charges reduced. If it’s your first time dealing with a DWI, you may feel completely overwhelmed. And if it’s not your first time, you may be anxious about what kind of punishment is in store for you. Fortunately, with the help of a DWI lawyer in Salt Lake City UT, you can navigate the legal challenges that come with your DWI, and get all the information you need. If you’re facing a DWI, you need to get legal help as soon as possible. Reach out to Rasmussen & Miner today to get started.