Getting arrested for a DUI for the first time in Las Vegas can be a frightening and confusing experience. You may be unsure of what to expect, how serious the charge is, or what your next steps should be. While a first-time DUI in Nevada is typically charged as a misdemeanor, it still carries significant penalties and long-term consequences. Understanding what happens next can help you protect your rights and prepare for what’s ahead.

The Arrest and Booking Process

After a DUI stop in Las Vegas, if police determine you’re under the influence, typically based on field sobriety tests or a breath/blood test, you’ll be arrested and taken to jail. You’ll likely be booked at the Clark County Detention Center, where your photograph and fingerprints will be taken. You may be released on bail or your own recognizance, depending on the circumstances.

DMV License Suspension

In addition to the criminal case, the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will take administrative action against your license. If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was 0.08% or higher, the DMV will issue a 90-day license suspension, even if you haven’t been convicted yet. You have just seven days from the date of your arrest to request a hearing to contest this suspension. If you miss this window, your license will be automatically suspended.

First-Time DUI Penalties in Nevada

For a first-time DUI offense in Las Vegas (without injury or death), the penalties typically include:

• 2 days to 6 months in jail (or 48 to 96 hours of community service)
• $400 to $1,000 in fines, plus court costs
• Mandatory DUI education class
• 90-day driver’s license suspension
• Victim impact panel attendance
• Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) may be required for up to 6 months

While jail time can often be avoided for first-time offenders, the financial and personal impact of a DUI conviction is still significant.

The Court Process

Your DUI case will be handled through the Las Vegas Justice Court. The process typically includes:

1. Arraignment – Your first court appearance where you’ll enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest).
2. Pre-trial conferences – Your attorney can negotiate a plea deal or challenge evidence.
3. Trial – If no plea agreement is reached, your case may go to trial before a judge.

Having a skilled DUI attorney at this stage is crucial. They can challenge the traffic stop, the validity of test results, or negotiate for reduced charges (such as a “wet reckless”).

Long-Term Consequences

A DUI conviction goes on your criminal and driving record, impacting insurance rates, employment opportunities, and potentially professional licenses. It also counts as a prior offense if you’re ever charged again, which can lead to harsher penalties. A second DUI within seven years in Nevada is treated much more seriously.

Bottom Line

A first-time DUI in Las Vegas is a serious legal matter. Acting quickly, especially with the DMV, and hiring an experienced DUI defense attorney can help you navigate the process, protect your rights, and possibly minimize the penalties you face.