Many criminal offenses in New Hampshire come with aggravating factors that increase the severity of any penalties upon conviction. One of the offenses that an individual could face enhanced penalties for is DUI. For instance, if a driver arrested on suspicion of drunk driving had a child under a certain age in the vehicle at the time, a DUI charge could easily turn into an aggravated one.
A New Hampshire mother recently found this out when she was arrested for driving under the influence with her 4-year-old son in the backseat. According to preliminary reports, the boy was calling for help while his mother was passed out behind the wheel of her vehicle.
By the time police arrived, officers report the woman was awake, but her slurred and slowed speech, and bloodshot eyes indicated impairment. Police arrested the woman on suspicion of aggravated DUI and endangering the welfare of her child. If prosecutors file charges against her, she faces an uncertain future. A conviction would undoubtedly have a significant impact on her life. Due to the aggravating factors involved, the situation is dire even if this is her first offense.
In any situation in which an individual faces a DUI charge, it is important to consult with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Doing so takes on even more significance when the charge turns into an aggravated DUI. Everyone has the right to challenge the charges against him or her, and taking advantage of this right could help reveal the best possible outcome to the situation.
