Bail Bonds for DUI & DWI Mississippi Gulf Coast, MS

The most severe traffic violation in Mississippi Gulf Coast, MS and throughout the entire country, is driving while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances. The charges tend to be serious and costly. Thankfully, D & D Bail Bonds has experience securing fast release from county jails following an arrest.

When any person is arrested for DUI, they are taken to jail. They are frequently transferred to the county jail to be processed and held overnight until either released on their recognizance (OR) or incarcerated until their first court date, known as the arraignment, unless and until the defendant posts bail.

A bail bond (bail posting) is a method of securing a person’s release from jail by offering collateral in the form of money in exchange for their promise to appear at the stated court date on the Notice to Appear document.

The collateral money is then returned to the defendant or their representative once the case has ended and all court appearances have been satisfied.
For a DUI offense, bail is typically set at $5,000-$10,000. However, bail may be set higher if the offense is particularly egregious or if the defendant has multiple prior DUI offenses.

If the defendant is unable to apply for bail, they will be incarcerated until their court hearing. The judge will establish a new bail amount at the arraignment or may release the defendant on their recognizance (OR) if he or she is unable to do so.

An OR release means that the defendant does not have to post any money for bail but simply promises to appear in court on their scheduled date.

If the defendant is released on bail, they will be given the Notice to Appear document, which states the date and time of their next court appearance. It is very important that the defendant appears in court on the date and time listed, or a warrant may be issued for their arrest, and the bail amount may be forfeited.

If you’re arrested for DUI, it’s critical to contact a competent DUI attorney as soon as possible to discuss your situation and begin building your defense. An experienced DUI lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal system, fight for your rights, and protect your interests throughout the process.

Jail Release Assistance 24/7

When a loved one is behind bars, every minute matters. At D & D Bail Bonds, our experienced bail bond agents are available around the clock to provide prompt and reliable assistance. Whether it’s the middle of the night or during a holiday, you can count on us to answer your call and begin the process of securing a quick release. Our agents leverage their deep understanding of local laws, procedures, and detention facilities to navigate the bail process efficiently. No matter the hour, we’re here to ensure you or your loved one gets home as soon as possible.

Are DUIs& DWIs Different?

First and foremost, DUI is an acronym for “driving under the influence.” DWI stands for “driving while intoxicated.” The two often have different meanings, but can sometimes refer to the same offense. Both mean that the driver is charged with a serious traffic violation. Furthermore, both apply to more than alcohol or recreational drugs, but also prescription medications that may impair your driving abilities.

In many states, DUI tackles alcohol, while DWI refers to unknown substances or drugs.

The penalties for a DWI/DUI conviction depend on several factors, including your BAC, whether you have any prior DWI/DUI convictions, and whether anyone was injured as a result of your impaired driving

DWI Fines & Penalties

Driving while intoxicated (DWI) carries severe consequences, as it poses a significant risk to public safety. In Gulfport, MS, and surrounding areas, the penalties for a DWI are designed to deter repeat offenses and hold individuals accountable. Understanding these fines and penalties is crucial to making informed decisions about your actions and compliance with the law.

• First Offense – Up to $2,000 fine, three to 180 days in jail, loss of license for up to one year, $1,000 annual surcharge to retain driver’s license.
• Second Offense – Up to $4,000 fine, five days to one year in jail, loss of license for up to two years, $1,500 annual surcharge to renew driver’s license.
• Third Offense – Up to $10,000 fine, two to 10 years in prison, 10 to 60 days in jail, loss of license for up to 2 years, $2,000 annual surcharge to retain license.

Whether it’s a first or third offense, a DWI can have life-altering consequences. Taking proactive steps, such as seeking legal counsel and complying with all requirements, can help navigate the legal process and work toward minimizing penalties.

DUI Fines & Penalties

Driving under the influence (DUI) penalties aim to address and correct unsafe behavior on the road. For Gulfport residents, understanding these consequences helps underscore the importance of responsible decision-making behind the wheel.

• First Offense – Up to $500 fine, 30 to 180 day license suspension, eight to 40 hours of community service.
• Second/Third Offense – Up to $2,000 fine, suspension of license for 60 to 180 days, jail for up to 180 days
• DUI w/Alcohol – Up to $500 fine, 60-day license suspension, 20 to 40 hours of community service, mandatory alcohol awareness course.

Driving under the influence (DUI) penalties aim to address and correct unsafe behavior on the road. For Gulfport residents, understanding these consequences helps underscore the importance of responsible decision-making behind the wheel.

What does it mean to post bail with a bail bond?

Bail is the term for money paid to a local authority in exchange for being released from jail. The funds given as bail are fully refundable if the defendant makes all required court appearances and is acquitted. Sometimes, a home may be appraised and utilized as collateral rather than money. The real estate must first be appraised before a property bond may be used.

If a person is incarcerated and does not have access to the resources necessary to post bail, a Bail Bonds firm may be able to assist. In exchange for a non-refundable fee, a bail bondsman is someone who puts up collateral on behalf of an in-custody defendant.

The bail bonds fee is usually 10% of the bond’s value. However, when private counsel represents the defendant, this figure may be lower for a higher-value bond or if the crime is serious enough to warrant jail time.

For example, on a $50,000 bail bond, the accused would pay the bondsman $5,000, and the bondsman would post the full amount of money on behalf of the defendant. Because flight risk is lower after the imprisoned has retained private counsel, most bondsmen are eager to offer a reduction.

Understanding the Bail Process for DUI & DWI Charges

After a DUI or DWI arrest, individuals typically appear in court within 24 to 48 hours for a bail hearing. During this process, the judge evaluates the case details and determines whether the individual is eligible for bail. Factors such as the severity of the offense, prior criminal history, and evidence—like BAC levels—are assessed. In some instances, mandatory holds, like the eight-hour hold for high BAC readings, may delay the release process.

At the bail hearing, the court may also consider additional terms for release, such as drug testing or travel restrictions. Defendants can pay bail directly with cash or work with a bail bond company to secure their release for a fraction of the total amount. If bail is denied or set too high, legal representation can request an emergency hearing to modify the terms. Understanding this process ensures a smoother path to release.

Legal Options to Contest or Reduce Bail

If the bail amount or conditions seem excessive, there are legal avenues to challenge them. A defense attorney can file a motion for a bond reduction or modification. During the emergency hearing, both the defense and prosecution present arguments regarding the fairness of the bail terms. The judge then reassesses the amount and conditions, potentially adjusting them based on the new evidence or arguments presented.

In cases where bail has been set unreasonably high, the goal is to demonstrate that the defendant is not a flight risk or a danger to the community. Providing evidence of strong community ties, steady employment, or lack of prior offenses can help secure a more manageable bail amount. Working with experienced legal and bail professionals ensures the best chance of successfully contesting or reducing bail.

Consequences of Failing to Meet Bail Conditions

Bail conditions are not limited to the payment of a bond; they often include additional requirements set by the court. These may involve regular drug testing, attending counseling programs, or adhering to travel restrictions. Failure to comply with these conditions can result in severe repercussions, including bond forfeiture and the issuance of an arrest warrant.

If a defendant violates a condition, it’s critical to act quickly. With the help of a skilled attorney, the court may be persuaded to reinstate the bond under revised terms. However, repeated violations could result in the loss of collateral used to secure the bail and further legal complications. Understanding and adhering to bail conditions is crucial to maintaining one’s freedom and avoiding additional penalties.

Why Choose Us

At D & D Bail Bonds, we’re more than just a bail bond agency; we’re a trusted partner for the Mississippi Gulf Coast community. We understand that life’s challenges can arise unexpectedly, and our goal is to provide compassionate, reliable, and efficient bail bond services when you need them most. Our team is deeply rooted in the community, offering personalized assistance and ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience for every client. With a commitment to fast releases, 24/7 availability, and clear communication, we strive to restore peace of mind during difficult times. Reach out to us and let us help you get your loved one home quickly and safely.

Schedule a free consultation with D & D Bail Bonds today. Call us at (228) 539-0700!