Getting arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) is both scary and frustrating. Not only do you face significant penalties such as jail time, fines and license suspension, but having a DUI on your criminal record can also damage your professional reputation and personal relationships.
What Is a Wet Reckless?
If you are unable to have your entire case dismissed, it may be possible to have your charge reduced to a “wet reckless,” which is a type of reckless driving charge that specifically pertains to alcohol or drug use. Wet reckless charges typically come with fewer obligations, punishments, and costs than a DUI. As such, a wet reckless is considered the most favorable outcome for someone charged with drunk driving.
About Idaho Law
Keep in mind, Idaho law does not explicitly allow or prohibit wet-reckless plea deals. This means that lawyers can make an appeal for a plea bargain, but there is little to no indication of whether it will be effective.
Further, Idaho’s reckless and inattentive driver laws and penalties are different than those surrounding DUIs.
If a wet reckless conviction is obtained, it will reduce the sentencing of the case. However, it will still appear as a drunk driving charge on your criminal record.
*Information about Idaho laws is current as of 4/10/2020.
Benefits of a wet reckless conviction include the following:
- Less jail time
- Lower fines
- Shorter license suspension
In general, prosecutors may offer a wet reckless due to several factors, such as the fact that it was your first-time offense, you have no prior criminal history, and your BAC level at the time of arrest was a little below or at the legal limit. On the other hand, if your DUI arrest involved an accident, injuries or fatalities, then prosecutors may be reluctant to reduce the charges.
Talk to a Criminal Defense Attorney Today
Whether you want to fight the charges against you or try to plea to lesser charges, our Pocatello criminal defense attorneys at May, Rammell & Wells are committed to helping you get the best outcome possible. We can review your case, figure out which legal option sare available to you, and build a strong defense strategy to obtain the results and justice you deserve.
For more information, contact us and request a consultation today.