Driving under the influence (DUI) charges can be harsher than many people realize. Given that, those arrested for DUI with a minor-aged child in the vehicle can have their charges enhanced at a higher level. Read on for a guide on what could happen if you get convicted of an aggravated DUI.

About Aggravated DUI Charges

An ordinary DUI can bring jail time, probation, a loss of driving privileges, and more—and that is when the charges are at the misdemeanor level. If special circumstances exist, though, the situation may rise to the level of an aggravated DUI charge. Other than having a minor-aged child on the vehicle with you at the time of the stop and arrest, the below enhancements could also call for an aggravated DUI charge.

• Accidents, with or without injuries.
• The death of a passenger or others.
• Fleeing from law enforcement.
• Destruction of property.
• Resisting arrest.
• Super high blood alcohol concentrations.

Aggravated DUI charges could mean being charged with a felony and that could mean jail time, longer probationary periods, higher fines, a longer loss of your driver's license, and much more. Things could get worse, however, when a child is involved.

Child Endangerment Charges

You can also be charged outside the scope of the DUI with child endangerment. When a parent places a minor child in a situation in which they could be harmed, that is child endangerment. Those who drink and drive may be more likely to get in an accident and thus the child could be harmed. Unless the child is injured, however, child endangerment is usually charged at a misdemeanor level. When other crimes are involved, though, like DUI, you can face more consequences. Standing before a judge about your DUI case will be far different if child endangerment charges are also included.

Issues With Child Custody

If you have the misfortune to be involved in a divorce and a child custody case, being convicted of having a child in the vehicle at the time of the DUI will spell nothing but bad news. If you expect to gain custody of your child, you must fight the charges. If the DUI charges are dropped, the child endangerment charges will likely follow. Even child visitation can be negatively affected by this type of situation. You may end up having to spend time with your child only under supervised visitation circumstances if you are convicted.

Being convicted of aggravated DUI can cause a domino effect in your life. You could lose your relationships, your job, your driving privileges, and so much more. Speak to a criminal defense or DUI lawyer about your case and fight the charges with everything your attorney can find to do so. You won't regret the action.