Fines and jail time are the two most commonly-discussed consequences of getting a DUI conviction, but you could be facing quite a few other serious problems. In fact, sometimes you don't even have to be guilty to be punished! If you weren't dead-set on avoiding a DUI already, some of these lesser-known punishments will make your mind up for you.

You Can Suffer Suspension For Refusing Testing

When you are arrested, you might think you have a choice in whether or not you take a blood, urine, or breath test for alcohol. However, if you refuse all three types of test, you're likely to get into trouble even if your case is dismissed.

When a driver is convicted of a DUI in any state, his or her license is subject to mandatory suspension for a predetermined amount of time. The length of the suspension generally increases with number of offenses, but even a first suspension can go on for several months. While a dismissal will prevent you from having to pay fines or spend time in jail, you'll still face this license suspension if you refuse to submit to alcohol testing after your arrest.

Being A Minor Doesn't Ensure Gentler Treatment

Unlike other crimes where minors are treated more leniently, minors who drink and drive get booked with the additional charge of drinking while underage and can face more numerous penalties than adults. Underage drivers can also be arrested and charged with a DUI for having a BAC as low as .02%, compared to the .08% legal limit for adults.

In most states, mandatory assessment for alcohol addiction is required for minors convicted of a DUI, and substance abuse avoidance classes are typically assigned as well. Some states also require mandatory community service as part of the sentence for underage drunk driving, especially if another person is hurt or property is damaged due to the driver's actions.

Minors may see their licenses suspended for as long as a year for drunk driving, and many states go so far as to explicitly try them as adults in court.

The State May Take Your Vehicle

Having a vehicle impounded, either temporarily or permanently, is a rarely-discussed consequence of a DUI in many states. In a typical conviction, your vehicle won't be taken on the first offense. However, on subsequent offenses or in severe cases, courts reserve the right to have your car hauled away to the impound lot.

If the offense is your 3rd or more, you likely will never see your car again. However, cars taken on the second offense can usually be bought back by the owner from the impound lot after paying heavy fines and administrative fees; they act more like collateral to ensure the state gets its money from you.

When it comes to a DUI conviction, jail and fines are just the tip of the iceberg. If you're worried you may be convicted of a DUI, don't hesitate to talk to a lawyer like Mullican Law Office about your options. You could be facing a mountain of troubles.