It has always been true that those accused of driving under the influence could face a lengthy prison sentence and also hefty fines if convicted on the charges. However, the consequences for repeat offenders may have become graver due to a new North Carolina law. Under the new law, repeat drunk driving offenders could find themselves spending substantially more time behind bars.

The law, known as Laura's Law, was signed this past June in response to a 17-year-old girl who was killed by a drunk driver. Reportedly, the driver had previously been imprisoned for a DUI conviction, and he also wore an ankle monitoring device for 60 days after he was released. But shortly after the ankle monitor was removed, the man once again engaged in drinking and driving.

The mother of the girl hopes the new law will prevent such incidents in the future. The new law increases the amount of time an ankle monitor must be worn from 60 days to at least four months. Additionally, those who are sentenced to 36 months in jail must actually spend 36 months in jail. Previously, a drunk driving offender could be released early, presumably for good behavior. The law also upped offense fines to a maximum of $10,000 for repeat offenders.

The new law makes it all the more important for those charged with a DUI to mount the presentation of a strong and meaningful defense. In drunk driving arrests, there may well be questions about the veracity of a blood alcohol content test. Furthermore, police must conduct themselves in a certain manner, and a failure to do so may mean the arrest was illegal.

Source: WCNC News, "Laura's Law cracks down on repeat DWI offenders," Dec. 1, 2011