Driving Under the Influence is a serious traffic offense and one that should not be taken lightly. The easiest way to avoid a DUI is to not drink and drive. Ever. Why take the chance?
In Mississippi, the Legislature added a provision to the DUI law that affords people who have received a first offense DUI ticket the ability to ask the Court for Non-Adjudication. Non-Adjudication means that the Court withholds adjudication of guilt and sentencing and enables the person applying for Non-Adjudication to enter a Court ordered Non-Adjudication program.
If you have received a DUI in the past, this provision may not available for you. Only first time offenders have this option and it can only be used once. In a nutshell, Non-Adjudication enables someone who has received a first offense DUI a chance to keep this violation off his or her record provided that they are able to complete the Court ordered requirements. These requirements consist of paying Court fines, attending MASEP and either electing to accept a driver’s license suspension or obtaining a restricted license with an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle. A person asking for Non-Adjudication will likely get up to 6 months to complete the necessary requirements. Once completed, the Court will review a person’s file and if the requirements have been met, the Court will enter an Order for Non-Adjudication.