DUI vs DWI in Utah
Facing a DUI or DWI charge near Salt Lake City? You’re not alone. Every day, people across Utah search for “dui vs dwi near me” trying to understand what they’re up against. Whether you’re confused about what the charges mean, or scared about what comes next, we’re here to help.
Utah is admired throughout the country for its scenic mountain ranges, red rock-lined biking trails, pristine ski slopes, and hardworking citizens. However, it’s also a historically conservative state with some fairly strict drunk driving laws. Whether you live in Utah or are just traveling through, being pulled over and charged with driving under the influence (DUI) could subject you to some steep penalties if you’re convicted.
If you have been charged with a DUI, contact a Utah DUI defense attorney at Wasatch Defense Lawyers by calling 801-980-9965.
The Difference Between DWI and DUI
Both driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while impaired (DWI) are fairly self-descriptive: a DUI charge can be levied if you’re alleged to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while behind the wheel, while DWI may be a more appropriate description if you’re under the influence but haven’t quite reached the legal threshold of intoxication. However, in Utah, DWI is not a stand-alone charge — although prosecutors have the discretion to offer (and judges the discretion to approve) a DWI conviction as part of a plea deal for someone facing DUI charges, law enforcement officers are unable to arrest someone and charge them with DWI.
As a result, the main differences between these charges become evident during the sentencing phase. Penalties for a DUI conviction under current Utah law include::
- The revocation of your driver’s license for at least 120 days;
- The installation of an ignition interlock device on your vehicle (which you’ll usually be required to pay for yourself) once your license is returned to you; and
- Two days or more in jail, as well as fines and court fees.
If your BAC is measured at 0.16 or higher at the time of your arrest, you could face more enhanced penalties, including the loss of your driver’s license for a longer period of time or a habitual offender classification if you’re arrested again.
On the other hand, despite also being considered a B misdemeanor under Utah law, a DWI conviction carries much less severe potential penalties. If you plead guilty to DWI, you shouldn’t be required to spend any time in jail, you may be able to keep your driver’s license (although often subject to restrictions for a period of time), and defendants without any prior criminal history might be able to enter into a diversion agreement that can result in the dismissal of these charges after successfully completing probation.
DWI vs DUI Near Me: Utah Law Explained
Utah is unique. It has the strictest BAC limit in the nation: 0.05%. That means even small amounts of alcohol can lead to a DUI charge. And if an officer believes you are impaired—even if you blow below the limit—you can still be charged.
If you typed “dui or dwi difference near Salt Lake City,” here’s the truth: Utah doesn’t care what you call it. If you’re impaired, you can be arrested and charged.
What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Utah?
- Immediate license suspension (within 10 days)
- Criminal charges filed
- Possible jail time, fines, and probation
- Requirement for DUI education classes or treatment
These charges can affect your job, your family, and your future.
Which Is Worse: DUI or DWI?
In Utah, DUI is the only charge, but in states that use both terms, DWI may sometimes carry harsher penalties. Regardless of the name, the consequences are life-altering if you don’t fight back.
Utah doesn’t differentiate – but the impact on your life depends on what you do next.
What Are the Penalties for DUI in Utah?
- Up to 180 days in jail (first offense)
- Fines starting at $1,370
- 120-day to 2-year license suspension
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID) required
- Long-term effects on your driving record
Penalties increase dramatically for repeat offenses or aggravated factors (like having a child in the car).
How a Local DUI Attorney Can Help
If you’re Googling “dui lawyer near me” or “defense attorney nearby,” chances are you’re worried. Here’s how we can help:
- Investigate the traffic stop legality
- Review BAC test procedures and errors
- Challenge field sobriety tests
- Negotiate reductions or dismissals
- Stand by your side with experience and compassion
With over 650 trials, we have the experience to fight for you in court and the empathy to guide you through the storm.
Why Wasatch Defense Lawyers?
- 24/7 availability
- Free case evaluations
- Top-rated attorneys in Salt Lake City
- More 5-star reviews than any other Utah criminal defense firm
Aggressive DWI and DUI Defense Lawyer in Utah
A DUI or DWI in Utah is not something that should be taken lightly and anyone who has been charged with Driving Under the Influence (drunk driving) should approach their DUI defense only with adequate legal representation. If you’ve been charged with DUI/DWI, contact an expert Utah DUI attorney immediately at the Wasatch Defense Lawyers.
