The territory of Guam prioritizes sober driving. Laws prohibiting drunk driving include a mandatory sentence of up to one year in jail for your first offense and as much as $5,000 in fines. Penalties can also include a 180-day driver’s license suspension. Second, third or fourth offenses include longer jail or prison sentences and bigger fines. Because of the stiff penalties associated with DUI convictions, you may want to consider challenging your arrest.
Guam’s drunk driving laws and your liability
In addition to the DUI charges, you can also face criminal charges for property damage related to the intoxicated driving incident. Persons injured in a DUI-related crash can also sue for damages in civil court.
Territorial laws aimed at reducing injuries and deaths from intoxicated driving have tended to put increased responsibility for DUI crashes on the driver. Even if passengers were aware their driver may have been intoxicated, the law would not hold them responsible for the driver’s behavior. The law also does not consider bars that serve a motorist alcohol responsible for that driver’s actions, provided the employees who serve alcohol are properly licensed.
Factors to consider when contesting a DUI charge
Each DUI arrest is different. Talk to an attorney who fully understands Guam’s laws on DUI. They can examine the evidence and point out holes in the prosecution’s case. You may qualify for substance abuse education and treatment through the Judiciary of Guam’s DWI Court.
Don’t be afraid to challenge your DUI arrest. You have the same due process rights as anyone else arrested in Guam. Contesting the charge may deliver a better outcome, or ensure you receive the treatment you need.