The Immediate & Long-Term Consequences of a DUI Conviction in Alberta | Kolinsky Law

 

Facing a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge in Alberta is a serious matter with severe legal, financial, and personal repercussions. Whether it’s your first offence or a repeat charge, understanding the immediate and long-term consequences can help you make informed decisions about your defence.

At Kolinsky Law, our experienced DUI Lawyer Edmonton help clients navigate the complexities of DUI charges, minimise penalties and protect their futures. If you or a loved one has been charged, contact us immediately for a consultation: Impaired Driving Lawyer Edmonton.

Immediate Consequences of a DUI Conviction in Alberta

1. License Suspensions

A DUI charge triggers automatic license suspensions under Alberta’s Immediate Roadside Sanction (IRS) program and the Criminal Code:

First Offence:

• 90-day administrative suspension (provincial)
• 1-year criminal suspension if convicted
• Mandatory ignition interlock for 1 year after suspension

Second Offence:

• License suspension for 2+ years
• Extended ignition interlock requirement (3 years)

Third+ Offence:

• Potential lifetime driving ban in extreme cases

If your license is suspended, you may still need to drive for work or family obligations. Our DUI defence lawyers can explore legal avenues to help you regain driving privileges sooner. Learn more about DUI license suspensions here.

2. Fines & Financial Penalties

A DUI conviction comes with heavy fines, including:

First Offence:

• $1,000+ fine (minimum under Criminal Code)
• Victim Surcharge Fee (additional 30%)
• Increased insurance premiums (up to 300%)

Repeat Offences:

• Fines up to $5,000+
• Possible jail time

Beyond court fines, you may face towing fees, legal costs, and mandatory DUI education programs, adding thousands to your expenses.

3. Ignition Interlock Requirements

Alberta’s Ignition Interlock Program requires offenders to install a breathalyser device in their vehicle:

• First Conviction: 1-year interlock requirement
• Second Conviction: 3+ years
• Failure to comply results in extended suspensions

This device prevents your car from starting if alcohol is detected, adding humiliation and inconvenience to daily life.

Long-Term Consequences of a DUI Conviction

1. Criminal Record & Employment Consequences

A DUI conviction results in a permanent criminal record, affecting:

• Job Opportunities — Many employers conduct background checks, and a DUI can disqualify you from jobs in transportation, healthcare, education, and government.
• Professional Licenses — Nurses, pilots, and commercial drivers may lose their certifications.
• Immigration & Travel — A DUI can bar entry into the U.S. and other countries.

Can you lose your job over a DUI in Alberta? Find out here.

2. Travel Restrictions

A DUI conviction can severely limit international travel:

United States:

• A single DUI can require a U.S. Entry Waiver (costing thousands).
• Border agents deny entry at their discretion.

Other Countries:

• Australia, Japan, and others may deny visas for criminal records.

Fighting your charge is critical if travel is essential for work or family.

3. Skyrocketing Insurance Rates

After a DUI, insurers classify you as “high-risk”, leading to:

• 300%+ increase in premiums
• Mandatory SR-22 insurance filing (proof of high-risk coverage)
• Possible policy cancellation

These costs can persist for 5–10 years, making a DUI one of the most expensive mistakes of your life.

4. Potential Jail Time for Repeat Offenders

While first-time DUIs often result in fines and suspensions, repeat offenders face jail time:

• Second DUI: 30 days to several months in jail
• Third+ DUI: Months to years in prison
• Aggravating Factors (e.g., injury, high BAC) increase penalties

A strong legal defence can reduce or eliminate jail time. Explore DUI penalties in Alberta here.

How Kolinsky Law Can Help Fight Your DUI Charge

If you’ve been charged with impaired driving, over 80, or refusal, you don’t have to face this alone. Our Edmonton DUI Lawyers can:

✔ Challenge the traffic stop — Was there reasonable suspicion?
✔ Question breathalyser accuracy — Calibration errors? Improper procedure?
✔ Negotiate reduced charges — Plea to a lesser offence (e.g., careless driving)
✔ Avoid a criminal record — Explore diversion programs or discharges

You’ve been charged with DUI in Edmonton — now what? Get answers here.

Don’t Let a DUI Ruin Your Life — Call Kolinsky Law Today

A DUI conviction has lasting consequences, but an experienced lawyer can make a difference. At Kolinsky Law, we fight aggressively to protect your license, record, and future.

📞 Contact us now for a consultation: Impaired Driving Lawyer Edmonton.

Related Articles:

• Driving Over 80 vs. Impaired Driving: Key Differences
• DUI vs. DWI: Understanding the Legal Distinctions
• How Do DUI Charges Affect Your License in Alberta?

Act fast — your future depends on it. 🚗⚖️