Community Service

Drivers arrested for drunk driving may face a variety of fines and penalties. One of these penalties may include performing community service. Community service includes performing work without pay for a nonprofit or civic organization (Salvation Army, the Red Cross, YMCA, or the local humane society). Other drivers with a specific skill set such as a doctor or plumber may be able to donate their time to a specific organization.

Community service may benefit not only the driver but also the community at large. It is cost-effective for taxpayers, as it reduces the burden of overcrowding jails. Generally, the time spent performing community service is in lieu of jail time. Community service is generally awarded to first time DUI offenders and may be combined with other fines and penalties. If you are given community service all service hours must be recorded and provided to the court to prove you have completed your community service requirements.