Honolulu Out-of-State DUI Lawyer

Experienced Out-of-State DUI Attorney In Honolulu, HI

Facing charges of driving under the influence (DUI) while visiting another state can be overwhelming. It can be difficult to be present for every necessary court appearance when you live out of state. A Honolulu out-of-state DUI lawyer can help you through the DUI process and represent you in court.

Hire an Out-of-State DUI Lawyer

When you receive an out-of-state DUI, it can have serious consequences. You could face penalties in the arresting state and in your home state. When you hire an out-of-state DUI lawyer, you gain an ally who can represent you in court and advise you on the potential consequences you are facing. At The Law Office of R. Patrick McPherson, we have more than two decades of experience representing DUI charges in Honolulu and across Oahu.

Alcohol-Related Fatalities in Hawaii

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System, as of 2023, Hawaii had the highest percentage of alcohol-related traffic fatalities at 42%. Of the 93 total traffic fatalities, 39 were due to alcohol-related crashes.

An out-of-state DUI is handled in the jurisdiction where it was issued. If you receive a DUI in Honolulu, the case is handled by the Kauikeaouli Hale District Court. Felony cases and jury trials are handled by the Circuit Court at Ka’ahumanu Hale. The Administrative Driver’s License Revocation Office handles communications with your home state if your driver’s license is suspended.

Unique Challenges of an Out-of-State DUI

Receiving a DUI charge can be difficult under any circumstances, but receiving one while traveling outside of your home state adds many additional challenges to the process. Some of these are listed below:

• Lack of local knowledge. The DUI process can be challenging, but it is more difficult when you are unaware of local laws and regulations. A local DUI attorney can advise you of important deadlines, such as when to appeal a license suspension.
• Court appearances. It can be difficult to appear in person for the required court dates when you live out of state, but your local DUI attorney can appear on your behalf and keep you informed of any important developments in your case.
• Driver’s License Compact. When you receive a DUI outside of your home state, that information is made available to your home state through the Interstate Driver’s License Compact. You may face penalties in Hawaii and in your home state that have to be resolved separately.
• Ignition Interlock Devices (IID). Hawaii mandates the use of an IID for DUI convictions. If you are convicted and face this penalty, you then have to coordinate with Hawaii’s probation department and an appropriate IID provider in your area.
• Failure to appear. If you decide to leave Hawaii without resolving the DUI, a judge can issue a bench warrant for your arrest. A bench warrant could result in your arrest the next time you enter the state, or an extradition order could be issued if the charges were severe.

Contact An Honest Local Law Firm

The consequences of an out-of-state DUI can be more severe than receiving a DUI in your home state because you may receive penalties from both states. It is wise to seek a knowledgeable Honolulu out-of-state DUI attorney to represent your interests and safeguard your rights. Contact The Law Office of R. Patrick McPherson to schedule your initial consultation.