How to Deal with Community Service, Alcohol Education, and DUI Fines
Having been convicted of DUI comes with a set of consequences that you have to deal with - whether you like it or not. These include one, or a combination of the following: jail time, community service, alcohol education, and paying DUI fines. What will be imposed on you will generally depend on the severity of your case and if you are a first-time or repeat offender.
Community service
Completing community service hours is usually given as an option instead of having to serve jail time or pay a very high fine. When entering into a community service program, think right away that doing this is better than going to jail. With the right frame of mind, not only will you make amends for your DUI case but also help you give back to society. In some cases, a judge will allow you to choose the community service organization so make this an opportunity to do "volunteer work" for an organization that you feel strongly about. You might also be assigned to do work for an organization that deals with drunk driving prevention. Being sensitive and at your best behavior will not only make you complete your hours without incident but also see the "other side" as well. Whatever the case, be sure that the hours you served are properly recorded as proof of completion of your sentence.
Alcohol education
Alcohol education classes are also ordered, especially if you want to have your license back. Be receptive as these may prevent you from relapsing and being a repeat offender. Try to live out whatever you learn in these classes as this will benefit you in the end when you get your license back.
DUI fines
After conviction, you will be imposed with criminal fines, restitution, or both. These fines generally depend on the severity of your case. But basically, these are imposed both as punishment and deterrent. You can't wiggle out of these so the best thing to do is to pay them on time. If you cannot afford to pay huge amounts in one go, try to ask for a payment arrangement.