29 Dec Swimmer Michael Phelps avoids jail time in DUI conviction

On behalf of Jack B. Rubin, PA posted in Drunk Driving on Monday, December 29, 2014.

Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps pleaded guilty to a DUI charge in a Maryland courtroom on Dec. 19, and he avoided jail as a result of his plea. The charge stemmed from an incident that occurred on Sept. 30. Phelps was stopped for allegedly crossing a double yellow line and speeding, and his blood alcohol content reportedly registered at .14 percent.

This was the second time Phelps has been charged for drunk driving. In 2004, he also pleaded guilty to DUI. In that case, authorities waived the conviction due to it being his first-time offense.

Since the most recent incident, Phelps has been attending Alcoholics Anonymous and has also been admitted to a six-week treatment program. He received a six-month suspension from USA Swimming as a result of the incident. Following his plea, he was given 18 months of supervised probation and a suspended sentence of a year.

Individuals charged with DUI may face serious legal and professional repercussions. However, it may be possible for a younger individual to have a conviction waived depending on whether it is a first time offense and other factors. Judges may also weigh factors like remorse and acceptance of responsibility in DUI-related cases.

Because the repercussions of drunk driving charges may be severe, individuals may wish to work with an attorney. He or she may be able to work with the prosecution to lessen the charges or the sentencing. Avoiding some of the more severe penalties such as jail time may be possible under some circumstances.

Source: CBS DC, “No jail time for MIchael Phelps as he pleads guilty to DUI“, December 19, 2014