If you are charged with a BUI in NC it can seriously harm your record. Unlike DWI it may not result in having your driver’s license suspended, but it can result in expensive fines and a criminal record. If you are convicted of a BUI in NC it is considered to be a Class 2 Misdemeanor according to N.C.G.S.A. § 75A 10. I have laid out below what someone who is convicted may expect if convicted in NC.
Class 2 Misdemeanor: Since a BUI is a Class 2 Misdemeanor in NC the punishment will vary depending on what level it falls under. The punishment may vary from community punishment which is generally community service, unsupervised probation, or fines; Intermediate punishment which is supervised probation; and Active punishment which is serving jail time.
Level 1: No prior criminal convictions on record; Involves community punishment of 1-30 days
Level 2: 1-4 prior criminal convictions; May result in community punishment of 1-45 days and intermediate punishment
Level 3: 5 or more criminal convictions; May result in community punishment of 1-60 days, intermediate punishment, and also active punishment
