Orange County DUI – MADD Victim Impact Program

Convicted Orange County DUI drivers typically face traditional court punishment such as jail sentences, fines, and license suspensions.  However, courts are increasingly seeking to address the underlying alcohol issues of drunk drivers in Orange County through sentencing alternatives.  One available alternative is participation in a Victim Impact Program offered by Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD).

Participation in the MADD program is designed to provide the negative consequences that can result from drunk driving.  The MADD Victim Impact Program consists of regular meetings between convicted Orange County DUI offenders and individuals whose lives have been affected by drunk drivers.  Sentencing alternatives such as the MADD Victim Impact Program are designed to help, rather than punish, Orange County DUI offenders. MADD members communicate the impact drunk driving has had on their lives with the goal of educating drunk drivers of the effects of their actions on others.  It is important to consult with a qualified Orange County DUI Defense Lawyer who understands the MADD sentencing requirement and will fight hard to make sure you receive the best possible outcome in your Orange County DUI case.

The meetings are typically organized as panel discussions that feature three or more MADD members telling their stories.  The discussions are often moderated by a police officer.  When time permits, convicted drunk drivers may also share their stories.
Participation in the MADD Victim Impact Program is typically set as a condition of probation.  If the DUI offender fails to participate in the program, probation is violated, and the driver likely will go to jail.

Sentencing alternatives such as the MADD Victim Impact Program can be a viable alternative to a jail sentence for a convicted drunk driver. A qualified Orange County Drunk Driving Lawyer can determine whether sentencing alternatives are available in individual cases.