Drunk driving is considered a serious offense in all states. The DUI statute in the state where the violation occurred will determine the extent of the punishment for a first-time offender. Usually, a first-time offender convicted of the offense is ordered to pay a fine and may be sentenced to a minimum term of imprisonment, the first offense is usually considered a misdemeanor. A suspension of his or her driver’s license will usually occur as well. There are certain “programs” available to first-time offenders, which allow the defendant’s punishment to be decreased under certain circumstances. Further, there are a number of defenses to a charge of drunk driving that an experienced attorney can raise on your behalf. If you cannot afford to hire an attorney, the court will appoint an attorney for you free of charge.