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DUI Legal Glossary Guide
Use this glossary when court or license paperwork uses unfamiliar terms.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
DUIDriving under the influence.DWIDriving while intoxicated or impaired.OUIOperating under the influence.OWIOperating while impaired or intoxicated.BACBlood alcohol concentration.Per Se DUICharge based on alcohol level rather than observed impairment alone.Implied ConsentLaw tying driving privileges to chemical-test rules.RefusalAlleged refusal to complete a chemical test.Reasonable SuspicionStandard for a brief investigative detention.Probable CauseStandard for arrest or certain searches.Field Sobriety TestRoadside exercise used during a dui investigation.HGNHorizontal gaze nystagmus eye test.Walk And TurnRoadside divided-attention exercise.One Leg StandRoadside balance exercise.BreathalyzerDevice used to estimate alcohol level from breath.Blood DrawBlood sample collected for testing.Chain Of CustodyRecord of who handled evidence.CalibrationProcess for checking a testing device.Observation PeriodPre-test waiting period in many breath-test procedures.Rising BACArgument about alcohol absorption over time.Mouth AlcoholAlcohol in the mouth that may affect breath testing.DREDrug recognition evaluation.ArraignmentFirst court appearance in many criminal cases.DiscoveryExchange of case information.Motion To SuppressRequest to exclude evidence.Plea BargainNegotiated resolution of a criminal case.DiversionProgram that may allow dismissal after completion.Deferred ProsecutionCase delay tied to conditions.ProbationCourt supervision after sentencing.Bench WarrantWarrant often issued after a missed court date.Failure To AppearMissing a required court appearance.Ignition InterlockBreath device connected to vehicle start function.Restricted LicenseLimited driving permission.Hardship LicenseLimited license based on need.SuspensionTemporary loss of driving privilege.RevocationTermination of driving privilege until reinstatement.SR-22Insurance proof filing required in some cases.Administrative HearingLicense-related hearing outside criminal court.Criminal CourtCourt handling the dui charge.EnhancementFact that can increase penalties.Lookback PeriodTime window for counting prior convictions.MisdemeanorLess serious criminal charge category.FelonyMore serious criminal charge category.ExpungementRecord-clearing process when allowed by state law.Record SealingLimiting public access to records.ConvictionFormal finding of guilt.DismissalCase ended without conviction.AcquittalNot-guilty result at trial.SentenceCourt-imposed penalties.FineMoney penalty ordered by court.RestitutionPayment tied to losses or damage.Victim PanelEducation program ordered in some cases.DUI SchoolEducation or treatment program.Chemical TestBreath, blood, or urine testing.Portable Breath TestRoadside breath screening device.ToxicologyScience of alcohol or drug effects and testing.Standard DrinkAlcohol amount used for general education.Miranda RightsWarnings tied to custodial interrogation.Fourth AmendmentConstitutional protection against unreasonable searches.Collateral ConsequencesEffects outside the criminal sentence.Retainer AgreementWritten fee and representation agreement.