Case Type: Repeat Driving Under the Influence

Result: Fine (No Suspended Prison Sentence)

Case Detail:

Suhn Law Group’s Criminal Defense Team successfully secured a fine rather than a suspended prison sentence in a repeat DUI case through effective sentencing advocacy, achieving the best possible outcome for the client.

The client had previously been convicted of DUI and fined. After being caught driving under the influence again, the client became subject to the enhanced penalties under the Korean Road Traffic Act applicable to repeat offenders. Under the current, stricter sentencing guidelines, repeat DUI offenses are generally regarded as serious crimes, and courts commonly impose suspended prison sentences. Given the client’s prior conviction and the applicable statutory penalties, the client faced a significant risk of severe punishment.

From the early stages of the case, Suhn Law Group’s Criminal Defense Team (Lead Attorney: May H. Kim) worked closely with the client to thoroughly understand the circumstances surrounding the offense. While the client sincerely acknowledged responsibility, the defense focused on demonstrating genuine remorse and substantial efforts to prevent reoffending through objective evidence.

The defense submitted comprehensive sentencing materials, including:

• Completion of a DUI prevention education program;
• A concrete commitment to preventing future offenses;
• Evidence of stable employment and responsible social activities; and
• Various materials demonstrating sincere reflection and remorse.

These mitigating factors were systematically organized and presented to the court through a detailed sentencing memorandum to ensure that every favorable circumstance would be fully considered. In particular, the defense carefully explained the exceptional circumstances that led to the client’s decision to drive and the reasons the offense occurred, appealing to the court’s sense of fairness and justice.

The lead attorney, May H. Kim, currently serves as a Traffic Accident Review Committee Member of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, bringing extensive experience and expertise in traffic-related criminal cases.

The court accepted the defense’s sentencing arguments and, despite the client being a repeat DUI offender, imposed a fine instead of a suspended prison sentence.

Penalties for DUI become significantly more severe with repeated offenses, and repeat offenders face a substantially higher risk of imprisonment or suspended prison sentences. Therefore, it is crucial to prepare objective mitigating evidence and develop a strategic defense from the earliest stage of the proceedings.

Suhn Law Group remains committed to protecting the rights and interests of its clients through extensive criminal defense experience, strategic advocacy, and dedicated legal representation.

Case Inquiry: May H. Kim