Canyon County DUI: What Happens Next (Idaho Guide by a Local Defense Attorney)

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Canyon County, Idaho?

Local guide for drivers in Caldwell, Nampa, Middleton, Parma, Wilder, Melba, and Greenleaf.

If you or someone you love was recently arrested for DUI in Canyon County, you’re facing two fast-moving tracks: a criminal case in court and an administrative license suspension through ITD. This guide explains both— and how a local defense attorney can protect your license and your record.

Need help now? Start here: Canyon County Criminal Defense Law Firm.

---

Idaho Runs Two Cases at Once

• Criminal Case (Magistrate Court, Caldwell): Determines guilt, fines, jail, probation, court-ordered suspension, treatment, and ignition interlock if convicted.
• ALS (Administrative License Suspension) via ITD: A civil, automatic suspension that can begin after a failed or refused test, independent of what happens in court. Thats normally handled through the DMV if it is a non-refusal. This must be requested within 7 days of your arrest through the DMV. 

Immediate Timeline After a Canyon County DUI Arrest

1. Arrest & Testing: A BAC of 0.08%+ or a refusal triggers fast ALS action.
2. ALS Hearing: You must request a hearing with the DMV within 7 days to contest any license suspension. You must notify the DMV if you have a CDL license. You may drive for the first 30 days after your arrest.  
3. ALS Clock Starts: For a failed test and a failure to show why your license should be suspended, expect a 90-day suspension (first 30 days are “absolute” no-driving). Refusals usually carry a longer civil suspension.
4. Arraignment in Caldwell: Your first court date comes quickly. Don’t miss it. You should be saving up money to hire a lawyer since DUI's have employment, schooling, immigration, and criminal consequences. If you hire an attorney a not guilty plea will be entered and you can find out courtdate on the Icourt/portal.
5. Call a Lawyer Early: Early intervention preserves dash/body cam footage, surveillance camera footage,  challenges procedures, and helps you meet strict legal deadlines in your case.

For a fast case review with a Canyon County DUI lawyer, reach out as soon as you receive notice of suspension.

Idaho DUI Penalties at a Glance

• First DUI (misdemeanor): Possible jail, fines, treatment, Sheriffs Inmate Labor Detail or community service, court-ordered suspension, and ignition interlock in many cases.
• High BAC (≥0.20): Enhanced penalties above a standard first offense.
• Second DUI (within 10 years): Steeper jail ranges, higher fines, likely probation, Sheriffs Inmate Labor Detail, 1-year license suspension, and 1-year interlock.
• Felony/Third DUI: Steep fines, potentially prison or a RIDER, if the judge feels appropriate probation, must longer drivers liscense suspension and interlock. 
• Under-21 (“not a drop”): Unique penalties, including suspension with an absolute no-driving period.

Practical Tips for Caldwell & Nampa Drivers

• Save every document: Citation, temporary permit, tow/impound sheet, release paperwork.
• Write your timeline: Where you were, what you ate/drank, medications, medical issues, and possible witnesses.
• Plan transportation: Expect a no-driving period if ALS kicks in, arrange carpools or rideshare.
• Check your calendar twice: Court and ALS deadlines move fast. Missing one makes things worse.

Have questions about your exact situation? Speak with a Caldwell criminal defense attorney who understands local courts and procedures.

Defenses We Commonly Evaluate in Canyon County DUI Cases

1. Traffic Stop & Detention: Was there reasonable suspicion to stop, and lawful grounds to extend the stop?
2. Field Sobriety Tests: Were instructions, timing, and demonstrations correct, and captured on video?
3. Breath/Blood Testing: Instrument maintenance, 15-minute observation, certifications, and chain of custody.
4. Body Camera: We watch the body camera footage to verify the officers findings and the circumstances of the case.
5. Miranda & Statements: Were you properly advised before custodial questioning?
6. ALS Challenges: Notice, service, procedural compliance, and eligibility for restricted privileges/interlock.

Idaho DUI FAQ (Quick Answers)

How soon does the ALS start?

After a failed test, a 90-day suspension typically begins 30 days from the test date. The first 30 days are no driving. Refusals usually carry longer suspensions.

Will I need an ignition interlock?

Often, yes. Courts can order an interlock device for set periods depending on the offense. Ask your attorney about timing, waivers, and any hardship assistance.

Do I need SR-22 to reinstate my license?

Many DUI-related suspensions require SR-22 before ITD reinstates your driving privileges. Your carrier files it electronically; premiums can be higher during that period.

Talk to a Local Idaho DUI Lawyer

Get a clear plan before deadlines hit. Request a free, confidential consultation with a Nampa DUI attorney serving all of Canyon County.

Visit the firm: Travis Rice Attorney at Law

---

Educational content only; not legal advice. If you have a pending case, consult counsel immediately.