In addition to any criminal charges for DUI/DWI, a state may assess civil (non-criminal) penalties against a person convicted of DUI/DWI. Civil penalties may include (1) thousands of dollars of fines; (2) suspension of the driver’s license; (3) requirements for additional insurance; (4) completion of alcohol rehabilitation/treatment and DUI/DWI intervention courses; and (5) installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on the driver’s motor vehicle.

The laws regarding civil penalties for DUI/DWI convictions are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal code or criminal code.

In Mississippi, civil penalties for DUI/DWI convictions are indeed separate from criminal charges and can be quite severe. Upon conviction for DUI/DWI, the state can impose various civil penalties. These may include substantial fines that can reach into the thousands of dollars, depending on the number of offenses and the specific circumstances of the case. The driver's license suspension is another common civil penalty, with the duration varying based on whether it is a first or subsequent offense. Mississippi law also requires those convicted of DUI/DWI to obtain SR-22 insurance, which is a form of high-risk auto insurance, for a period of time after their conviction. Additionally, offenders may be required to complete alcohol education programs or DUI/DWI intervention courses. For those with multiple DUI/DWI offenses, the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on their vehicle is mandatory. These civil penalties are designed to deter impaired driving and to promote public safety on the roads. The specific statutes outlining these penalties can be found in the Mississippi Code, particularly within the sections dealing with motor vehicles and traffic regulations.