Driving under the influence is an offense that can affect multiple areas of a person’s life. Bail, fines, and other related expenses are just a few issues that could make a criminal charge for DUI difficult to handle. If you or a family member was arrested for driving under the influence, you should consult with an experienced Salt Lake City DUI defense lawyer. Criminal defense lawyer Darwin Overson understands how a DUI can derail a person’s life, and he is here to offer you the criminal defense you deserve for your case. Overson & Bugden, is here to explain whether a defendant needs to post bail for a DUI in Salt Lake City.
Utah Requirements for Bail
If you were arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), you may be concerned about whether you will have to pay bail and the amount of money you will need to free yourself from jail. Utah indeed requires defendants accused of DUI to pay bail. However, the amount of bail that must be paid depends on the circumstances of a defendant’s case.
There are a variety of factors that may prevent an individual from being eligible for bail. For example, if a defendant was charged with a capital felony, and there is evidence to support the crime, the defendant will be denied bail. Other circumstances that can prevent a defendant from receiving bail include:
- Violating probation or violating parole by committing a felony and evidence heavily supports the charges
- Committing a felony while free on bail for a previous felony and there is substantial evidence to support the crime
- The court believes that there is a high likelihood of a defendant fleeing if bail is permitted
- There is evidence that the defendant would be a danger to others or the community or that the defendant may attempt to flee from the state
- The defendant was charged with a felony that violated a condition of their release on bail
- There are domestic violence charges against the defendant and evidence the defendant is a danger to the victim they are accused of abusing
The evidence used to deny an individual’s bail can come from a variety of sources. For example, the court may look at the evidence provided when the individual was indicted, or they may use probable cause statements issued by a law enforcement officer.
Forms of Bail Payment
In Utah, bail is set as a single amount for each criminal case or each criminal charge. This means that if an individual is charged with multiple crimes, their bail payments could be aggregated. There are multiple forms of payment accepted when making a bail payment:
- Cash
- Written undertaking with sureties; sureties must be real or personal property holders within the State of Utah
- Written undertaking without the need for sureties (requires agreement by judge or magistrate)
- Credit or debit cards (also requires a decision by a judge or magistrate)
Additionally, the court will not accept payment of bail with a surety unless the surety’s mailing address, phone number, and email address are submitted to the court.
Utah Bail Fines
The amount of money charged for bail will depend on the type and number of crimes that a person is charged with violating. For example, if a defendant is accused of a third degree felony, the amount owed for bail will be $5,000.
The grading for a criminal offense of DUI can vary depending on the circumstances of a defendant’s case. A first-time DUI offender will likely have their offense graded as a class B misdemeanor. In Utah, the bail for a class B misdemeanor is $680.
If a defendant is charged as a three-time offender, the offense will be graded as a class A misdemeanor. The bail amount for a Class A misdemeanor is $1,950. In some cases, bail can be charged as third degree felony, which can make the offense extremely expensive for a defendant.
It is important to note that although an individual can be released from custody after posting bail, there could be a number of conditions to their release. For example, a defendant may have to attend all court hearings to ensure their bail is not revoked. Jumping bail in Utah and attempting to flee can result in other serious charges. If you need more information regarding the bail process in Utah operates, you should consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible.
Work with a Trusted Salt Lake City DUI Defense Attorney Today
If you or a family member was arrested for DUI, contact an experienced Salt Lake City criminal defense attorney. With nearly two decades of legal experience, criminal defense lawyer Darwin Overson recognizes the challenges faced by defendants charged with DUI, and he is here to fight for you. To schedule a free legal consultation to discuss your case, contact Overson & Bugden at (801) 758-2287, or contact us online.
Get Your FREE Consultation
"Tawni was fantastic to work with."
Tawni was fantastic to work with. She was quick to respond, professional, and got the job done. I have worked with others in the past and I am grateful Tawni was available and able to help me when I needed it most.
Google Reviews - April 2025
"I highly recommend Tawni Bugden to anyone in need of reliable and effective legal representation."
Outstanding Legal Support and Professionalism!
I had the pleasure of working with Tawni Bugden for my sons recent case, and I am beyond impressed with the level of dedication, expertise, and professionalism she provided. From the very beginning, Tawni Bugden took the time to thoroughly understand the details of my sons case, offering clear and straightforward advice. She was always responsive to my questions and kept me informed throughout my sons entire process.
What really stood out to me was her ability to break down complex legal concepts into simple terms, making it easy for me to make informed decisions. Tawni's attention to detail, combined with their strategic approach, led to a successful outcome that exceeded my expectations.
I highly recommend Tawni Bugden to anyone in need of reliable and effective legal representation. She will truly go above and beyond for her clients, and I am grateful for everything she did to help my son achieve a positive result!
Google Reviews - April 2025
"I wish him a happy life in and out of work."
Darwin Overson went above and beyond and proved my innocence in trial at a time that I felt all was lost and was an excellent listener. Well worth the money spent. He even helped provide documentation for things after the case was over when I was in a pinch (great client service). I wish him a happy life in and out of work.
Google Reviews - February 2025
"He is worth every Dollar!"
Darwin, exceeded my expectations, I was suspected of serious charges and he did everything in his power to give me an excellent criminal defense, I recommend him without any doubt, his prices are fair he is worth every Dollar! Thanks to Mr. Overson I'm a Free Man🙏🏼
Google Reviews - January 2025
"When you retain this team you are already on the way to making your situation better."
When you are going through all of the stress of what an arrest can bring, The uncertainty alone can destroy you.
Darwin and his team did more the Defend. They provided Hope and took away the feeling of being alone. Even after the trial they continued to monitor our case through probation.
When you retain this team you are already on the way to making your situation better.
Google Reviews - January 2025
"Tawni Bugden, Esq. is an exceedingly dedicated, highly skilled, and articulate criminal defense attorney."
My wife and I reside in the Northeast. We retained Tawni Bugden, Esq. to defend a family member who was receiving mental health treatment in Salt Lake City. We were immediately impressed with Tawni’s broad experience as a defense attorney. The fact that she had previously and successfully defended mentally ill and neurodiverse individuals made her the perfect fit for our circumstances. Tawni is extremely well versed in Utah state and local criminal law. She has worked extensively with state and local law enforcement and prosecution. To say that Tawni was our “eyes and ears” on the ground is an understatement! She provided excellent counsel, timely updates and promptly returned our phone calls, of which there were many given our geographic location. Her responsiveness even extended into her European vacation! Tawni Bugden, Esq. is an exceedingly dedicated, highly skilled, and articulate criminal defense attorney. We are forever grateful for her guidance and support.
Google Reviews - January 2025
"Forever grateful and highly recommend him."
I had the opportunity to see Mr. Overson in action during trial. He is professional, confident, knowledgeable, has a great strategy, communication style, and empathy. I could tell he prepared extensively for the case and did not hold back to defend his client, which resulted in success. Forever grateful and highly recommend him.
Google Reviews - December 2024
"I am blessed to have had her experience and exceptional level of help."
When I was in trouble, and I needed help, i didn't know what to do. Tawni Budgen was who helped me through it. I am blessed to have had her experience and exceptional level of help.
Google Reviews - November 2024
"This Lawyer, Tawni Bugden, is truly a rare gem."
This Lawyer, Tawni Bugden is truly a rare gem. Tawni goes above and beyond for her clients. Tawni is very prompt on calling you back the same day you send her a message, no matter what time her day ended. I would recommend this attorney to my family and friends.
Google Reviews - August 2024
"Let me be the first to tell you, it’s worth every penny!"
Tawni is the best lawyer you could ask for She is very experienced and is extremely resourceful. If you’re hesitant for any reason on whether to choose her to represent you, let me be the first to tell you, it’s worth every penny!
Google Reviews - August 2024
"Thank you so much, Tawni. You are truly a lifesaver."
Tawni is amazing. We were very scared and overwhelmed For our son’s future, And she gave us hope. Telling us to stay positive and be patient. That helped a lot. Going Through things you’ve never gone through Before and not knowing how to handle things, Tawni gives a lot of feedback and is always communicating to make any transition dealing with the legal system easier. She fights hard and ends disputes quickly. Winning this case and being able to tell our son, he’s free, was seriously the best feeling. Thank you so much, Tawni. You are truly a lifesaver.
Google Reviews - May 2024
"Tawni made what could have been a stressful experience seamless and provided me with peace of mind."
I had the pleasure of working with Tawni Bugden to expunge two non-convictions, and I couldn't be happier with the results. Tawni is simply amazing and incredibly talented. Her expertise in the legal field is unmatched, and her dedication to her clients is commendable. She navigated the process with finesse and ensured that my rights were protected every step of the way. Tawni made what could have been a stressful experience seamless and provided me with peace of mind. I highly recommend her services to anyone in need of exceptional legal representation.
Google Reviews - April 2024
"For unparalleled legal representation, Overson & Bugden PLLC is the unequivocal choice."
Overson & Bugden PLLC exemplifies legal excellence. With profound expertise and unwavering dedication, they adeptly navigate complex legal issues. Their commitment to client satisfaction is unmatched, ensuring clear communication and attentive support throughout. Professionalism permeates every interaction, from their knowledgeable attorneys to their meticulous attention to detail. For unparalleled legal representation, Overson & Bugden PLLC is the unequivocal choice.
February 2024
"Having Tawni representing just made everything feel and be more smooth."
We are beyond grateful to have been able to work with attorney Tawni Bugden. Since the first time we spoke over the phone she gave me hope, sense of relief and free judgment!! She always was available to my questions and concerns even at times she had to explain to me more than once. Having a family member in jail and going through the whole process of courts and wanting to do more for them it’s the worst feeling ever, but having Tawni representing just made everything feel and be more smooth and had such a amazing outcome. She was able to get no prison time and even be released before sentencing court. Honestly if I was ever to go through this situation again ( hope I never do) no doubt Tawni will be our attorney!!! They are the Best!!! They know what they are doing and most importantly they don’t give any false hopes and the results they can get.
Google Reviews - February 2024
"I cannot express enough how much Tawni Bugden has changed the direction of my life (and my children's) for the better!"
I cannot express enough how much Tawni Bugden has changed the direction of my life (and my children's) for the better! She was able to get the best possible outcome for me as my legal representation in my criminal matter and I will forever be thankful for all her support! She is a formidable force in the courtroom and she knows her stuff! Thank you Tawni Bugden!
January 2024
“If someone is making allegations against you, you really should talk to Darwin.”
I was charged with domestic violence and the allegations were that I abused my husband. Truth is, my husband was abusive to me. I hired Darwin and we had a trial. During the trial, Darwin was able to show the jury that it was my husband that was abusive and was trying to manipulate the process of our divorce. The jury found me not guilty and after the trial one of the jurors approached me and told me how impressed the jury was with the way Darwin presented the defense. Before the trial, my now soon to be ex-husband tried to convince me to plead guilty. So going to trial was really the first time I was able to stand up to him and not let him manipulate my life anymore. Darwin really helped me with that process and I can’t express how empowering it has been. If someone is making allegations against you, you really should talk to Darwin.
Google Reviews - September 2022
“If you or a loved one is in trouble, Darwin is your guy.”
“I was arrested for DUI. From the very beginning Darwin was very professional and supportive. Throughout the court process I was scared. I kept telling Darwin that wanted to plead guilty just to end it but Darwin encouraged me to stick with it and take the case to trial. The morning of trial, Darwin was able to cross examine the (arresting) officer in such a way as to show the jury that there was reasonable doubt as to the accuracy of the breathalyzer machine. That was important because they were saying my BAC was .182. Darwin walked me through my testimony so that the jury understood what happened from my point of view. I think if he hadn’t been able to help me through my testimony the way he did that the jury wouldn’t have understood and they would have convicted me. The jury deliberated for two hours and then returned a verdict of not guilty.I am really thankful that Darwin was my attorney and that I took his advice to take my case to a jury. If you or a loved one is in trouble, Darwin is your guy.”
Google Reviews - September 2022
“The jury found my husband not guilty and I credit Darwin for making that happen.”
“My husband was charged with a first degree felony sex crime against our granddaughter. Anyone who knew my husband knew he didn’t do it. He was the type to protect children not hurt them. We had been represented by another attorney who just couldn’t get the prosecutor to see that the charges weren’t good. When it came time for trial, that attorney was scared to try the case. We were referred to Darwin and I am so grateful. Trial was a week long and by the end, Darwin had shown the jury how our grandchild had been manipulated by the social workers and her mother to say things that were not true. Darwin was careful and thorough in his investigation and preparation before trial and it really showed in court. The jury found my husband not guilty and I credit Darwin for making that happen.”
Google Reviews - September 2022
“I thank Darwin …had it not been for him, things would have turned out very differently for me and not in a good way.”
“Several years ago, I was having troubles in my marriage. There were lots of arguments and it was clear that we were headed for a separation. One night I was woke up by six West Valley Police officers standing around my bed with flashlights shining in my eyes. It was 3:00 in the morning and they drug me to the police station where they informed me that I was being arrested for engaging in sexual relations with my baby girl. I could not believe it. Over the next several days I lost my job because of these allegations and a protective order issued against me preventing me from seeing my wife and child, and even from going to the house to get my things. My world was turned upside down. I hired Darwin to represent me. He helped me get my job back, over turned the protective order and through his own investigation was able to uncover enough about my wife to convince the prosecutor to drop all charges against me. About six months later my wife was arrested for possessing thousands of dollars of fake checks. I have moved on and remarried. I thank Darwin for helping me through an incredibly difficult part of my life and I think had it not been for him, things would have turned out very differently for me and not in a good way.”
Google Reviews - September 2022
Related Posts
- Utah Police Reviewing New Technology to Make DUI Arrests
- Utah County Jail Visitation Hours and Visitor Rules
- How Long Can You Sit in a Utah Jail Without a Set Court Date?
- Is it Lawful for the Salt Lake City Police to Arrest You without a Warrant?
- Is Marijuana Illegal to Possess in Utah?
- Does Utah Have Hate Crime Laws?