When facing criminal charges or navigating legal challenges, knowing your rights and obligations is essential. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about law in Utah, including drug charges, DUIs, domestic violence cases, and more.
The standard fine for a marijuana possession conviction in Provo or Orem is $683, as outlined in the Utah bail schedule. You can usually pay this fine over the probationary period.
A Criminal Diversion Agreement allows charges to be dismissed if you successfully complete probation. This option can help avoid a criminal conviction on your record.
Attorney Jake Gunter has over 15 years of experience exclusively representing individuals—not businesses—in criminal cases. As a trial lawyer, he dedicates his practice to courtroom advocacy, not transactional law like drafting wills.
A conviction for possessing drug paraphernalia, such as a pipe or needle, carries a $683 fine and is a Class B Misdemeanor. These cases are typically heard in Utah Justice Courts.
Domestic violence charges include any offenses listed in Utah Code Ann. 77-36-1. Common examples include assault, harassment, and stalking.
The Utah Child Abuse Registry tracks individuals convicted of child abuse-related offenses. Depending on the conviction, you may need to register for 10 years or life.
Registration periods vary:
When hiring a criminal defense attorney, prioritize the following:
After paying fines and completing probation, you must wait the following times before starting expungement:
A Plea in Abeyance dismisses charges after successfully completing probation. No conviction enters your record, but dismissed charges remain visible in background checks.
Reckless driving convictions in Utah won’t immediately suspend your license. However, they add 80 points to your driving record, and accumulating 200 points may lead to suspension.
Drugged driving, or Metabolite Driving, occurs when someone drives with illegal drugs in their system, even if they are no longer impaired. This offense results in license suspension for 120 days if convicted.
An evidentiary hearing is a court process where parties present evidence under the Utah Rules of Evidence. It resembles a trial but without a jury, and the judge acts as the fact-finder.
Yes, but only under specific circumstances:
For drivers over 21 years old:
Yes. Traffic ticket convictions usually increase insurance premiums upon renewal. Some carriers may even drop coverage if your record is poor.
Yes. The penalty for hiring a prostitute is a Class A Misdemeanor for the first offense. After three offenses, the charge escalates to a Third Degree Felony.
A Rule 402 Reduction Motion allows the court to reduce the severity of a criminal conviction by one or two degrees. This process can make expungement or other remedies easier.
Yes. If you decline a Non-Judicial Adjustment, the case proceeds to screening by a juvenile prosecutor, who may file formal charges.
For a second DUI arrest, the following suspension periods apply:
If you have additional questions about Utah’s criminal laws, attorney Jake Gunter can provide clear answers and expert representation. With over 15 years of experience, he focuses exclusively on defending individuals facing legal challenges in Utah. Call today for a free consultation at (801) 373-6345.
For additional insights on Criminal Defense Law and to get to know Jake Gunter better, check out these helpful videos:
These resources will provide you with valuable information as you consider your legal options. For any questions or to schedule a free consultation, feel free to reach out to us directly.
