Just because they are famous doesn't mean they are exempt from the law. Celebrity DUIs may make the headlines, but they still can cause the same amount of trouble. Failing to follow the rules of the road could result in long term penalties that could affect a career – whether it's on television or not.

Celebrity DUIs in 2011-2012

If you've had a few beers, a couple cocktails too many, or decided to finish off the bottle of wine, driving shortly thereafter is not an option. When you have imbibed too much alcohol (for women that's approximately 2 drinks, for men 4) getting behind the wheel is more than a bad idea, it could cost your freedom and driving privileges.

Don't just take my word for it, read how some celebrities tossed too many back this past year and ended up with criminal charges.

Ben Wallace – Detroit Piston's player Wallace was arrested in September at 3 a.m. after police noticed his Cadillac Escalade weaving in and out of lanes, Ben Wallace faces a DUI and gun possession charges. He blew almost twice the legal limit at 0.14 and pled guilty to charges. In addition to fines, he faced 93 days in jail.

Kurt Angle – 1996 Olympic wrestling champion, and WWE star Kurt Angle was driving erratically when Virginia State Troopers pulled him over last year for suspicion of drunk driving. He was arrested and given a blood alcohol content test at the police station. Charges were later reduced to a misdemeanor charge of reckless driving as his BAC level was at a .06, two points under the legal limit. Reckless driving conviction can result in up to 12 months in jail.

Jaime Pressly – Shortly after the New Year, Pressly, most popular as the actress in “My Name is Earl,” was arrested in Santa Monica shortly before midnight. Police reported that she blew a 0.22 – nearly three times the legal limit. She was forced to spend the night in jail, and was sentenced to three years of probation.

Samantha Ronson – Mostly known as being Lindsay Lohan's ex-girlfriend, Ronson was pulled over last summer around 10 a.m. after driving too fast down the highway outside of Baker, CA. Another celebrity DUI for the books – Ronson failed sobriety field tests and was arrested for a DUI. First convictions in California could result in a maximum of 6 months in jail along with hefty fines.

Penalties of DUI Conviction

It's not just a slap on the hand and a night in jail. These famous DUI stories prove that drinking and driving can cause serious financial damage. Additionally a suspended or revoked license, probation or time spent in jail, and a permanent criminal record can make your future life difficult.

Everyone is impacted when you are convicted of a DUI. Celebrities with DUIs and other criminal charges on their record may struggle to advance in their career. You don't need to be a celebrity to see how a DUI conviction could ruin your plans for your life and career.

How a DUI Attorney Can Make a Difference

Ryan Russman is a dedicated and skilled DUI attorney. His experience in DUI law and criminal law in New Hampshire make him an ideal choice for legal representation. He has assisted hundreds of clients in getting DUI charges reduced or dropped. If you walk into court without the right help, you could face years of penalties. Attorney Russman will protect you from that. Call him right away for the best DUI help in New Hampshire.