Driving While Impaired

While a drunk driving charge can be a frightening event, DWI/DUI penalties for a conviction can be serious and further damage people's lives. From jail time and heavy fines to a revoked license and other consequences, experienced criminal defense representation is a must. Your job, reputation, freedom, and driving privileges may at risk.

We understand the complexities of the criminal justice system and how overwhelming it can be to a person dealing with it for the first time. Our DWI defense lawyers offer their extensive experience defending clients and helping them understand their rights in courthouses throughout Wake and surrounding counties.

Put our knowledge of DWI/DUI charges, and how we can help you avoid them, on your side. Contact us today for an immediate assessment of the charges against you.

 

DWI Penalties in North Carolina

North Carolina has some of the country's toughest laws related to driving while impaired (DWI).  There is a per se charge based on a .08 percent or higher blood alcohol content (BAC), and a traditional DWI charge involving appreciable impairment related to physical appearance, driving habits and field sobriety testing.

The law defines five levels of driving offenses, with the most serious penalties at level one and the least serious at level five:

            Level 1: 30 days to two years in jail, up to $4,000 in fines
            Level 2: seven days to one year in jail, up to $2,000 in fines
            Level 3: three days to six months in jail, up to $1,000 in fines
            Level 4: two to 120 days in jail, up to $500 in fines
            Level 5: one to 60 days in jail, up to $200 in fines

Factors such as prior convictions, injuries, presence of minors under 16 years old, and driving on a revoked license also influence the offense level of DWI. Other DWI penalties include an administrative suspension or revocation of your license for up to a year, DWI school attendance, a substance abuse evaluation and court ordered treatment. Enhanced penalties for repeat offenders can include vehicle seizure.

Our DWI lawyers use proven defense strategies to challenge every step of your arrest from the initial stop to breathalyzer testing. We work to help reduce or dismiss the charges against you with aggressive negotiation or we can take the matter to court when necessary.  In the event we are unsuccessful in defending you in district court, we are capable and prepared to handle the appeal of your case to Superior Court and argue your case in front of a jury.

Our criminal defense and traffic violations lawyers are here to defend your rights and ensure you have an effective voice in court. Contact us discuss the details of your drunk driving situation. Evening appointments can be scheduled and we promptly return after-hours calls.

Representing clients in Driving While Impaired (DWI) cases throughout North Carolina in cities including Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, Hillsborough, Garner, Morrisville, Knightdale, Apex, Wake Forest, Smithfield, Louisburg, Oxford

Wake County, Durham County, Granville County, Franklin County, Nash County, Johnston County, Harnett County, Chatham County, and Orange County.