Experienced Warrenton DUI And DWI Attorneys
It can happen to anyone, and when it happens to you, you are scared. You have questions about the future, and the last thing you want is a drunk driving conviction on your record. Whether you live locally or you were traveling on Interstate 66, Route 17, Interstate 81 or Route 29, an experienced attorney can help you protect your rights. At the Warrenton law firm of Mark B. Williams & Associates, PLC, we have provided DUI and drunk driving defenses since 1990.
If you have been arrested for drunk driving in Virginia, contact our Warrenton DUI lawyers at 540-254-0757 or send us an email.
Trusted Virginia Drunk Driving Attorneys Fighting For Your Rights
In recent years, the state of Virginia has enhanced the penalties for drunk driving. Therefore, it is more important than ever to seek the assistance of an experienced attorney to protect your rights if you have been charged with a DUI or DWI. It is even more important if this is not your first DUI or DWI arrest.
Unlike other states, Virginia does not offer programs that will give you a second chance for your DWI. However, the right criminal defense representation can help. Contact the law office of Mark B. Williams & Associates, PLC, to explore all of your legal options.
Fighting DWI Charges
We start every DUI or DWI case by closely examining the procedure. Driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or more is considered driving under the influence in Virginia. In some cases, there are procedural errors that can lead to charges being reduced or dismissed. Our attorneys will ask the following questions:
- Was the stop proper?
- Was the testing done properly?
- Did law enforcement follow protocol and procedure?
- Did the police have reasonable suspicion to make the stop and probable cause to make the arrest?
If there were no procedural errors, we would explore other options for a strong defense. We will work to reduce the drunk driving charges you face and minimize the potential consequences. Negotiating with the prosecution, we will work to reach a settlement that will protect your long-term interests.
What Is Virginia’s Implied Consent Law?
The implied consent law means that if you are operating a motor vehicle on Virginia roads, you automatically agree to take a breath or blood test if a police officer arrests you on suspicion of driving under the influence. This law is designed to help law enforcement determine your BAC.
Under the implied consent law, refusal to take the test can result in immediate penalties, including the suspension of your driver’s license for up to one year for the first refusal. It’s important to understand that this law applies as soon as you are lawfully arrested for a DUI. Also, the law applies to all drivers on Virginia roads, even if they are licensed in and visiting from another state.
What Are The Penalties For A First-Time DUI Offender?
If you are convicted of a first-time drunk driving offense in Virginia, you face several potential penalties. These can include a fine ranging from $250 to $2,500, a driver’s license suspension for one year, mandatory participation in an Alcohol Safety Action Program and up to 12 months in jail.
Additionally, if your BAC was .15% or higher, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle as a condition of regaining or keeping your driving privileges. Jail time may also be imposed, especially if there are aggravating factors, such as a high BAC or an accident.
Are DUI Checkpoints Legal In Virginia?
While DUI checkpoints have long been controversial, they are legal in Virginia. Law enforcement agencies use these checkpoints as a tool to deter and identify impaired drivers. At these checkpoints, officers stop vehicles at specified intervals to check for signs of intoxication.
It is important to note that these checkpoints must adhere to certain legal standards to be considered constitutional. For instance, they must be publicly announced in advance, and the stops must be conducted in a systematic and nondiscriminatory manner. If you are stopped at a checkpoint, you are required to comply with the officer’s instructions.
Skilled Legal Help For Repeat DUI And DWI Offenders In Warrenton
If you have been convicted previously of drunk driving, you will face very steep penalties in the criminal courts of Virginia. In recent years, the state has increased the penalties for driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWI) charges.
A second offense within five or 10 years is extremely serious. If convicted of your second DUI within five years, you will lose your license for three years and face a minimum of 20 days in jail. If convicted of your second DUI within 10 years, you will lose your license for three years and face a minimum of 10 days in jail. A third offense is a felony. This means you cannot afford to put off seeking help from an experienced DUI lawyer. Any delay can make it more difficult to get the result in court that you seek.
Fighting For The Rights Of Repeat Drunk Driving Offenders In Virginia
At the Warrenton law firm of Mark B. Williams & Associates, PLC, we have successfully defended many drivers against drunk driving charges. We can assist you if you are facing the loss of your license, heavy fines or jail time.
We will explore all options in order to build the best procedural or factual defense for your unique situation. Through the use of negotiation, we will try to get a second or third DUI reduced to a first or second. This can make a huge difference in your future and is worth fighting for.
Contact A Skilled Fauquier County Drunk Driving Defense Attorney
If you have been charged with a DWI or DUI in Virginia, you may be facing months in jail and other serious consequences. You want someone to help you minimize the damages. From our Warrenton office, we will help you through the entire process. We accept credit cards. Contact us today by calling 540-254-0757 to set up a free initial consultation regarding your DUI or traffic violation charge.