Raleigh DWI Lawyer - Drunk Driving Defense
Driving under the influence (DWI) is a serious criminal offense in Raleigh, North Carolina. The state’s DWI laws are strict, and the consequences of a conviction can be severe. If you’ve been charged with DWI, it’s essential to understand the laws and potential penalties.
A Raleigh DWI Lawyer can provide you with legal representation, advice, and guidance throughout the legal process. They can help you navigate the complex court system, negotiate with the prosecution, and protect your rights and interests. At the Law Offices of J.M. Kotzker, P.C., we don’t believe a mistake should negatively affect the rest of your life, and our Raleigh DWI Attorneys are dedicated to fighting on your behalf to help you move forward.
Understanding DWI Laws in Raleigh
DWI stands for driving while intoxicated. The state of North Carolina defines DWI as operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of 0.08% or higher. It’s illegal to drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, regardless of your BAC level.
The state of North Carolina has two types of DWI laws: per se laws and impairment laws. Per se laws make it illegal to drive with a BAC level of 0.08% or higher, while impairment laws make it illegal to drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol to the extent that you can’t safely operate a vehicle.
Determining DWI in Raleigh, NC
- Missing a traffic light or sign
- Reckless driving
- Inability to maintain a safe, consistent speed
Consequences of A DWI Charge in North Carolina
If you’re facing DWI charges in Raleigh, you’ll face a range of penalties, including fines, jail time, license suspension, and more. The specific consequences you’ll face will depend on the circumstances of your case, including your BAC level, previous DWI convictions, and any aggravating factors.
Some of the common consequences of a DWI conviction in Raleigh include:
- Fines
- Jail time
- Driver license suspension or revocation
- Community service
- Alcohol and drug treatment programs
- Ignition interlock device (IID) installation
- Increased insurance premiums
- Criminal record
Grossly Aggravating Factor
A grossly aggravating factor in DWI cases makes the charges more severe as they compound the crime and include:
- Driving while intoxicated with a minor or disabled person in the car counts as two grossly aggravating factors;
- A previous DWI or DUI conviction within the past seven years of the current charge;
- Driving while intoxicated with a suspended license due to a previous DWI
- Causing an accident in which another person was seriously injured.
Aggravating Factors
- BAC of 0.15 or above
- Causing an accident that does not result in serious injury;
- Having two or more traffic violations but no DWIs;
- Driving on a suspended license (but not due to DWI);
- Having a DWI conviction more than seven years old;
Mitigating Factors
- BAC of 0.09 or below;
- Impairment was caused by a legally prescribed medication that was taken in the prescribed manner;
- Having a safe driving record;
DUI Drug and DWI Penalties
- Level 1A (Most severe): Three or more grossly aggravating factors; minimum 120 days in jail up to 36 months in jail.
- Level 1: Two grossly aggravating factors; minimum 30 days in jail up to 24 months;
- Level 2: One grossly aggravating factor; minimum 7 days in jail up to 12 months
- Level 3: More aggravating factors than mitigating factors; up to six months in jail and possible community service;
- Level 4: Equal amounts of mitigating and aggravating factors; up to 120 days in jail and possible community service;
- Level 5: More mitigating factors than aggravating factors: up to 60 days in jail and possible community service.
The Consequences of an Underage DWI Conviction
Your Rights at a DWI Stop In North Carolina
- The right to remain silent: You have the right to refuse to answer any questions asked by law enforcement that could incriminate you.
- The right to refuse a breath test: In North Carolina, you have the right to refuse a breath test if you are asked to take one. However, this refusal could result in automatic license suspension.
- The right to an attorney: You have the right to an attorney, and it’s recommended that you exercise this right if you’re arrested for DWI
What to Expect During a DWI Traffic Stop in North Carolina
- The officer will ask for your license and registration: You are required to provide these documents to the officer.
- The officer may ask questions: The officer may ask you questions to determine if you’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- The officer may ask you to perform a field sobriety test: The officer may ask you to perform a field sobriety test to assess your level of impairment.
- The officer may request a breath test: If the officer suspects that you’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they may request that you take a breath test to determine your blood-alcohol level.
Field Sobriety Tests
If you are suspected of driving while intoxicated (DWI), the officer may request to administer a portable breathalyzer test. You can and should consider refusing this and other field sobriety tests as they are often inaccurate and will be used against you in your case. However, the officer may (and most likely will) arrest you for suspicion of DWI, and you’ll be taken to the police station.
At this point, North Carolina General Statute 20-16.2 outlines that driving on state roads falls under “implied consent,” meaning you automatically consent to a blood alcohol test or chemical analysis if you are charged with DWI. Refusal to do this will lead to immediately having your driver’s license revoked for a minimum of one year. However, if you know you have been drinking and may be subject to more severe penalties, it may be beneficial to refuse the test and speak with a DWI lawyer in Raleigh.
How to Stay Safe During a DWI Stop in North Carolina
- Remain calm and polite: Keep a calm demeanor and be polite when speaking to the officer.
- Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights during a DWI stop so you know what to expect.
- Refrain from making incriminating statements: Don’t make any statements that could incriminate you.
- Call an attorney: If you’re arrested for DWI, it’s recommended that you call a lawyer to represent you.
How a Raleigh DWI Lawyer Can Improve Your Outcome
A Raleigh DWI lawyer can provide you with legal representation and guidance throughout the legal process. They can help you understand the laws and consequences of a DWI conviction and develop a defense strategy to minimize the consequences.
Here are some of the ways a lawyer can help:
- Investigate the circumstances of your case
- Challenge the evidence against you
- Negotiate with the prosecution for a plea deal
- Represent you in court
- Protect your rights and interests
- Provide legal advice and guidance
- Explain the legal process and options available to you
- Develop a defense strategy to minimize the consequences
Protect Your Future With An Experienced DWI Attorney
A DWI conviction will follow you for years and can include time in jail, heavy fines, and an inability to find employment or even rent an apartment. You have the Constitutional right to legal representation in your case, and we will fight on your behalf to protect your rights and create a strategy that will lead to the best practical outcome in your case.
Depending on the circumstances, we strive to have charges dropped or reduced, introduce mitigating circumstances, and minimize penalties in order to help you move forward with your life.
At The Law Offices of J.M. Kotzker, P.C., we are committed to providing the best defense to our clients and have successfully represented thousands of clients.
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Dedicated Legal Counsel
Our determined DWI and DUI defense lawyers helped individuals and families with thousands of DWI and DUI cases and assisted countless others with their differing legal needs. Serving clients throughout Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Fayetteville and the rest of NC, we fight aggressively to help those in need. We offer a free consultation and affordable rates to help you pursue the DWI defense you deserve.
Need A DWI Lawyer in Raleigh?
Get a Free Consultation!
If you are facing a North Carolina DWI conviction, it is important to have an experienced DWI attorney on your side. The consequences of a DWI conviction can be severe, including jail time, loss of your driver’s license, and steep fines.
In addition, your insurance rates will likely increase and you may have difficulty finding employment.
With so much at stake, it is essential to have an experienced Raleigh DWI attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Contact our law firm today for a free consultation. We will review your case and help you understand your options. Don’t wait – contact us today!
