Lenoir DWI Lawyer

Lenoir DWI Lawyer & DUI Defense Attorney

If you have recently received DUI charges for drunk driving or driving under the influence of drugs in North Carolina, you may be wondering what your options are. What you choose to do now if you have been accused of driving while intoxicated (DWI) could have a significant impact on your future. While being accused of a criminal violation like DWI is difficult and distressing, there is still a way.

When faced with a DWI charge in North Carolina, many people believe that their only option is to plead guilty. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that pleading guilty to any criminal offense, including DWI, has long-term consequences. Your job, earning prospects, and general quality of life will likely be impacted by a conviction that stays on your permanent record.

Understanding the Difference: DWI vs. DUI

DWI and DUI are often used interchangeably to refer to the crime of operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. However, in some states, including North Carolina, there is a legal distinction between the two terms.

DWI stands for “driving while intoxicated” or “driving while impaired.” It refers to the crime of operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in a manner that impairs your ability to drive safely.

DUI stands for “driving under the influence.” It refers to the crime of operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. In North Carolina, a DUI charge may be filed even if the driver’s ability to operate a vehicle is not impaired.

In both cases, it is illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. However, the specific charges and penalties can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case and the location where the offense occurred.

The Costs Associated With a DWI Case in Lenoir County

The cost of a DWI (driving while intoxicated) case in North Carolina can vary widely depending on a number of factors. These can include the complexity of the case, the attorney’s fees, and any fines, fees, or other penalties that you are required to pay. Some common costs associated with a DWI case in North Carolina include:

• Attorney’s Fees: The cost of hiring a criminal defense attorney to represent you in a DWI case can vary.
• Court Fees: There may be fees associated with filing your case in court, serving legal papers, and appearing in court. These fees can vary depending on the court and the specific circumstances of your case. However, they generally range from $100 to $4,000.
• Fines: If you are convicted of a DWI in North Carolina, you may be required to pay fines. The amount of the fine will depend on the specific circumstances of your case and the judge’s discretion.
• Alcohol Education Classes: You may be required to complete an alcohol education program as part of your sentence. These programs typically have a fee associated with them.
• Ignition Interlock Device: You may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) as part of your sentence. You will be responsible for the cost of the device and any related fees.
• License Reinstatement Fees: If your license is suspended or revoked due to your DWI conviction, you may be required to pay a fee to have your license reinstated.
• Increased Insurance Premiums: Your insurance premiums may increase because of a DWI conviction.

This is not an exhaustive list, and there may be other costs associated with a DWI case in North Carolina.

License Revocation and North Carolina DWI Charges

In Lenoir, North Carolina, it is possible to lose your license because of a DWI (driving while intoxicated) conviction. The specific consequences you may face will depend on the specific circumstances of your case and whether you have any prior DWI convictions. Some potential consequences of a DWI conviction in North Carolina include:

• License Suspension: Your license may be suspended for a period of time if you are convicted of a DWI. The length of the suspension will depend on the specific circumstances of your case and whether you have any prior DWI convictions.
• License Revocation: Your license may be revoked, or permanently taken away, if you are convicted of a DWI. This is more likely if you have multiple DWI convictions.
• Ignition Interlock Device: You may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle as a condition of having your license reinstated after a suspension or revocation. An IID is a device that requires the driver to blow into it to measure their blood alcohol concentration (BAC). It prevents a vehicle from starting if the driver has a certain level of alcohol in their system.
• Restricted License: In some cases, you may be eligible for a restricted license. This allows you to drive for certain purposes, such as to and from work, during certain hours.

It is important to note that these consequences are in addition to any fines, fees, or other penalties that you may be required to pay as a result of a DWI conviction. Hiring a DWI attorney with decades of experience, and a long history of successful outcomes in existing DWI cases, can help you avoid getting your license suspended or revoked.

Getting a DWI Charge Dismissed in Lenoir County, North Carolina

There are a few ways that a DWI (driving while intoxicated) charge might be dismissed in North Carolina. However, it will depend on the specific facts and circumstances of your case. Some potential ways to get a DWI dismissed in NC could include:

• Lack of Probable Cause: If the police did not have probable cause to stop or arrest you, it may be possible to have the charges dismissed.
• Invalid Chemical Test: If the chemical test that was used to determine your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was administered improperly, or the equipment was not properly calibrated, it may be possible to challenge the results.
• Constitutional Violations: If your constitutional rights were violated at any point during your arrest or the subsequent criminal proceedings, it may be possible to have the charges dismissed.
• Insufficient Evidence: If the prosecution does not have sufficient evidence to support a conviction, they may be persuaded to dismiss the charges.

It is important to note that getting a DWI charge dismissed is not easy. To successfully accomplish this, you will need the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney to pursue any of these defenses. A DWI defense attorney can review the facts of your case and advise you on the best course of action.

FAQs

Q: How long does a DWI stay on your record in North Carolina?

A: In North Carolina, a DWI (driving while intoxicated) conviction will remain on your driving record for at least five years. This means that the conviction will be visible to law enforcement, insurance companies, and other parties who have access to your driving record. An expert criminal defense attorney can help you seek the expungement of the charge after that time.

Q: Can a DWI be reduced in North Carolina?

A: It is possible for a DWI (driving while intoxicated) charge to be reduced in North Carolina, but it will depend on the specific facts and circumstances of your case. In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate a plea deal with the prosecution in which the DWI charge is reduced to a lesser charge, such as reckless driving. To pursue a plea deal, you will need to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney.

Q: How much does a lawyer cost for DWI in North Carolina?

A: In North Carolina, the cost of employing a lawyer for a DWI (driving while intoxicated) case can differ greatly based on several variables. These include the intricacy of the case, the attorney’s background and reputation, and the firm’s location. In general, you may expect to pay a criminal defense lawyer in North Carolina $500 to $1,500 or more per hour for their services.

Q: How much are court fees for DWI in North Carolina?

A: The court fees for a DWI (driving while intoxicated) case in North Carolina will depend on the specific court where your case is being heard. Some common court fees that you may be required to pay in a DWI case in North Carolina include:

• Filing fees
• Service fees
• Court appearance fees
• Transcript fees
• Other fees

You should contact the court where your case is being heard to get information on the specific fees that you will be required to pay.

Lenoir County DWI Attorneys Who You Can Trust

Although the situation may seem hopeless to you initially, a defense lawyer from Helton, Cody & Associates, PLLC, can give you exceptional DWI or DUI representation. We can aid you in attempting to get a reduced sentence or get your charges completely dropped. We can get to know the details of your case and inform you of your best options moving forward. If you are facing a DUI or DWI charge and are in need of legal counsel, contact our Lenoir County office today.