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