Criminal Defense
DUI (driving under the influence) or DWI (driving while intoxicated) charges arise when a driver is accused of operating a vehicle impaired by alcohol or drugs, often based on a blood alcohol concentration at or above the legal limit of 0.08 percent, though the exact terms and thresholds vary by state. A conviction can bring jail time, fines, probation, mandatory education programs, ignition interlock requirements, and driver's license suspension through a separate administrative process. Because these are two tracks, the criminal case and the DMV license action, deadlines to challenge a suspension can be very short, sometimes only days. A defense lawyer can review the traffic stop for a lawful basis, challenge the reliability of field sobriety and breath or blood tests, question calibration and procedure, negotiate reduced charges, and represent you at the DMV hearing and in court. Repeat offenses and cases involving injury are treated far more seriously and may become felonies. First steps: write down everything you remember about the stop, request any DMV hearing immediately to protect your license, do not discuss the case with anyone but your lawyer, and consult a DUI defense attorney in your state promptly given the short deadlines and state-specific rules.
