Mount Holly DUI / DWI Lawyer

Mount Holly DUI / DWI Attorney

If you are arrested on a DUI / DWI charge, it is important to act quickly. Though no one intends to commit a DUI / DWI offense, sometimes accidents occur. You should have a plan of action for what to do if you are charged with a DUI or DWI.

No matter the circumstances, it is important to know that an arrest is not an indication of guilt. Many people believe that an arrest provides irrefutable evidence against them, but this is far from the truth. There are many ways for a Mount Holly DWI attorney to defend you and clear you of the charges at hand.

The most important thing that you need to do after a DUI / DWI arrest is to call an experienced attorney. We can help you to build your case and avoid the serious consequences that a DUI / DWI can bring.

The Law Firm of Brent D. Ratchford: Your Mount Holly DUI / DWI Lawyers

For many years, our team has been defending individuals from criminal charges of all kinds. Though criminal cases often attract stigma and prejudice, we understand that all perspectives deserve to be heard. Just because you are arrested does not mean that you are guilty of a crime. In fact, it simply means that you need a strong advocate to tell your side of the story to the court. We will listen to your account without judgment or prejudice to ensure that you have the very best chance of winning your case.

Though we are understanding and compassionate with our clients, we are ruthless in the courtroom. We believe that the judicial system does not always take all perspectives into account, which is why we work hard to make sure that your side of the story is clear. We are passionate about justice for all, especially those who have been accused of wrongdoing.

What Are DUI / DWI and DWI?

The acronym DUI / DWI is short for Driving Under the Influence, and DWI means Driving While Intoxicated. Both terms are fairly interchangeable, though DWI implies a higher level of impairment.

An individual can be arrested on DUI / DWI charges if they are found to be operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher. This is the level that the government has determined to be dangerous for a driver. With this concentration of alcohol in their system, a driver:

• Has a slower reaction time
• May lack the motor skills to safely operate a vehicle
• Is likely to miss signs or signals
• May swerve or move dangerously through traffic

If a driver is found to be operating a vehicle with a BAC of .08% or higher, they can be charged with a DUI / DWI.

Consequences of a DUI / DWI or DWI

If you are charged with a DUI or DWI, you should expect to face significant consequences. The law is not lenient in these situations, and even a first-time offense could result in significant punishments. North Carolina organizes their DUI / DWI offenses by level:

Level Five

Level five is the most lenient category and is the least serious. If you are found guilty of a level five DUI / DWI, you may face up to $200 in fines and a jail sentence between 24 hours and 60 days. A judge may suspend or remove the sentence if the circumstances are right.

Level Four

Level Four DUIs may require a fine of up to $500 and a jail sentence of 48 hours-120 days. A judge may remove or suspend the jail sentence if the circumstances warrant it.

Level Three

Level Three requires a fine of up to $1,000. Jail sentences range from 72 hours and a maximum of six months. A judge is still able to suspend the sentence.

Level Two

Level Two DWIs come with a fine of up to $2,000. Jail sentences range from seven days to one year. Unlike other levels, a judge cannot suspend the sentence.

Level One

Level One DUIs are the most serious type of this offense. The fine for Level 1 DUIs is up to $4,000, and jail sentences range from 30 days to 24 months. A judge cannot suspend the minimum jail sentence. If the offense is aggravated, the fine can be up to $10,000, and the jail sentence can range from 12-36 months.

FAQs About Mount Holly, NC DUI / DWI Law

Can a DWI Be Dismissed in North Carolina?

It is possible for a DWI to be dismissed under the correct circumstances. However, not all DWI cases can be dismissed. Dismissal requires an extremely competent and experienced attorney, as well as appropriate circumstances. The goal of a DWI defense lawyer is to get the state to dismiss the charges based on a lack of evidence of guilt.

How Much Is a DUI / DWI Attorney in North Carolina?

DUI / DWI attorneys charge differently depending on their level of experience, the case at hand, and the length of time it takes to build the case. Some attorneys charge a flat rate, but most charge by the hour. Attorneys’ fees depend on how long it takes for your court process to be completed, too. It is essential to speak with your attorney about their fees so that you know what to expect.

What Is the Average Cost of a DWI in NC?

Fines alone can range from $200 to $10,000 depending on the circumstances, with the median price being around $4,000. This is for the court fees and fines alone and does not take into account the price of an attorney, any time you spend off of work to attend court, and the payment necessary to get your license back.

How Do You Win a DWI Case in NC?

Winning a DWI case requires an experienced attorney and proper evidence. Your best course of action is to hire a qualified attorney from The Law Firm of Brent D. Ratchford to represent you in your case. We give you the best possible chance of winning your North Carolina DWI case and avoiding the punishments associated with a conviction.