CHARLOTTE DWI ATTORNEYS

Arrested for DWI in Mecklenburg County, NC?

The DWI/DUI laws in North Carolina are tough on offenders, so you should fight these charges aggressively in order to protect your rights and privileges. Did you refuse a breath test? Were you arrested for an underage DUI? Whatever the case may be, we leave no stone unturned in pursuing the best available outcomes* for our clients by employing aggressive strategies that involve a wide variety of defense tactics.

Charlotte DUI Defense Strategies

If you were arrested for driving while intoxicated, it may be the most frightening experience you have ever faced. In the blink of an eye, your life can change as you begin to contemplate the potential consequences, such as the loss of your license, fines, jail time, and having a criminal record. After an arrest, it would be in your best interest to reach out to a Charlotte DWI attorney who will fight to protect your rights.

Even if you think you are guilty, it’s important to have a lawyer evaluate your case. There is always something an attorney can do to improve your situation.* For example, if the police made mistakes during the DUI stop or when administering a Breathalyzer test, the evidence may be suppressed and the charges dismissed. If any part of the state’s case is weak, the prosecutor may be willing to accept a favorable plea bargain.

Understanding North Carolina DWI Laws

The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in North Carolina is 0.08 percent. Therefore, if a driver has a BAC of 0.08 percent or higher, they are considered to be driving while impaired. However, the BAC limit for commercial drivers is 0.04 percent, while underage motorists can be charged with DWI for having any amount of alcohol in their system.

Penalties for a First-Time DWI Offense in NC

North Carolina laws are extremely harsh on drunk drivers, even for first-time offenders. If you have been arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI), you should not assume that the legal system will go easy on you simply because you have never been in legal trouble before.

If you are convicted of a first DWI offense, you will lose your driver’s license for a minimum of one year. In most situations, you can apply for a limited-use license that will allow you to drive to and from work. However, for the next three years, you will need to buy high-risk auto insurance, known as SR-22.

You will also be required to undergo an alcohol assessment program, complete recommended classes, pay a significant fine, and serve at least one day in jail or perform at least 24 hours of community service.

Consequences of Multiple DWI Convictions in NC

If you are arrested for driving under the influence in North Carolina and you have one or more prior convictions, it’s important to put your case in the hands of an experienced defense attorney as soon as possible. The consequences of multiple DWI convictions in North Carolina are extremely harsh.

• Second offense DUI/DWI: If you have a prior DUI/DWI conviction within three years of your current offense, you face a mandatory driver’s license revocation for four years.
• Third offense DUI/DWI: If you have two prior DUI/DWI convictions and at least one of these occurred within the past five years, you face a permanent driver’s license revocation.
• Fourth offense DUI/DWI: If you have three prior DUI/DWI convictions and at least one of these occurred within the past seven years, you could face felony charges and the permanently loss of your license.

If you are convicted of DWI while your driver’s license is revoked for an earlier conviction, the court may seize your vehicle and sell it. Because North Carolina DWI laws are so tough on repeat offenders, it is important to do everything you can to avoid a first conviction. Call Jetton & Meredith, PLLC for the help you need.

Get Help with Your Charlotte DWI Charges

At Jetton & Meredith, our attorneys understand that one mistake does not define who you are as a member of the community. However, we know that one alcohol-related incident can damage your reputation and leave you with a criminal record and the complications that come with it. We have the skills and knowledge necessary to fight for a positive outcome* from a first offense DUI or even a second or third offense.

Our law office is located in Uptown Charlotte near the Mecklenburg County courthouse. We represent clients throughout all surrounding areas, including South Charlotte, Blakeney, Ballantyne, South End, Dilworth, North Davidson, Myers Park, Pineville, Matthews, Lake Norman, Davidson, Cornelius, Huntersville, and beyond.

Commonly Asked Questions