DWI Charges in NC Are Serious Stuff. If You’ve Been Arrested, It’s Normal to Have Questions.
After an arrest for driving while impaired (DWI), it’s important to know your legal rights and what steps to take next.
Many people mistakenly believe that they have to plead guilty and accept the consequences, but this is not always the case.
You may be able to fight the charges against you with the help of a DUI lawyer.
In this blog post, we will discuss when you should hire a DWI lawyer and what they can do for you.
How an Experienced Dui Lawyer Can Help
DWI lawyers are familiar with North Carolina’s DWI laws and have the experience to help you navigate the legal system.
They can investigate the circumstances of your arrest and look for any possible defenses.
If there are grounds for dismissal, reduction of charges, or plea bargain, your lawyer will work to protect your constitutional rights – Daniel Talbert, Rutherford DWI Defense Lawyer
A DWI lawyer can also negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf and represent you at trial if necessary.
Do You Have to Hire a Lawyer?
No, you are not required to hire a lawyer if you have a DUI case. In fact, you can serve as your own lawyer.
You can represent yourself in court, but legal counsel is recommended.
DWI cases can be complex. We believe it is in your best interest to have an experienced legal advocate on your side.
Ideally, hire an attorney (a DUI lawyer with substantial experience handling such matters) as soon as possible after being charged with DWI.
This will give the law firm the most time to build a defense for your case. Legal representation takes time and preparation.
DUI attorneys like to review the charging officer notes, affidavit, if any, and dash cam (BWC Body Worn Camera) video when possible.
If you wait too long to hire a lawyer, it may be more difficult to mount an effective defense. It takes to prepare and file Motions to Suppress and Motions to Dismiss.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire an Attorney?
The cost of hiring a lawyer will vary depending on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s experience.
Make sure you ask about all potential costs before hiring a lawyer.
What if I Can’t Afford a Lawyer?
If you cannot afford to hire a private attorney, you may be eligible for public defender services or “appointed counsel” for criminal law charges.
To qualify, you must meet certain income requirements and have been charged with a crime that carries a possible jail sentence in criminal court.
When facing DWI charges in North Carolina, we think it is in your best interest to hire a DWI lawyer.
We can investigate the circumstances of your arrest, look for possible defenses, and negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf.
Do not hesitate to contact an experienced DWI lawyer today: (704) 396-5155
What Happens if You’re Convicted?
A DWI conviction can result in jail time (depending on the fact pattern of your case), probation, a driver’s license suspension, and mandatory alcohol education classes. Each case is different.
Under the NC DWI Laws you may also be required to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle in certain circumstances, especially if you have a BAC of .15 or higher (breath test or blood result).
A DWI lawyer can help you understand the possible consequences of a conviction and work towards a positive outcome. Obviously, each client and each case is different.
It’s important to study the facts, asking questions such as:
- Was there Reasonable Suspicion or Probable Cause?
- Did the charging officer comply with the NC Administrative Code?
- Are there legal grounds to challenge the arrest?
- Is there Reasonable Doubt?
Driving While License Revoked – Impaired Revocation
If you have been charged with DWI in North Carolina, don’t wait to call an experienced DWI lawyer.
Is DWI a Misdemeanor?
In North Carolina, DWI is typically charged as a misdemeanor. Even so, it’s a serious crime.
However, a DUI arrest can be charged as a felony by law enforcement officials in certain circumstances, such as if someone is killed as a result of impaired driving or if someone is seriously injured in an accident.
North Carolina also recognizes something called Habitual Impaired Driving.
A DWI lawyer will be able to tell you what charges you are facing and help you understand the possible consequences of a conviction.
No matter what charges you are facing, we believe it to be in your best interest to hire a lawyer or ask for the appointment of counsel or public defender – Daniel Talbert
A legal professional can investigate the circumstances of your arrest, look for possible defenses, and negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf. Contact a DWI lawyer today at Teddy, Meekings, and Talbert to get started on your defense.
Can I Get a Free Consultation?
Yes, most DWI lawyers offer free consultations.
This is a chance for you to explain your case and for the lawyer to determine if they are able to help you.
What’s the difference between Revocation or Suspension?
Make sure you ask about all potential costs of criminal court including court costs, fines, and legal fees for a private lawyer.
When facing DWI charges in North Carolina, don’t wait to call an experienced DWI lawyer.
Our law firm can help you navigate the complex legal system.
Is Drunk Driving the Same as DUI or DWI?
Impaired driving in NC is not necessarily drunk driving.
Appreciable impairment is the legal standard. You don’t have to be “drunk.”
While some people may refer to DUI charges as a “drunk driving charge,” the NC DWI laws refer to it as Impaired Driving.
DUI often stands for “driving under the influence” and refers to operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Some people refer to DWI as “driving while intoxicated.”
Whatever you prefer to call it, N.C.G.S. 20-138.1 applies to drivers with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher and to those who are ‘appreciably impaired’ – David Teddy
Everyone understands a drunk driving conviction carries consequences. That’s especially true for repeat offenders.
It doesn’t matter what you call it, whether that be DUI or DWI or drunk driving. If you call our office, we’re here to help.
If you are facing charges, it is important to consult with an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible.
What Happens if I Refused to Take a Breathalyzer Test?
If you refuse to take a breathalyzer test in North Carolina, that can result in your driver’s license being suspended.
Most DUI lawyers refer to that as a Willful Refusal. Knowing what to do and dealing with DMV if you refuse to blow can be challenging – David Teddy
Upon restoration, NCDMV (North Carolina Department of Transportation / Division of Motor Vehicles) can require motorists to install an ignition interlock device on the vehicle when and if you become available.
A DWI lawyer can help you understand local practices, the possible consequences of a refusal, and work for a favorable outcome for your case.
If you have been charged with DWI in North Carolina, don’t wait to call an experienced DUI attorney.
What Are Some Common Defenses Against DWI Charges?
Some common defenses against DWI charges include challenging the stop, questioning the accuracy of the breathalyzer test, and proving that you were not actually legally impaired at the time of the arrest.
That may necessitate filing a Motion to Suppress and/or a Motion to Dismiss. Given each fact pattern is different, it makes sense to talk with an experienced DUI lawyer about your charges.
An experienced DWI lawyer will be familiar with these and other possible defenses and can help you build a defense for your case.
DWI Charges in Shelby and Rutherfordton NC
If you have been charged with DWI in Shelby or Rutherfordton, NC, you need an experienced DWI lawyer on your side.
At Teddy, Meekins, and Talbert, we have decades of experience handling DWI cases in North Carolina.
We will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your arrest and look for possible defenses. Many DWI charges are accompanied by related charges like speeding, reckless driving, and drug charges.
When appropriate, a plea deal may an option for DUI charges. An experienced lawyer can help explain things like the legal limit, plea bargaining, and driving privileges.
With a DUI conviction, you can end up with your license suspended, even for first-time offenders.
Mr. Talbert focuses his practice on trial litigation (both criminal defense and family law). His service to the legal community has been once again his service to the community reflects his dedication to helping others and a desire to make the profession the noble and honorable one it was designed to be.
