Representing Accused Drivers – DUI Attorney Roanoke, Virginia
Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol is a serious crime in the state of Virginia. It’s also aggressively prosecuted.
In fact, the legal limit is 0.08% in Virginia, but drivers that appear to be intoxicated can still face DUI charges even if their BAC is below this limit. If you have been charged with DUI, it’s in your best interest to contact a criminal defense attorney at the Law Office of Seth C. Weston, PLC right away.
Our criminal law attorneys fight to clear your name, protect your freedom, and offer years of experience. Here are some of the most common questions our drunk driving lawyers have received in the past:
- Is DUI A Felony or Misdemeanor in Virginia?
- What Are the Penalties For A DUI Conviction?
- Should I Get A Lawyer For A DUI?
- What Does A Top DUI Lawyer Do?
- How to Choose the Best Drunk Driving Defense Attorney
- How Much Do DUI Lawyers In Virginia Cost?
Is DUI A Felony or Misdemeanor in Virginia?
DUI can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor. In most cases, DUI is charged as a class 1 misdemeanor. However, repeat offenders can face class 6 felony DUI charges for their third conviction. A class 6 felony is the lowest level of felony charges in Virginia, but it still carries severe penalties.
What Are the Penalties For A DUI Conviction?
The penalties for a DUI conviction will vary depending on several factors, including whether the charge is a misdemeanor or felony. A first offense DUI can lead to fines of up to $250 in addition to the revocation of driving privileges for up to one year. If your BAC was above 0.15 at the time of your arrest, you can also face jail time even if it’s your first offense.
The fines and license revocation period increase for second-time DUI offenders. The judge can also sentence second-time offenders to up to one year behind bars. In addition, second-time offenders can face mandatory jail time if their first offense occurred within the last 10 years.
The penalties are even more serious for third-time offenders, who will face class 6 felony charges. Driving privileges may be indefinitely revoked for these offenders, and they may be ordered to pay up to $1,000 in fines as well.
There are also mandatory jail sentences for offenders with three convictions within a ten-year time period. If the three convictions occurred within a five-year window, the defendant can face a mandatory six-month jail sentence. Furthermore, these repeat offenders may be ordered to forfeit any vehicle that they solely own.
If you are convicted of DUI for the fourth time, you will spend time behind bars for your crime. The law states that fourth-time offenders must spend one year in jail as punishment for DUI. This is in addition to fines, license revocation, and other penalties that come along with a DUI conviction.
Should I Get A Lawyer For A First Time DUI?
It’s important to know when to hire an attorney following a DUI arrest. It’s best to get in touch with a lawyer as soon as possible after an arrest so he or she can begin protecting your rights and working towards a resolution.
Do not make the mistake of thinking that you can represent yourself since it’s your first offense. It’s strongly recommended that you hire a lawyer regardless of whether this is your first or fourth DUI charge.
Can I Beat a DUI Case Without a Lawyer?
If you are arrested and charged with driving under the influence, your future’s outlook is entirely in the hands of the prosecutor and the legal justice system. We highly advise you choose the route of working with a legal expert for DUI/DWIs so that you can get the proper representation you deserve.
During the trial, a lawyer will poke holes in the prosecution’s case to show the jury that you are not guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Your attorney’s main priority is reaching the best possible outcome in your case. If you want to reach the best possible outcome, going to court for driving under the influence without a lawyer is not a wise decision.
How to Choose the Best Drunk Driving Defense Lawyer In Roanoke
Many people who are charged with DUI are not sure how to find the right attorney to handle their case. All criminal attorneys are not created equally, so it’s important to do your research before hiring a DUI attorney in Roanoke, VA. Start by asking friends and family members for recommendations.
You also have the option of reaching out to the local bar association for assistance with your search. After compiling a list of names, conduct online research on each DUI lawyer in Roanoke. Make sure to read their reviews to see what other clients have to say about their experiences with each lawyer.
Narrow down your list to no more than five names. Then, schedule consultations with each lawyer before making a decision. Prepare for the consultation, so you don’t forget what questions to ask or what information you need to know.
You will need to find out about the attorney’s experience handling DUI cases, defense strategies, and fees. After meeting with each lawyer, you should have the information you need to make the right decision.
How Much Do DUI Lawyers In Virginia Cost?
Clients are often eager to find out exactly how much it will cost to hire an attorney to defend them against DUI/DWI charges. Unfortunately, the cost of legal representation can vary greatly on a case-by-case basis.
A number of factors affect the total cost of legal services, including the complexity of the case and whether or not it goes to trial. It’s recommended that you ask your lawyer about his or her legal fees in the early stages of your case, so you know what to expect as your case progresses.