DWI Defense Law Firm in Long Beach Island

Although DWI is a traffic offense, it comes with significant penalties which can affect every aspect of your life, from your job to your relationships. In addition to substantial fines and loss of driving privileges, a first-time DWI conviction may result in jail time. If you are facing a DWI charge, you need a lawyer with DWI knowledge working for you. A charge of DWI does not necessarily mean that you will be found guilty. 

 

Long Beach Island DUI Lawyer

A DWI conviction will, at the minimum, be costly, and may include jail time. 

The consequences for a first offense DWI conviction will vary according to your blood alcohol level (BAC). The consequences for DWI with a BAC of .08% -.09% include fines ranging from $250-$ 400, suspension of your driver’s license for as much as three months, up to 30 days in jail, and a possible Ignition Interlock on your car for six months to one year after your driving privileges are restored. 

A DWI conviction with a BAC of 1.0% or higher will mean increased fees and a longer suspension of your driver’s license. Ignition Interlock will be compulsory for at least six months if the BAC was 0.15%or higher. 

All DWI convictions, regardless of BAC, involve 12 hours of drunk driving classes and a $1,000 insurance surcharge every year for three years. 

Additional convictions will involve compulsory jail time, as much as ten years’ suspension of driving privileges and greater fines and costs. 

Conviction of a DWI offense will cause you to lose your job in many cases. 

Driving under the influence of recreational or prescribed drugs may also lead to a DWI conviction. Proving that someone is under the influence of drugs often includes “expert” testimony. The federal government has developed a classification system for law enforcement officers to recognize indicators and behaviors of suspects in custody to establish if they are intoxicated of drugs. When an “expert” witness uses this information to testify in a DWI case, it is important to have an experienced lawyer who knows how to respond properly. 

 

DWI Defense Attorney Near Me

If you have been arrested for DWI, it is crucial to contact a lawyer immediately. DWI cases are different from other criminal cases, and you need a lawyer who is familiar with DWI laws. A lawyer will have the opportunity to learn what evidence was used to charge you with DWI and will have the ability to ascertain whether the evidence was obtained lawfully, how to object to certain evidence, and how to identify defects in the evidence that may result in an acquittal. Even when you are initially charged with DWI, there might be a chance to reduce the charges. Lawyer Tim Wintrode has many years’ prior experience as a prosecutor and defender of DWI cases and understands the law from both sides. Call the office of Pepe & Wintrode today at (609) 294-8300 for a free consultation.