Best Drunk Driving Lawyers in United States

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Fontes Law Group Santa Ana
Santa Ana, United States

Founded in 2006
English
Fontes Law Group provides immigration, criminal defense and family law services across Santa Ana and Riverside with a bilingual approach that enhances client communication. The immigration team offers visa, green card, citizenship and deportation defense services, and the firm notes no-fee initial...

Founded in 1976
English
Raybin & Weissman, P.C. is a Nashville law firm that concentrates on personal injury, criminal defense, and social security disability matters. Founded in 1976, the firm has built a track record of helping clients navigate complex legal issues with clear guidance and steadfast advocacy. The...
Stabile Law Firm
Woodbridge, United States

Founded in 1993
10 people in their team
English
Stabile Law Firm is a New Jersey based practice focused on traffic law, DWI and criminal defense matters, handling municipal and criminal cases across New Jersey and New York. The firm emphasizes experienced courtroom representation for matters ranging from speeding and suspended license cases to...
The Santos Law Firm
Houston, United States

English
The Santos Law Firm in Houston stands out for its comprehensive legal expertise in criminal defense, personal injury, and trial law. Led by a dedicated team of seasoned attorneys, the firm consistently delivers effective legal strategies for individuals facing complex challenges in the justice...
Law Office of Diana E. Sims
Houston, United States

English
The Law Office of Diana E. Sims is a Houston-based criminal defense practice led by Diana E. Sims, a seasoned attorney with more than twenty years of experience in Texas criminal law. The firm handles a wide range of offenses, including assault, theft, domestic violence, drug crimes, sex crimes,...
AsiliA Law Firm, P.A.
Miami, United States

Founded in 2018
3 people in their team
English
AsiliA Law Firm, P.A. focuses on criminal defense and civil rights, led by Jeremy McLymont who brings years of experience as a public defender and trial attorney. The firm handles a broad range of criminal charges in Florida, employing rigorous case analysis, strategic motion practice, and...

English
Friedman & Abrahamsen Law is a Tallahassee-based firm that concentrates on DUI and personal injury matters, with a clear focus on Criminal Defense and Accidents & Injuries. The attorneys handle DUI and other criminal charges as well as personal injury claims arising from auto accidents, slip and...
Campbell Law Firm
Memphis, United States

3 people in their team
English
The Campbell Law Firm is a Memphis, Tennessee based full service practice focusing on criminal defense and personal injury. Led by founder Michael R. Campbell, the firm combines extensive trial experience with practical guidance for clients across Tennessee, Mississippi and Alabama. The team...

5 people in their team
English
McGuire, Pelรกez, Bennett & Belcastro, P.C. is a full-service law firm based in Central Islip with an additional office in Riverhead, serving Suffolk County, Long Island. The firm focuses on criminal and traffic defense, personal injury, matrimonial and family court matters, immigration, real...
Carlson Law Group, LLC
Anchorage, United States

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
English
Knowledgeable, cost-effective, community focusedBradly Carlson founded Carlson Law on the belief that everyday people and businesses deserve access to cost-effective, expert legal representation. Your legal challenges do not define you, and Carlson Law can help you find a path forward beyond your...
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About Drunk Driving Law in United States

Drunk driving, also known as driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI), is a significant legal concern in the United States. These laws dictate that an individual is prohibited from operating a motor vehicle if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) exceeds a specified limit, typically 0.08%. Each state enforces DUI laws, including penalties such as fines, license suspension, and potential jail time. Enforcement is stringent, with a focus on reducing alcohol-related accidents and promoting road safety.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Here are common situations where individuals might require legal assistance with DUI charges:

  • If you are facing your first DUI charge and need to understand the potential consequences and defenses available.
  • If you have prior DUI convictions and are facing enhanced penalties.
  • If your DUI case involves additional charges, such as reckless driving or vehicular manslaughter.
  • If you believe your rights were violated during your arrest or the evidence against you is questionable.
  • If you need to negotiate a plea deal or need representation to fight the charge in court.
  • If you are a non-U.S. citizen, as a DUI conviction can affect immigration status.

Local Laws Overview

Drunk driving laws in the United States can vary by state, but there are several common elements:

  • Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC): The legal limit for most drivers is 0.08% BAC. However, commercial drivers typically have a lower limit of 0.04%, and drivers under 21 usually have a zero-tolerance policy.
  • Implied Consent: By obtaining a driver's license, motorists agree to undergo chemical testing if law enforcement suspects DUI. Refusal can lead to automatic license suspension.
  • Penalties: DUIs can result in a variety of penalties, including fines, license suspension/revocation, mandatory alcohol education programs, probation, and in some cases, imprisonment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if Iโ€™m stopped by police on suspicion of DUI?

Remain calm, provide your license, registration, and proof of insurance, and if asked to take a field sobriety test or a preliminary breath test, know your stateโ€™s laws about compliance.

2. Can I refuse a breathalyzer test?

Refusal can result in license suspension due to implied consent laws, and may have other legal consequences depending on state laws.

3. What are the short-term and long-term consequences of a DUI?

Short-term consequences include fines, a temporary license suspension, and potential jail time. Long-term effects could involve increased insurance rates, a criminal record, and potentially affecting employment opportunities.

4. Can a DUI be expunged from my record?

Expungement eligibility varies by state. Some states allow expungement after certain conditions are met, while others do not permit DUI convictions to be expunged.

5. How does a DUI affect my auto insurance?

A DUI typically results in significantly increased insurance premiums, as you are considered a high-risk driver.

6. Can non-alcohol impairment lead to a DUI charge?

Yes, driving under the influence of drugs-whether prescription, over-the-counter, or illegal-can also result in a DUI charge.

7. What defenses are available in a DUI case?

Possible defenses include challenging the legality of the traffic stop, the accuracy of field sobriety tests, and the accuracy/calibration of breathalyzer equipment.

8. What is a plea bargain in a DUI case?

A plea bargain is an agreement between the prosecution and defense where the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge or receives a lighter sentence.

9. Will I lose my license immediately after a DUI arrest?

Your license might be temporarily suspended, but you may be able to contest this through an administrative hearing.

10. Do DUI penalties increase for repeat offenses?

Yes, penalties typically become harsher with subsequent convictions, including longer jail sentences and higher fines.

Additional Resources

Consider reaching out to organizations and resources available for legal advice and support:

  • National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
  • Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL)
  • State-specific Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) websites for local DUI laws
  • Legal aid societies or clinics offering pro bono legal services

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in a DUI matter, consider the following steps:

  1. Contact a Lawyer: Seek out a qualified DUI attorney who can provide personalized legal advice based on your specific situation.
  2. Gather Information: Collect all relevant documents and information regarding your DUI case, including police reports, court documents, and any evidence collected during the arrest.
  3. Attend Consultations: Meet with potential lawyers to discuss your case, their experience, and their approach to defending DUI cases.
  4. Be Proactive: Follow any legal advice given by your attorney and comply with all court requirements and deadlines.
  5. Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with local DUI laws to better understand your rights and responsibilities.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in United States through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Drunk Driving, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.