Best DUI & DWI Lawyers in Bulgaria

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District Court - Pernik
Pernik, Bulgaria

Founded in 1959
English
District Court - Pernik serves as a key judicial institution in the region, offering comprehensive legal services and adjudicating a wide range of cases under the jurisdiction of the Bulgarian district courts. The firm is recognized for its proficiency in managing both civil and criminal...
Progressive lawyers
Sofia, Bulgaria

English
Progressive Lawyers is a full-service law firm dedicated to providing high-quality, ethically sound, and strategic legal advice tailored to each client's unique needs. The firm offers a comprehensive range of services, including corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, labor law, real estate and...

Founded in 2010
English
Green Light Business Consult, established in 2010, is a distinguished law firm based in Sofia, Bulgaria, specializing in migration law, investment services, and comprehensive business support. The firm's team comprises seasoned attorneys and legal experts proficient in Bulgarian and EU legislation,...
Law office "Balabanova"
Plovdiv, Bulgaria

3 people in their team
English
Law Office Balabanova advises companies and individuals across Bulgaria from its base in Plovdiv, with matters also handled in Sofia. The practice is led by attorney Dr. Margarita Balabanova, a commercial law scholar and practitioner whose work spans corporate governance, trademarks, insurance and...
Sevlievo, Bulgaria

Founded in 2011
2 people in their team
English
Еdnoлично адвокатско дружество "Георгиев" operates from offices in Sofia, Sevlievo and Varna and maintains partner relationships across Bulgaria to provide legal and accounting services to companies, individual entrepreneurs, foreign and domestic enterprises, and...

Founded in 2013
English
Kovachev & Co Law Firm is a Bulgarian law firm with offices in Burgas, Sofia and Tsarevo, led by Lachezar Kovachev, Attorney-at-Law and Managing Partner. The firm is known for delivering top-tier legal and counseling services to Bulgarian and international clients across civil, trade,...

1 person in their team
English
Attorney Foni Stefanov is a Bulgarian attorney based in Sofia with experience in both public and private sectors. Before entering private practice he served as legal counsel in the office of a private enforcement officer and has provided legal consulting to a range of organizations and...
Advokat Mihail Ekimdjiev
Plovdiv, Bulgaria

7 people in their team
English
Advokat Mihail Ekimdjiev - Ekimdjiev and Partners is a Bulgarian law firm known for strategic litigation in public interest and for defending fundamental rights at national and international fora. The firm concentrates on representation before the European Court of Human Rights and on cases...
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About DUI & DWI Law in Bulgaria

Driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWI) are serious offenses in Bulgaria. The country implements strict regulations aimed at maintaining road safety and reducing accidents related to alcohol consumption. Bulgarian law sets a zero tolerance for driving under the influence of drugs and a low permissible blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for drivers. Understanding these laws is crucial for maintaining a clean driving record and avoiding severe penalties.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Individuals charged with DUI or DWI in Bulgaria may face severe legal consequences that can impact their personal and professional lives. Common situations where legal assistance may be necessary include:

  • Being arrested for a DUI/DWI offense and facing potential jail time or fines.
  • Having a high BAC level that significantly exceeds the legal limit.
  • Repeat offenses that carry heavier penalties, including longer license suspensions and higher fines.
  • Complications arising from the violation, such as accidents or injuries.
  • Being a foreign national unfamiliar with Bulgarian legal procedures.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of Bulgarian DUI & DWI laws include:

  • The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers is 0.05% (0.00% for bus and public transport drivers).
  • Bulgaria imposes a zero-tolerance policy for drugs while driving.
  • Penalties can range from fines and license suspension to imprisonment, for serious offenses.
  • Random stop-checks by police are legal, and refusal to submit to a BAC test is considered an offense itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the legal BAC limit in Bulgaria?

The legal BAC limit is 0.05% for most drivers. For bus and public transport drivers, the limit is 0.00%.

What are the penalties for a first-time DUI offense?

Penalties for a first-time offense may include fines, a license suspension, and in some cases, imprisonment. The severity depends on the BAC level and any additional factors, such as causing an accident.

Can the police perform random BAC checks?

Yes, under Bulgarian law, the police are authorized to conduct random stop-checks and BAC tests to ensure road safety.

What happens if I refuse to take a BAC test?

Refusing a BAC test is considered an offense in Bulgaria and can lead to penalties similar to those for DUI, including fines and license suspension.

Is it possible to reduce the penalties or have charges dismissed?

With legal assistance, it may be possible to negotiate reduced penalties or challenge the circumstances of the arrest, leading to a dismissal of charges. Each case is unique and depends on its specific details.

Are there increased penalties for repeat offenders?

Yes, Bulgaria enforces stricter penalties for repeat DUI offenders, including longer periods of license suspension and higher fines.

What if I am a foreign national and arrested for DUI in Bulgaria?

Foreign nationals are subject to the same DUI laws and penalties as Bulgarian citizens. It is advisable to seek legal assistance familiar with international and local laws.

How long can a license be suspended for a DUI offense?

The suspension period varies, typically ranging from six months to several years, depending on the severity of the offense and prior convictions.

Are DUI/DWI convictions in Bulgaria reported to other countries?

Some DUI/DWI convictions may be reported to other countries, especially within the EU. It is crucial for travelers to understand how a Bulgarian offense might affect their home country's regulations and travel freedom.

Can I appeal a DUI conviction in Bulgaria?

Yes, it is possible to appeal a DUI conviction. The process involves legal procedures that should be handled with the help of an experienced attorney.

Additional Resources

For more information and assistance related to DUI & DWI, consider reaching out to the following resources:

  • The Bulgarian Ministry of Interior for regulations and legal procedures.
  • Local law firms specializing in traffic law and DUI/DWI cases.
  • NGOs that provide legal aid and resources for those with limited financial means.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance regarding a DUI or DWI in Bulgaria, consider taking the following steps:

  • Contact a qualified lawyer specializing in Bulgarian DUI and DWI laws to discuss your case and legal options.
  • Prepare all relevant documentation related to the incident for your legal consultation.
  • Consider attending legal seminars or consultation sessions if you're unfamiliar with local laws.
  • Stay informed about updates in traffic laws that might affect your case or future driving behavior.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Bulgaria 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 DUI & DWI, 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.