Best DUI & DWI Lawyers in Austria

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Or refine your search by selecting a city:


Founded in 1987
5 people in their team
English
Dr. Rankl & Mag. Posch is a longstanding Austrian law firm based in Micheldorf in Oberösterreich. For more than 35 years the firm has served clients across Austria, leveraging extensive experience in pursuing legal claims and maintaining a high standard of professionalism to secure favorable...
Mag. Paul Wolf
Vienna, Austria

1 person in their team
English
Mag. Paul Wolf is an Austrian attorney based in Klagenfurt who provides civil and criminal legal services with a focus on employment law, construction law, family law, patient rights and criminal defence. He represents private clients and businesses in disputes, contract matters and regulatory...
Salzburg, Austria

Founded in 2000
English
Dr. Franz Essl operates a Salzburg based law firm founded in 2000, focusing on criminal defense and civil liability matters, including damages claims and related liability issues. The practice delivers precise courtroom advocacy and tailored, client oriented solutions, supported by a commitment to...

7 people in their team
English
Hämmerle & Hämmerle Rechtsanwälte GmbH operates from Rottenmann and Irdning in Austria, offering a broad spectrum of legal services with a focus on corporate, insolvency, family and criminal law. The firm is led by Mag. Michaela Hämmerle and Mag. Andreas Hämmerle as managing partners,...

Founded in 2023
English
Haas Anwaltsgesellschaft mbH operates from Leonding with a Sprechstelle in Traun, offering a focused practice in civil, criminal, corporate and administrative law. The firm is led by MMMMag. Dr. Konstantin Haas and Mag. Johannes Degenhart, who bring extensive knowledge of civil litigation, contract...

English
Rechtsanwalt Mag. Michael Lanzinger, based in Wels, Austria, specializes in criminal law, with a particular focus on sexual offenses, narcotics law, and cybercrime. As a dedicated defense attorney, he emphasizes the principle of "condemn the act, but respect the offender," ensuring that every...

Founded in 2001
7 people in their team
English
Rechtsanwalt Mag. Martin Wakolbinger is a boutique Austrian law firm based in Enns, led by Mag. Martin Wakolbinger and supported by Mag. Lisa-Maria Landl. The practice concentrates on criminal defense and civil matters, serving clients from its central Enns office. The team emphasizes listening to...

Founded in 2010
2 people in their team
English
HOCHWIMMER & HORCICKA Rechtsanwälte is a Salzburg-based law firm founded in 2010 by Dr. Andreas Hochwimmer and Dr. Rémy Horcicka. The practice handles cross-border matters and maintains a robust network with German counsel, enabling effective representation for private individuals and businesses...
Kanzlei Mag. Gaulin
Innsbruck, Austria

Founded in 1997
3 people in their team
English
Kanzlei Mag. Gaulin is an Innsbruck based Austrian law practice that concentrates on general civil and private law and handles matters across a range of disciplines including family law, employment law, criminal defense and contract law.With a track record of thoughtful advocacy and precise legal...
AS SEEN ON

About DUI & DWI Law in Austria

Driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWI) are serious offenses in Austria. The country enforces strict laws to deter impaired driving and enhance road safety. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is low compared to many other nations, emphasizing Austria's commitment to minimizing alcohol-related traffic incidents. Police conduct random breath tests, and penalties can be severe, ranging from fines to license suspension and even imprisonment, depending on the severity and circumstances of the offense.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal assistance may be necessary in a variety of DUI and DWI situations. A lawyer can provide valuable advice if you are facing accusations of impaired driving, or if you have been involved in an accident where alcohol was a factor. They can help you understand your rights, prepare your defense, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you in court. Having professional guidance is particularly critical if your case involves injury or property damage, if you need to contest a breathalyzer result, or if you face repeat offense charges.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of DUI and DWI laws in Austria include:

  • The legal BAC limit for drivers is 0.05%, with stricter limits of 0.01% for novice drivers and professional drivers.
  • Penalties for DUI offenses can include fines, prison sentences, and license suspensions, varying with the severity of the offense and any past infractions.
  • Refusing a breathalyzer or blood test can result in additional penalties, often equivalent to failing the test.
  • Austria employs alcohol-related intervention programs that offenders might need to complete before regaining their license.
  • Enhanced penalties apply if an accident occurs while driving under the influence, especially if it leads to injury or fatalities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the legal alcohol limit for drivers in Austria?

The legal BAC limit is 0.05%. However, stricter limits apply to novice drivers (0.01%) and professional drivers (0.01%).

What are the penalties for a DUI conviction in Austria?

Penalties vary but can include fines, license suspension, and imprisonment. Repeated offenses carry harsher penalties.

Can I refuse a breathalyzer test?

Refusing a breathalyzer test can lead to penalties similar to those of a positive test result, including fines and license suspension.

Are there different penalties for repeat offenders?

Yes, repeat offenders face increased penalties, which can include longer license suspensions and higher fines, and in severe cases, imprisonment.

What happens if I cause an accident while intoxicated?

If an accident occurs, penalties increase significantly, especially if it results in injury or death. Legal representation is highly recommended in such cases.

Can foreign nationals face deportation for a DUI offense in Austria?

While deportation is not common for first-time, non-severe offenses, serious or repeated violations could impact your immigration status.

How does a DUI conviction affect my driver's license?

Your driver's license may be suspended, and completion of an alcohol education program might be required before its reinstatement.

Is it possible to contest a DUI charge in Austria?

Yes, you can contest charges, especially if there are doubts about the accuracy of the BAC test or the legality of the police stop. A lawyer can help you mount an effective defense.

Will a DUI conviction in Austria affect my record in other European countries?

Austria shares certain offenses with EU member states, so a conviction might be accessible across borders, potentially affecting your record.

What legal rights do I have if I'm arrested for a DUI?

You have the right to legal representation and to be informed of the charges against you. You can also challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution.

Additional Resources

Those seeking more information or assistance can turn to various resources:

  • The Austrian Road Safety Board (Kuratorium für Verkehrssicherheit - KfV) offers resources on traffic safety and DUI prevention.
  • The governmental website offers detailed information on traffic laws and penalties.
  • Local legal aid organizations can provide guidance or refer you to specialized DUI attorneys.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in DUI & DWI matters, here are some recommended steps:

  • Contact a lawyer specializing in traffic law. They can provide personalized advice based on your circumstances.
  • Document all details of your case, including the events leading up to your arrest, interactions with law enforcement, and any legal documents you receive.
  • Consider attending a DUI educational program or counseling, as it may positively influence the outcome of your case.
  • Stay informed about court dates and legal obligations to ensure compliance and preparation.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Austria 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.

Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Austria — quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

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.