Best Drunk Driving Lawyers in United States

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Combs Waterkotte - St. Louis

Combs Waterkotte - St. Louis

30 minutes Free Consultation
St Louis, United States

Founded in 2024
15 people in their team
Combs Waterkotte is Missouri's Leading Criminal Defense & DWI Law Firm.Whether you are being accused of serious criminal charges or are dealing with a DWI charge, the consequences of a conviction can significantly change your life. You want to work with attorneys who will fight fiercely for...
Sodhi Law Group, APC
Modesto, United States

Founded in 1999
English
Sodhi Law Group, APC, located in Modesto, California, specializes in personal injury, civil litigation, criminal defense, and business law. Established in 1999, the firm is led by attorneys Jakrun Sodhi and Ameet Birring, who collectively offer over 20 years of legal experience. Their practice...
Charlestown Law Group
Charlestown, United States

Founded in 2021
1 person in their team
English
Charlestown Law Group is a Charlestown, Massachusetts-based general practice founded by Jason R. J. Campbell. Campbell is an experienced litigator who has represented clients in a wide range of matters including Criminal, Civil, Family and Corporate law. Before founding the firm, he worked for Am...
The Kahn Law Firm, P.C.
Pearland, United States

Founded in 2002
English
The Kahn Law Firm, P.C. is a Pearland, Texas based firm that concentrates on personal injury and criminal defense for clients across the Greater Houston area. Guided by Christian values, the firm emphasizes ethical advocacy and practical guidance throughout every case. In personal injury matters,...
Law Office of Matthew W Peterson
Boston, United States

English
The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is a Massachusetts based law firm focusing on Criminal Defense, Family, Immigration and Business Litigation. With Boston and Salem offices, the firm brings more than 25 years of combined legal experience to clients facing complex and high stakes matters. The...

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...
TurnerZamarripa
Pueblo, United States

Founded in 2017
6 people in their team
English
TurnerZamarripa, Attorneys at Law, L.L.C. is a Pueblo, Colorado based law firm known for its focus on personal injury, family law and criminal defense. The practice combines deep understanding of state and local laws with a client centered approach, delivering thoughtful guidance and determined...
JK Nelson Law
Las Vegas, United States

Founded in 2018
English
JK Nelson Law is a Nevada based law firm founded by Jonathan K. Nelson to provide comprehensive legal services across family law, probate and estate planning, personal injury, criminal defense, and bankruptcy matters. The firm emphasizes practical guidance and diligent advocacy, leveraging seasoned...
Prism Family Law Firm
Charlotte, United States

Founded in 2012
2 people in their team
English
Prism Family Law Firm is a Charlotte, North Carolina based practice specializing in Family Law and related matters. The firm handles divorce, child custody and child support, separation agreements, alimony, equitable distribution, and guardianship, and can also assist with estate planning and...
The Law Office of Brian Simoneau, P.C.
Marlborough, United States

1 person in their team
English
The Law Office of Brian Simoneau, P.C. focuses on driver license reinstatement, RMV appeals, and DUI/OUI defense across Massachusetts. Attorney Brian E. Simoneau brings more than two decades of legal experience and practical enforcement knowledge to complex registry matters, including hardship...
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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.