Waxhaw DWI Defense Attorney

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Waxhaw DWI Defense Lawyer

You Can Fight Drunk Driving Allegations

Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a very serious offense in North Carolina. Because the law takes these crimes so seriously, DWI defense is a difficult task. However, this does not mean that it is impossible. If you have been charged with drunk driving or driving under the influence of drugs, you may be able to avoid punishment with the help of a criminal defense lawyer.

High-quality DWI defense attorneys are not easy to find, but our team at the Law Offices of Huffman & Kendrick, PLLC is the exception. We provide renowned legal services for those who have been arrested on DWI charges.

The Law Offices of Huffman & Kendrick, PLLC: Defending DWIs Since 1961

Defending DWIs is a complex task but one that our team knows well. For more than 50 years, our firm has been representing individuals charged with various crimes and violations, including driving under the influence. We have seen firsthand the extreme damage that DWI punishment can cause, and we do everything in our power to ensure that our clients do not have to undergo unjust punishment.

Though many people would like to believe that DWIs are black-and-white situations, they are often varied and complicated. Our team approaches these cases with open minds, so our clients always feel comfortable telling us their full stories. The trust that develops between our attorneys and clients means that we can build stronger defenses and win more cases than many other firms.

Though a DWI charge may be a low point in your life, we are here to help you through it with expert legal care.

What Is a DWI?

DWI (driving while intoxicated) is a charge leveled at an individual who operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The police may perform a DWI arrest if they discover that a driver has a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher or has consumed any amount of any kind of illegal drug. A blood alcohol level of .08% or higher indicates that an individual’s reaction time, judgment, and ability to navigate are all significantly impaired. In this condition, it is unsafe to drive.

Why Do I Need a DWI Attorney?

When you are charged with a DWI, you face many potential punishments. Jail or prison time, fines, mandatory classes, license suspensions, and other consequences are all possible after a DWI. There is a lot at stake, and it is important to use the proper legal tools to fight your case, including a qualified attorney.

DWI cases can be challenging to defend against, and an argument in your favor requires proper training and practice. Even if you believe that your innocence is obvious, the prosecution will do everything in their power to convict you. Without an attorney to refute these claims, you will likely lose your case and face full punishment.

An attorney can help advise you and show the facts of your case as they really are. Without an attorney, you have no way of properly sharing your side of the story. Very few people win their DWI defense cases when they represent themselves.

Potential DWI Defenses

Though it is difficult to defend against DWIs, it is not impossible. There are many potential defense arguments we can use, including:

  • Illegal traffic stop. A police officer must have cause to perform a traffic stop. If you did not violate any laws and were pulled over anyway, the stop was illegal and any evidence that the police officer obtained must be thrown out.
  • Rising BAC. If your BAC is right at .08% and your destination is close to your origin point, you may be able to argue that your BAC would have remained below the legal limit if the police officer had not pulled you over.
  • Faulty breathalyzer. Breathalyzers and field sobriety tests are imperfect and can give faulty results.
  • Coercion. If police officers or other law enforcement individuals coerced you into driving while intoxicated, your charges may be dropped.

Your attorney can help determine which of these defense arguments is right for your case. With the right legal help, you can fight your DWI charges and maintain your innocence.

North Carolina’s DWI Punishments

Every state has different methods for charging DWIs and DUIs. In North Carolina, DWIs are separated into different levels that reflect their severity. Level one is the most severe, while level five is the least.

Punishments for the levels may vary but generally are as follows:

  • Level 5: A fine of $200 and between 24 hours and 60 days in jail. A judge may replace jail time with community service or a suspension of driving privileges.
  • Level 4: A fine of $500 and between 48 hours and 120 days in jail. A judge may replace jail time with community service or a suspension of driving privileges.
  • Level 3: A fine of $1,000 and a jail sentence between 72 hours and 6 months. As with other levels, a judge may replace the jail sentence with alternatives.
  • Level 2: A fine of $2,000 and a jail sentence between 7 days and one year. A judge cannot make changes to the minimum sentences for level 2 offenses.
  • Level 1: A fine of $4,000 and between 30 days and two years in jail. A judge cannot make changes to the minimum sentences.

Felony DWIs will carry punishments in accordance with the severity of the offense and the damage done. The punishments for felony DWIs are much stricter than those listed above. Your attorney will be able to advise you of potential punishments if you are facing felony charges.

Contact the Law Offices of Huffman & Kendrick, PLLC

If you need legal support for your North Carolina DWI case, our team is here to help you. With more than 50 years of experience, our firm is well poised to represent you. We will guide you through the process and give you the best chance of avoiding punishment.

For more information about our services, including personal injury law and criminal law services, contact the Law Office of Huffman & Kendrick, PLLC online today.