Norfolk DWI Attorney in Norfolk

If you have been charged with a DUI in Virginia, you likely feel stressed and overwhelmed. The consequences of a DUI conviction can be severe, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. 

The Law Offices of Daniel J. Miller is here for you. Our experienced team can help defend you against DUI allegations. We work hard to minimize the impact such allegations have on your life. With our knowledge of Virginia's DUI laws and years of courtroom experience, we are here to help guide you through the complex legal system. We care about our clients, and we want you to receive the best possible outcome for your case. 

Contact us online to schedule a consultation with our Norfolk legal team. We may be able to start building a DWI defense for you right away.

First Offense DUI Penalties in Virginia

• Fine of up to $2,500
• License suspension of up to one year
• Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device at your expense
• Possible jail time of up to one year (although it is rare for a first offender to receive jail time)

Second Offense DUI Penalties in Virginia

• Fine of up to $2,500
• License suspension of up to three years
• Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device at your expense
• Possible jail time of up to one year (with a mandatory minimum of 10 days if the second offense occurred within 10 years of the first)

Third (or More) Offense DUI Penalties in Virginia

• Fine of up to $2,500
• License suspension of up to three years
• Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device at your expense
• Possible jail time of up to five years (with a mandatory minimum of 90 days if the third offense occurred within 10 years of the second)

Personal Consequences of a DUI Conviction

A DUI conviction can have serious consequences beyond just jail time and fines. It can also affect your personal life in a variety of ways. Here are some examples.

Increased Insurance Rates

Insurance companies view drivers with DUI convictions as high-risk customers, which usually leads to an increase in payments. This can create a financial strain for years to come.

Employment Difficulties

A DUI conviction can also affect your employment prospects. Many employers are hesitant to hire someone with a DUI on their record, particularly if the position involves driving or handling sensitive information. Certain professions, such as law enforcement, healthcare, or teaching, require a clean criminal record.

Personal Relationships

A DUI conviction can also damage personal relationships, especially when the alleged incident caused damage or injury. Family members, friends, and even romantic partners may lose trust in an alleged offender.

Defenses We Can Use to Help You

Improper Stop

The police must have probable cause or reasonable suspicion to stop a driver. Furthermore, they cannot stop someone for minor offenses. If the officer did not have a valid reason to pull you over, any evidence gathered during the stop may be inadmissible in court.

Inaccurate Testing Equipment

Breathalyzer and blood tests are not always accurate. Faulty testing equipment or improper test administration can easily result in false readings.

Rising Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)

Alcohol takes time to absorb into the bloodstream, and BAC levels may climb after a police stop. Technically, you could be under the legal limit at the time but have a higher BAC when you are later tested. 

Medical Conditions or Medications

Certain medical conditions or medication use can result in false BAC readings. We may be able to use your medical records to prove your sobriety at the time of the arrest.

Poor Field Sobriety Testing

Field sobriety tests are not always reliable indicators of impairment. We can challenge the results of improperly administered tests. There may be other factors involved, such as physical disabilities, that affect your performance during a test. We can help expose these facts in court.

If you are facing DUI charges, you must consult with an experienced DUI defense lawyer in Norfolk. Our team is standing by, so call us now at (757) 267-4949 or schedule time with us online.