Morganton DWI Lawyer

Morganton DWI Attorney

A DWI can lead to restrictions on your driving privileges, heavy fines, and even jail time. You can reduce the charges that you are facing by working with a Morganton DWI lawyer who can protect your rights and customize a legal defense strategy that can help you resolve your case with favorable outcomes.

Why Choose Cody Law Firm

While a DWI charge may not be as severe as some other criminal offenses, it can still lead to significant fines and potential jail time. Additionally, having a DWI conviction on your record could impact your career — especially in roles that involve driving or require a clean legal record.

Morganton residents have long trusted Cody Law Firm to handle their DWI cases. Our lawyers are comfortable defending clients inside the courtroom and out. We can work to negotiate a satisfactory resolution to your case. If the evidence supports your innocence, we can tirelessly work to have your charges dropped.

We focus on protecting your interests and preventing the worst outcomes for your case. Unlike some firms that may prioritize closing cases quickly, we never rush cases and allocate resources accordingly. We always respect your preferences, especially when considering plea bargains. If your case goes to trial, our attorneys are experienced litigators ready to represent you effectively in court.

DWI Basics

North Carolina has strict laws when it comes to DWIs. It is illegal to drive a vehicle while being noticeably impaired. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration is .08 or higher. Anyone found with this level of intoxication could face arrest and criminal charges. The limit for commercial motor vehicles is even lower at .04 BAC.

If arrested for DWI, drivers are categorized into one of five classifications that correlate with the state’s five misdemeanor classifications.

• Level V: This lower-level misdemeanor can result in a fine of up to $200. Jail sentences (which may be suspended) can range from 24 hours to 60 days. Community service is another common penalty that anyone convicted of this misdemeanor could face. Driving restrictions are also common.
• Level IV: This level results in a fine of up to $500. Jail sentences vary from 48 hours to 120 days, with potential suspension if the offender completes 48 hours in jail, 48 hours of community service, or refrains from driving for 60 days.
• Level III: For this offense, the fine can reach up to $1,000. Jail time ranges from 72 hours to 6 months, and suspension may be possible if the person serves 72 hours in jail, 72 hours of community service, or a 90-day driving restriction.
• Level II: This higher-level offense involves a fine of up to $2,000 and jail time from seven days to one year. The minimum sentence cannot be suspended.
• Level I: This most severe level incurs a fine of up to $4,000 and jail time ranging from 30 days to two years. The minimum sentence is mandatory and cannot be suspended.

Even first-time offenders could face jail time without legal representation. If you are facing DWI charges, your first priority should be to find an attorney who understands the state’s DWI laws and how to defend clients from these types of criminal charges effectively.

Common Defenses Against DWI Charges

Each case in Morganton, North Carolina, is unique and requires an examination of the circumstances that led to the arrest, the arrest itself, and the credibility of the evidence used by the prosecution. A defense might challenge the legality of the traffic stop if the officer lacked probable cause.

Another common defense involves questioning the accuracy of breathalyzer results, possibly due to faulty equipment or improper administration. Examining whether field sobriety tests were conducted correctly can also be a key defense strategy. Evaluating the credibility of witness testimony and evidence can further strengthen your case.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a DWI Lawyer Cost in North Carolina?

A: Criminal defense attorneys generally charge a flat for or bill by the hour. The cost of legal representation will ultimately be based on the time that it takes for your lawyer to defend you in court and the resources that are needed along the way.

While price is one important consideration when hiring an attorney, it is important to remember that experienced and successful lawyers generally charge more for their time than less experienced attorneys.

Q: Do I Need a Lawyer for a DWI in North Carolina?

A: Not having legal representation in criminal court could be a costly mistake. You are not required to have an attorney, but there are many benefits to legal representation. Your attorney can speak on your behalf so you do not accidentally say anything that is self-incriminating. Your attorney may know of effective legal strategies that you are not aware of that could bolster your case.

Q: What Is the Difference Between a DUI and a DWI in North Carolina?

A: Although some states make a distinction between DUI and DWI, North Carolina’s criminal courts do not. DWI (Driving While Impaired) is the official term used for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is a term used in other states and generally means the same thing. In essence, DWI covers all types of impairment, including alcohol, prescription drugs, and illegal substances.

Q: What Is the Average Cost of a DWI in North Carolina?

A: A DWI can lead to significant financial hardships, especially if you are convicted of a DWI. A DWI can require fees for court-imposed penalties, fees to reinstate your driver’s license, attorney fees, court costs, insurance premiums, and the cost of rehabilitation programs. The long-term cost of a DWI conviction could be considerably higher when increased insurance premiums are considered, as well as the cost of alternative forms of transportation.

Schedule Your DWI Defense Consultation Today

A DWI can lead to serious penalties that can present serious challenges for years. Insurance premium spikes, the loss of driving privileges, and other consequences of a conviction could affect both your personal life and professional career. Your most effective defense against the worst-case outcomes of DWI charges is to hire an attorney from a trusted law firm.

Don’t risk your future by not having strong legal representation in your case. The attorneys at Cody Law Firm have helped many clients resolve their DWI cases with favorable outcomes. Whether through litigation in court or aggressive negotiations, we can do whatever is necessary to change the narrative surrounding your charges. To schedule your consultation, contact our office today.