FIRST-OFFENSE DWI LAWYER IN NORTHWEST ARKANSAS
CREATING UNIQUE LEGAL DEFENSE STRATEGIES
Even if you have no prior criminal history, being charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) can lead to serious criminal penalties. Jail time, hefty fines, and a permanent mark on your criminal record can make it difficult to find a job or secure housing. Working with an experienced DWI defense law firm is the best way to protect yourself after an Arkansas DWI charge.
Our legal team will help you negotiate with prosecutors and law enforcement to reduce or remove the penalties you are facing. The criminal justice system is often more lenient on first-time offenders, although it takes an experienced DWI attorney to secure a reduced sentence or charges. Whether you have been arrested for drunk driving or driving under the influence of drugs, our team can assist you. Call Renauro Law for a free case overview at (479) 334-0355 today.
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WHAT IS A DWI?
DWI stands for driving while intoxicated. While most people think of driving under the influence (DUI) when it comes to these types of violations, DWIs can carry just as severe penalties. Arkansas state law describes a DWI as the following:
“Actual physical control” does not require an individual to actually operate the vehicle; rather, it requires that the individual have the ability to control the vehicle. For instance, if you are found sitting in your parked car with the keys in the ignition while intoxicated, you could still be charged with a DWI even though you were not driving.
Drivers can be charged with a DWI if they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Even prescription medications can lead to DWI charges, as certain prescriptions can alter your ability to drive safely. DWI cases often involve blood and urine tests that can be used against you in court.
A person who operates a motor vehicle or is in physical control of a motor vehicle while intoxicated
A person who is in physical control of or operating a motor vehicle while their breath alcohol concentration is 0.08% or higher
WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR A FIRST OFFENSE DWI?
The penalties for a DWI offense depend on your criminal history. First offenses carry the least amount of penalties, although there are still criminal consequences that can disrupt your life.
In most cases, the penalties for a first-offense DWI include:
Twenty-four hours to one year in jail
Up to $1,000 in fines
Six months driver’s license suspension
If you did not refuse a urine or blood test at the time of your arrest, you can apply for a restricted license to establish certain driving privileges during your license suspension. You may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle during this time.
If there were any passengers under 16 years old in your vehicle, your penalties may be increased. Other aggravating factors like speeding or causing serious bodily injury to another person can also increase your penalties.
A DWI conviction will stay on your criminal record unless you apply for expungement. This conviction will appear on background checks, making it challenging to apply for jobs, find secure housing, or apply to educational institutions. Renauro Law is just a phone call away; dial (479) 334-0355 to receive immediate legal assistance for your criminal case.
WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON DEFENSES AGAINST A DWI CHARGE?
DWI charges are serious offenses. Fortunately, our legal team knows how to defend you based on the unique circumstances of your case. Your specific defense strategy will depend on the nature of your charges and your arrest. However, there are some defense strategies our team may use.
The most common defenses against a DWI include:
Improper Traffic Stop
Police officers must have a valid reason for pulling you over before a DWI arrest. If the police did not notice you driving erratically or speeding, our team could argue that your arrest was invalid.
Inaccurate Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests are often used to test someone’s level of intoxication. However, these tests are unregulated, and results may be inaccurate. If you failed a field sobriety test and were then arrested, our legal team could say that your case is not lawful.
Inaccurate Breathalyzer Results
Breathalyzer tests are used to test your blood alcohol content (BAC). If these machines are not maintained properly, they will give inaccurate results. Our team will request the maintenance records for the specific machine that was used to test you before your arrest.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO DURING A DWI ARREST?
If you are arrested for a DWI, it is important to know what steps to take. Making the wrong move can increase your charges or lead to a driver’s license suspension.
When you are arrested, you have the right to remain silent. You must identify yourself to officers, but it is not advisable to admit guilt or talk about what happened. Remain polite but quiet during your interactions with the police.
Once you are at the police station, ask for an attorney immediately. Officers will likely try to question you, but you have the right to seek legal counsel at any time. Working with an experienced defense lawyer is the best way to keep yourself out of jail. Call Renauro Law at (479) 334-0355 for a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.
WHAT DOES A DWI ATTORNEY DO?
A DWI attorney on our team will work with you to build a solid legal defense strategy for your case. We believe that your life shouldn’t be put on pause over one mistake, and we are committed to working with you to reduce or remove your charges.
If you are facing DWI charges in Arkansas, contact Renauro Law today. We are confident that we can assist you. Call our law office for a free case evaluation at (479) 334-0355.