With the summer season in full swing and many people resuming regular activities and gatherings after more than a year of COVID-19 isolation, North Carolina’s roadways will inevitably see an increase in impaired driving.
There is no one-size-fits-all-approach to driving while impaired (DWI) cases, but one thing is certain: a DWI conviction in North Carolina means that you WILL lose your driver license. An experienced DWI defense lawyer can help you avoid some of the harshest consequences in the nation for individuals convicted of drunk driving and achieve the best possible outcome for your unique circumstances.
Who Can Be Charged With Impaired Driving?
DWIs aren’t just for people who get behind the wheel after consuming too much alcohol. A person can be charged for operating a motor vehicle under any impairing substance, including marijuana and legally obtained prescription medications. North Carolina doesn’t make a distinction between driving while impaired (DWI) and driving under the influence (DUI), so regardless of whether it’s pot, pills, or Patrón, you’ll need an experienced lawyer on your side fighting every step of the way.
What Happens When You Get a DWI?
In most cases, upon being charged, your license will be immediately suspended for at least 30 days. You may be eligible for a pre-trial limited driving privilege after the first ten days and there are often pre-trial measures that can be taken to mitigate the offense. For those who are convicted, NC has six levels of punishment, ranging from Level 5 (the least severe consequences) to Level 1 and then Aggravated Level 1 (or A1) which carries the stiffest penalties. For details about possible sentences for the levels of NC DWIs, consult the North Carolina Department of Public Safety or General Statute 20-179.
Why Do You Need a Good DWI Lawyer?
If you are charged, it is important to consult a DWI attorney at Morrow Porter Vermitsky & Taylor as soon as possible. Time may be of the essence in investigating the case and formulating a defense strategy. From pre-trial motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence by challenging the officer’s stop of your vehicle and/or arrest, to cross-examination of the arresting officer in court, proven defense strategies by our experienced and respected lawyers are essential to achieve the best possible results.
About the Author:
Ben Porter is a Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist located in Winston-Salem, NC. Mr. Porter has been representing individuals charged with DWI in North Carolina for more than 25 years. He has a reputation for being a zealous advocate and being honest with his clients about the facts, matters of law, and possible consequences for each individual offense. Contact Ben today for a free consultation.