Effective North Carolina DWI Defense
At Todd Neal Law, PA, we understand the gravity of DUI/DWI charges and the impact they can have on your life. A DWI conviction in North Carolina can lead to the loss of your driving privileges, hefty fines and potential jail time. Without a license, you could lose your job, and a DWI on your record could affect your career. Mistakes happen, but they do not have to define your future. We are here to provide a strong defense for those facing DWI charges, ensuring that one error does not derail your life’s track.
Why People Throughout North Carolina Choose Us
Attorney Todd Neal is a seasoned criminal lawyer with more than 10 years of experience, including time spent as a prosecutor. He is board-certified in criminal law in North Carolina, which only a few attorneys can claim. His background helps him anticipate the prosecution’s strategy and craft a defense that protects your rights at every stage. We strive to minimize the consequences of a drinking and driving charge and help you move forward.
Understanding DWI Penalties In North Carolina
The penalties for a DWI in North Carolina vary depending on whether it is a first offense or if there are prior convictions. Aggravating factors can also play a role in the severity of the punishment.
In North Carolina, DWI penalties are tailored to the specifics of each case, considering factors like the number of prior offenses and the presence of aggravating circumstances. First-time offenders may face a license suspension for a year, fines, and varying degrees of jail time. Repeat offenses or the existence of grossly aggravating factors—such as prior convictions, driving with a revoked license, or causing injury—can lead to even harsher penalties, including long-term suspension or permanent revocation of driving privileges, higher fines, and extended jail sentences. It’s critical to understand these consequences, as they significantly impact one’s life and future.
Here is a summary of the six levels of DWI penalties in North Carolina:
To Blow Or Not To Blow?
When the police officer who pulled you over asks you to take a roadside breath test, you may feel uncertain. Submitting could help the officer build probable cause to arrest you. On the other hand, saying no has consequences too. In North Carolina, willful refusal to submit to a chemical analysis – like the breathalyzer – will lead to an immediate one-year license suspension. However, you have the right to appeal this suspension. Whether you decide to submit to the officer’s request or not could depend on the circumstances. Whatever you do, we can help you deal with the consequences.
Our Commitment To Your DWI Defense
As a Raleigh DUI defense law firm, we are committed to providing the best possible defense for our clients. Whether you need an attorney for a first-time DUI or you are facing charges with additional complicating factors, we’re prepared to defend your case vigorously.
Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Defense in North Carolina
Dealing with a DUI charge in the Tar Heel State can be confusing. Here are answers to some common questions to help you understand the process and implications.
What is going to happen to my license?
If you are charged with a DUI, your license will likely be suspended. A first-time offender may face a one-year suspension. Refusing a breathalyzer test can result in an immediate one-year suspension. Depending on the severity of the offense and prior convictions, the suspension period can vary.
Is a DUI a felony?
In North Carolina, a DUI (referred to as DWI) is typically a misdemeanor. However, it can be elevated to a felony if it involves aggravating factors, such as:
- Multiple prior DWI convictions within a certain time frame (usually within the past 7 years)
- DWI resulting in serious injury or death to another person
- DWI while driving with a revoked license due to a prior DWI conviction
The potential DUI felony is typically much more severe compared to a misdemeanor.
What are the penalties for DUI in North Carolina?
Driving while impaired carries a range of penalties from fines and license suspensions to jail time. The severity depends on factors such as prior offenses and aggravating circumstances. Penalties can include fines from $200 to $10,000, and jail time from 24 hours to three years.
How long does a DUI stay on your record?
A DWI conviction remains on your driving record in North Carolina according to specific timelines: for misdemeanor convictions it is seven years, while felony convictions are recorded for a ten-year lookback period. Expungement of DUI convictions is not permissible in North Carolina, meaning they remain on your record throughout the applicable lookback period.
What is the difference between DUI and DWI?
DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Impaired) are terms often used interchangeably. In North Carolina, the legal term is DWI, which covers impairment by alcohol or other substances.
Take Action After A DWI Arrest
If you’ve been charged with a DUI in North Carolina, time is of the essence. Contact us immediately at Todd Neal Law, PA, to secure a defense committed to your case and your freedom. For a free initial consultation, call 919-375-2886 or use our email form. Todd can meet you in person at our Raleigh office or via online video call.