DWI/DUI

    DUI Defense Attorneys in Piedmont Triad

    DWI Charge Defense Lawyers By Your Side

    Did you know that approximately 1.5 million people are arrested per year for driving under the influence? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, this equates to about one out of every 121 licensed drivers. DWI/DUI charges are serious not only in the state of North Carolina, but across the country. That is why it is significant that you have proper legal representation whenever you or a loved one has been accused of driving while under the influence. 

    What Are DWI/DUI Charges? 

    DWI stands for “driving while impaired” and a DUI stands for “driving under the influence”. Both of these terms refer to an individual who is operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which can therefore impair their judgement and motor skills. Occasionally, this type of driving can result in vehicle accidents and serious injuries. 


    Every state has different laws when it comes to DWI/DUI charges. Some states are more lenient, while others are not. Some specifics about North Carolina’s DWI/DUI laws include: 

    There is  zero tolerance for individuals under the age of 21 drinking alcohol. This means that if an individual under 21 years of age has a BAC of .08% or above, he/she will be charged with a DWI. 

    Your BAC cannot exceed 0.04% when driving a commercial vehicle. 

    Very professional, quick to return calls with answers.  They do what’s best to help their clients.  Mrs Koontz and the whole office staff are awesome.

    DWI/DUI’s in North Carolina 

    When it comes to DWI/DUI charges, there are many factors a judge must weigh before making a decision. Specifically, these factors include: 

    Grossly aggravating factors. Examples of this include if you have had the same type of offense in the past 7 years, you are driving with a suspended license, you were in a car accident that involved a serious injury due to drunk driving, or you were drunk driving with a minor under the age of 18, etc. 

    Aggravating factors. Examples of this include driving with a Blood Alcohol Content of .15 or higher, driving 30mph over the speed limit, having two or more prior convictions for a traffic violation, driving by a stopped school bus, etc. 

    Mitigating factors. Examples of this include slight impairment due to alcohol consumption and a BAC of .09, the law was followed safely, the accused does not have any past criminal offenses, etc. 

    After the above factors are considered, as well as the age of the individual, their past criminal record, and whether the individual was driving a commercial vehicle, there will be a sentence. The following outlines various situations and their consequences:

    If the individual has three or more grossly aggravating factors, the penalties he/she faces include 12-36 months of jail time and a fine of up to $10,000. 

    If the individual only has one grossly aggravated factor, the individual can be charged with jail time. This time can be anywhere between seven days to 12 months, and a fine of up to $20,000. 

    If the individual has aggravating factors but does not have any grossly aggravating factors, the penalties can include anywhere from 72 hours to six months in jail, as well as a fine of up to $1,000.

    If the individual has aggravating factors that are equal to any mitigating factors, penalties are typically a minimum of 48 hours to a maximum of 120 days sentence, and a fine of up to $500.

    What Can You Expect From This Service? 

    At Koontz Law, we have experience providing North Carolina clients with DWI/DUI charges defense. Our attorneys have a deep understanding of both state and federal laws, and we utilize this information, as well as the accused individual’s specific case information, to help ensure that you or your loved one’s case is treated fairly. When you hire the professionals at Koontz Law, you can expect our staff to act as your:

    Educator

    Advisor

    Guide

    Support

    Advocate 

    We ensure that you understand the process and timeline, and that you have the opportunity to voice your questions and/or concerns throughout. 

    DWI Attorney Fees

    Attorney Fee
    Trials $2000
    Plea w/ Privileges $1500
    Plea w/ No Privileges $1000

    Contact Experienced North Carolina Attorneys 

    At Koontz Law, we are a company of action. We form lasting relationships with our clients, and get to know the ins and outs of their specific case. If you live in the state of North Carolina and have been charged with a DWI/DUI, please do not hesitate to give our attorneys a call. We would be happy to help represent you during your case! Give us a call today to learn more about our DWI/DUI services or to schedule a consultation. 

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding DWIs

    • What are the penalties for a DWI conviction in North Carolina?

      In North Carolina, penalties for a DWI conviction can include fines, license suspension, community service, mandatory substance abuse assessments, and jail time, depending on the severity of the offense and any prior convictions. Koontz Law can help you understand the specific penalties you may face and work to reduce or avoid them.

    • Can I refuse a breathalyzer or field sobriety test?

      While you can refuse to take a breathalyzer or field sobriety test in North Carolina, doing so may result in immediate consequences, such as the automatic suspension of your driver’s license for one year under the state’s implied consent law. Koontz Law can help you navigate these legal issues and fight the suspension.

    • What should I do if I am pulled over for suspicion of DWI?

       If you are pulled over for a suspected DWI, it's important to remain calm, be respectful, and provide your license and registration. Avoid answering any incriminating questions and politely decline field sobriety tests. Contact a DWI defense attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights. Koontz Law can guide you through the process and build a defense on your behalf.

    • Will a DWI conviction affect my insurance?

      Yes, a DWI conviction will likely result in higher insurance premiums, and your insurance company may even drop your coverage altogether. Koontz Law can help fight the DWI charges to minimize these long-term consequences.

    For more information about our DWI/DUI defense services or to schedule a consultation, call us at (336) 751-6235 or visit our contact page.

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