If you have been charged with Driving While Impaired (DWI) in Western North Carolina, it’s essential to understand the severe nature of this offense and seek the assistance of an experienced attorney. All 50 states, including North Carolina, have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of .08% for non-commercial drivers. If you operate a vehicle with a BAC level of .08% or greater, you can be charged with DWI or Driving Under the Influence (DUI). Commercially licensed drivers have a legal limit of .04% BAC. For drivers under 21, any alcohol concentration can lead to a DWI charge.
North Carolina has some of the country’s most complicated and severe DWI laws and sentencing structures, and law enforcement and prosecutors relentlessly pursue and prosecute intoxicated drivers on North Carolina highways. As a result, DWI arrests in W.N.C. are common among individuals from all backgrounds.
Impaired Driving Charges
If you or a loved one is charged with DWI/DUI, it’s in your best interest to contact a lawyer experienced in DWI defense immediately. Nathan Earwood is a knowledgeable DWI attorney with extensive experience in DUI law, having tried hundreds of DUI cases during his career. He is a member of the National College for DUI Defense, ensuring that he is current on all the latest trends, case law, and trial techniques to provide the best possible outcome for his clients.
DUI law is complex, with Constitutional Fourth and Fifth Amendment issues often present, and many cases involving imperfect “science” blood testing for various types of controlled substances. Nathan has completed multiple classes taught by the same individuals who trained law enforcement officers on how to conduct a DUI investigation. This training and his extensive trial experience allow Nathan to dissect the State’s case against you with surgeon’s precision.
It’s important to remember that DWI is not just limited to alcohol impairment. However, the charge also includes impairing prescription and illicit drugs. A mandatory one-year license suspension applies if North Carolina asserts that you “refused” a chemical analysis. Refusals are appealable at the DMV refusal hearing, but you must elect to do this very early in the process. Under certain aggravating circumstances, the court may impose a sentence of three years in prison.
DUI/DWI Cost
Fines, court costs, increased insurance premiums, and other associated fees can add up quickly and likely reach thousands of dollars. Nathan understands that this process can be embarrassing both socially and professionally. He will work with you to develop a personalized action plan, obtain/reinstate your driver’s license and privileges, and advise you on navigating the complex non-criminal consequences of DWI. He can also introduce you to valuable community resources, including counseling services, alcohol assessors, inpatient substance abuse programs, outpatient substance abuse programs, ignition interlock providers, community service opportunities, and insurance providers.
DUI/DWI Attorney
If eligible, we will promptly secure and reinstate your driving privileges, including pre-trial privileges. If the case is one in which a defense can be raised, we will file the appropriate motions and prepare for trial. At trial, Our firm will professionally and aggressively assert your rights.
If you are currently suspended as a result of a recent DUI charge, you may be eligible for a Pre-trial privilege. Don’t wait until it’s too late – call us today for a free consultation.