First DWI Offense
Charlotte DWI Attorneys Fighting for You
North Carolina laws are extremely harsh on drunk drivers, even first offenders. If you have been arrested for driving while intoxicated or driving under the influence (DWI or DUI), you should not assume that the legal system will go easy on you simply because you have never been in legal trouble before.
To learn how we may be able to help you protect your driving privileges following a DWI arrest, call the Charlotte DWI attorneys at Jetton & Meredith at (704) 931-5535.
Consequences of a First DUI/DWI Conviction in North Carolina
If you are convicted of a first DWI offense in North Carolina, you will lose your driver’s license for a minimum of one year. In most situations, you can apply for a limited-use license that will allow you to drive to and from work during the one-year suspension. However, for the next three years, you will need to buy high-risk auto insurance, known as SR-22 insurance. You will also be required to undergo an alcohol assessment program and complete the classes that are recommended by the program, pay a significant fine, and serve at least a day in jail or perform at least 24 hours of community service.
The penalties for drunk driving become increasingly harsh for second or third DWI offenses. If you are convicted of a second DUI/DWI offense within three years, you will lose your North Carolina driving privileges for four years. As a result, it is important to do everything you can to keep a first conviction off your record.
Is There a Defense to Drunk Driving Charges?
Even if you think you are guilty of driving under the influence, it’s important to contact a DWI attorney in Charlotte to evaluate your case. Given the life-changing consequences you face, you owe it to yourself to consider your options.
There is always something an experienced lawyer can do to improve your situation.* For example, if the police made mistakes in the DUI stop or when administering the Breathalyzer test, the evidence may be suppressed and the charges dismissed. If any part of the state’s case is weak, the prosecutor may be willing to accept a favorable plea bargain.
Call Our Legal Team Today
Jetton & Meredith’s law office is located in Uptown Charlotte within walking distance of the Mecklenburg County courthouse.
We represent clients charged with their first-offense DWI throughout Mecklenburg County, including:
- Uptown
- South Charlotte
- Blakeney
- Ballantyne
- South End
- Dilworth
- North Davidson (NoDa)
- Myers Park
- Pineville
- Matthews
- Lake Norman
- Davidson
- Cornelius
- Huntersville
For more information about how we can help protect your driving privileges following a drunk driving arrest, contact our Charlotte DWI lawyers at (704) 931-5535.
