DUI/DWI

Charlotte DWI Attorneys

Arrested for DWI in Mecklenburg County, NC?

The DWI/DUI laws in North Carolina are tough on offenders, so you should fight these charges aggressively in order to protect your rights and privileges. Did you refuse a breath test? Were you arrested for an underage DUI? Whatever the case may be, we leave no stone unturned in pursuing the best available outcomes* for our clients by employing aggressive strategies that involve a wide variety of defense tactics.

We are experienced with all of the following, and more:

  • Suppressing evidence that was obtained improperly or is demonstrably unreliable
  • Demonstrating that the police violated the defendant's constitutional rights during an arrest
  • Engaging in pretrial motions in order to prepare for trial or seek a case dismissal

Discuss your case with our Charlotte DWI lawyers at Jetton & Meredith, PLLC today by calling (704) 931-5535, and learn how we may be able to help you keep your driving privileges and fight your DWI charges.

How We Can Help with Your Defense

If you were arrested for driving while intoxicated, it may be the most frightening experience you have ever faced. In the blink of an eye, your life can change as you begin to contemplate the potential consequences, such as the loss of your license, fines, jail time, and having a criminal record. After an arrest, it would be in your best interest to reach out to a Charlotte DWI attorney who will fight to protect your rights.

Even if you think you are guilty, it’s important to have a lawyer evaluate your case. There is always something an attorney can do to improve your situation.* For example, if the police made mistakes during the DUI stop or when administering a 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.

Depending on your situation, we may be able to help with:

  • Maintaining your driving privileges
  • Preventing or reversing the suspension of your driver’s license
  • Preventing your driver’s license from being revoked
  • Preventing a jail sentence and/or hefty fines
  • Resolving your DUI/DWI charge as quickly as possible

North Carolina DWI Laws

The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in North Carolina is 0.08 percent. Therefore, if a driver has a BAC of 0.08 percent or higher, they are considered to be driving while impaired. However, the BAC limit for commercial drivers is 0.04 percent, while underage motorists can be charged with DWI for having any amount of alcohol in their system.

Penalties for a First DWI Offense in North Carolina

North Carolina laws are extremely harsh on drunk drivers, even for first-time offenders. If you have been arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI), you should not assume that the legal system will go easy on you simply because you have never been in legal trouble before.

If you are convicted of a first DWI offense, 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. However, for the next three years, you will need to buy high-risk auto insurance, known as SR-22.

You will also be required to undergo an alcohol assessment program, complete recommended classes, pay a significant fine, and serve at least one day in jail or perform at least 24 hours of community service.

Second, Third, or Fourth DWI Convictions

If you are arrested for driving under the influence in North Carolina and you have one or more prior convictions, it’s important to put your case in the hands of an experienced defense attorney as soon as possible. The consequences of multiple DWI convictions in North Carolina are extremely harsh.

  • Second offense DUI/DWI: If you have a prior DUI/DWI conviction within three years of your current offense, you face a mandatory driver’s license revocation for four years.
  • Third offense DUI/DWI: If you have two prior DUI/DWI convictions and at least one of these occurred within the past five years, you face a permanent driver’s license revocation.
  • Fourth offense DUI/DWI: If you have three prior DUI/DWI convictions and at least one of these occurred within the past seven years, you could face felony charges and the permanently loss of your license.

If you are convicted of DWI while your driver’s license is revoked for an earlier conviction, the court may seize your vehicle and sell it. Because North Carolina DWI laws are so tough on repeat offenders, it is important to do everything you can to avoid a first conviction. Call Jetton & Meredith, PLLC for the help you need.

Charged with DWI in Charlotte? We Can Help.

At Jetton & Meredith, our attorneys understand that one mistake does not define who you are as a member of the community. However, we know that one alcohol-related incident can damage your reputation and leave you with a criminal record and the complications that come with it. We have the skills and knowledge necessary to fight for a positive outcome* from a first offense DUI or even a second or third offense.

Contact our Charlotte DWI lawyers at Jetton & Meredith, PLLC today at (704) 931-5535 to discuss your charges and defense options.

Our law office is located in Uptown Charlotte near the Mecklenburg County courthouse. We represent clients throughout all surrounding areas, including South Charlotte, Blakeney, Ballantyne, South End, Dilworth, North Davidson, Myers Park, Pineville, Matthews, Lake Norman, Davidson, Cornelius, Huntersville, and beyond.

Client Testimonials*

The Opinions that Matter Most
    "Fabulous lawyer, highly recommend for any family law cases!!"
    Prompt, thorough, understanding and knowledgeable, are only a few of the adjectives that describe Jetton & Meredith. Fabulous lawyers, highly recommend for any family law cases!!
    - Former Client
    "A True Professional"
    Eric Meredith represented me during what turned out to be a lengthy divorce settlement. During the first meeting, he fully explained the process ahead and answered all my questions and concerns. I still remember the feeling of relief after that meeting knowing I had a true professional in my corner. Eric, along with his Paralegal Julie, kept me updated along the way and were quick to respond with any additional issues. Not only did he call with any updates to the case, he also would ask how I was doing. I cannot recommend Eric at Jetton & Meredith enough.
    - Tim
    "I highly recommend Mark should you ever need an attorney."
    I highly recommend Mark. I hired him to handle a simple assault charge that was filed against me. Mark handled it professionally and expeditiously. He explained each step in the process, and everything happened just as he described. He is exactly the type of lawyer you want representing you.
    - J&M Client
    "Great service and very personal."
    Great service and very personal. Jetton & Meredith are very hardworking attorneys. I will recommend Jetton & Meredith to anyone in need.
    - Former Client
    "I cannot stress enough how great the customer service was with Jetton & Meredith"
    I cannot stress enough how great the customer service was with Jetton & Meredith, with my case being a little more complicated I had the opportunity to work with both Mr. Jetton and Mr. Meredith. I can say they know their stuff, Mr. Jetton was able to get my case dismissed the first time we went to court, no questions asked. Working with Mr. Meredith was a longer process but he walked me through the steps and gave me realistic expectations of an outcome that he was able to provide just as he stated he would do. I couldn’t be more pleased with my decision to hire Jetton & Meredith as my attorneys, and I would highly recommend them to anyone in need of an attorney!
    - Former Client
    "Far exceeded my expectations"
    This law office far exceeded my expectations. All options and possible outcomes were set before me from the start and everything was handled in a professional and timely manner. Not only will I use this law firm again, but I would also and have already recommended them to the people I care most for. Thank you for all you’ve done.
    - Former Client

Why Jetton & Meredith?

A Passionate Defense of Your Rights
  • Highly Respected within the Legal Community
  • Unwavering Dedication to Client Satisfaction
  • Decades of Combined Legal Experience
  • Well-Established Family Roots in Charlotte, NC
  • Consultations Available on Evenings & Weekends
  • Unique & Personalized Approach to Each Case
  • Proven Track Record of Successful* Case Results
  • Numerous Professional Awards & Recognitions

Awards & Accolades

*Awards and accolades disclaimers located in the footer.