Alexandria DUI Lawyer
DUI Charges in Virginia
Have you been arrested or charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI)? A conviction can have a lasting impact on your life with the possibility of both criminal and administrative penalties. If you have been charged, it is advised you speak with a defense attorney before pleading guilty.
Call Silis & Associates right away to speak with an Alexandria DUI attorney about your charge. Contrary to what many DUI defendants think, they may have viable defense options that can reduce their charges or even have their case dismissed.
Our attorneys know how to identify shortcomings in the state's claims in these cases and ensure that these charges against our clients receive the scrutiny they deserve.
The time to take action against the allegations against you is now. Call our firm
at (703) 721-4773 or
contact our Alexandria DUI lawyer online for your free case
evaluation.
What is Considered Driving Under the Influence?
You may be charged with DUI for operating a motor vehicle or watercraft in the state of Virginia with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
A driver may be charged with DUI with a lower blood alcohol content, as well, if the driver’s ability to operate the vehicle is impaired or an officer determines that the driver is under influence of drugs.
It should be noted that the BAC requirement is lower for certain drivers. For a commercial driver, the legal limit is 0.04% or higher and 0.02% for underage drivers.
Field Sobriety Tests
Law enforcement officers may use field sobriety tests to determine impairment, such as:
- Walk and turn tests
- Standing on one leg
- Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test
- Standing with the arms out and looking up toward the sky
- Reciting the alphabet, counting backward
- Closing the eyes and touching the nose with a finger
Breathalyzer tests are not always accurate at determining impairment, particularly if the use of drugs is suspected. In addition, field sobriety tests can be subjective and influenced by a range of factors.
It is important to contact an Alexandria DUI lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that you receive the legal assistance you need to protect your rights.
What are the Penalties for DUI?
DUI may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on your BAC, whether this is your first or a subsequent conviction, and other factors.
The possible penalties for a first DUI conviction include:
- Up to 12 months in jail
- Fines up to $2,500
- One year license suspension
The possible penalties for a second DUI conviction include:
- Up to 12 months in jail
- Fines up to $2,500
- 3 year license suspension
- Completion of the ASAP Alcohol Program
The possible penalties for a second DUI conviction include:
- Up to 5 years in jail
- Fines up to $2,500
- Indefeinite license suspension
- Completion of the ASAP Alcohol Program
Our legal advocates can help you determine the possible penalties you may be facing and outline what our steps would be to help minimize the impact of your drunk driving charge has on your life.
Don’t hesitate to speak with an Alexandria DUI attorney to help with your charge. Contact us today to request your free consultation.