A DWI is an acronym given to a criminal charge which applies to operating a motor vehicle and violating driving laws. The acronym stands for driving while impaired, while DUI means driving under the influence. Every state in America has laws that prohibit people from operating cars, trucks and other vehicles while under the influence of alcohol, illicit or prescription drugs. When facing a charge of this nature, the best way to handle it and have the desired outcome is to employ the services of an Abilene DWI lawyer.
An offense of DWI is applied when a person is pulled over by a police officer and found to have a blood alcohol level of at or above the legal limitations. Legal blood alcohol levels will vary from state to state, but in Texas a first time offender can expect to have their license suspended for a minimum of 90-days, however, the individual may have restricted driving privileges restored during the time of suspension in certain circumstances. A first time offender being charged with a DWI does not have to have a mandatory ignition interlock system, but repeat offenders do. When facing a charge of driving while impaired, the best choice a person can make is having help from a lawyer who is familiar with DWI laws.
A person that has been stopped by law enforcement due to suspicion of driving under the influence can be asked to submit to a field sobriety test. For a suspected DWI, the field sobriety test can consist of a heel to toe walk in a straight line, reciting the alphabet, mental and physical coordination tests or possibly standing on one leg. If the individual fails a field sobriety test, he or she may be asked to take a breathalyzer or submit for a blood test, and if refused the person can be placed under arrest and charged immediately.
When someone is arrested for a DWI charge, the individual is taken to the police station and a chemical (blood) test can be performed. A driver that is found to be above the legal state limit for intoxication can be charged and held in jail and may need to appear before a judge prior to being released. If an individual has previously been charged with DWIs in the past and is facing stiff criminal charges or penalties, it is very important to have the help of a DWI lawyer.
Going through a directory or online search of DWI lawyers is an excellent way of finding an attorney, or seeking a referral from a friend or family member can be another route to explore. Being charged with a DWI is a serious offense and a person could be operating a car, truck, van, boat, bicycle, airplane, wheelchair, tractor or any other type of motive transport vehicle. Even if a person fails a field sobriety test and refuses to blow, they can still be prosecuted under per se laws whether or not they are actually under the influence or not.
Drinking and driving is a very serious offense and as such, there are strict laws designed to prevent or discourage people from doing it. However, when it happens and you find yourself in the position of having to defend yourself, the services of a DWI lawyer are very important. Most people do not know how to properly represent themselves in a court of law, but having an attorney to advocate for you can make a very real difference in the outcome of the situation. If there are criminal charges pending against an individual, in order to have the possible jail sentence reduced or to reach a plea agreement, it is something which will take the expertise and skills of a lawyer.
DWI laws vary from state to state and depending upon the severity of the situation and other mitigating circumstances, most individuals would do well to retain the services of a lawyer rather than attempting to go it alone. As an advisor, a DWI lawyer will advise a client of their legal rights and obligations and provide a number of viable scenarios regarding how the court case may turn out. If a person stands to lose a professional licensure or is employed in an industry where a commercial drivers license is a must, having attorney representation in court is a must.
If you find yourself facing DWI charges or are perhaps a repeat offender, having an Abilene DWI lawyer is something to give serious thought too. Going into an unknown situation and trying to represent yourself in a proceeding of this nature is not recommended and may result in harsh penalties, fines and other negative action being taken against you. Contact a DWI lawyer today and find out more information about your rights and learn what you need to know now, before it is too late.
A DWI is an acronym given to a criminal charge which applies to operating a motor vehicle and violating driving laws. The acronym stands for driving while impaired, while DUI means driving under the ...
How can a Abilene DWI Lawyer Help?It is very important to find a DWI lawyer if you have been charged with the offense because it is very serious. You should seek specific legal help from an attorney well versed in the field of ...
