Facing A DUI Charge In North Carolina? Call Us.
In North Carolina, a DUI charge can leave you facing severe penalties, all of which can limit your freedom and your future. Before you answer any questions from the police or other authorities, call our attorney at Fitzpatrick Law Firm. We handle North Carolina DUI cases with the utmost diligence and care. We’ve defended people across the state against these charges for the last 14 years and have built a strong track record of success.
Understanding DUI Laws In North Carolina
DUI laws in the Tar Heel State can be particularly stringent and unforgiving. The penalties for these charges can vary based on the specifics of each case. Common repercussions can include:
- License suspension or revocation
- Loss or suspension of professional license
- Issues seeking employment or securing housing
- Fines
- Jail/prison time
- Mandatory alcohol education programs
- Community service
- Increased insurance rates
These penalties can depend on various factors, including whether your charge was a misdemeanor or felony, or if you had previous DUI charges on your record. Our legal team is thoroughly knowledgeable about North Carolina DUI laws. This knowledge enables us to help you effectively and strategically maneuver your case. If you have more questions about how we can help, call us at 252-999-8746.
What Defenses Can You Use Against A DUI Charge?
A vital component of a successful defense involves scrutinizing the circumstances of your arrest. Part of our job is to challenge the validity of the traffic stop and examine the accuracy of breathalyzer and field sobriety tests. We can build a strong defense on your behalf by identifying inconsistencies or procedural errors. Our strategic approach and knowledge of the law can significantly influence the outcome of your case. We understand that your situation is unique to you, and we will tailor our defense strategy to meet your specific needs and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions About North Carolina DWI Charges
If you are facing a DWI charge, you may have questions about testing, medication and the risk of a more serious charge. Those issues can affect your license and the way your case moves forward. The following answers explain several common concerns.
Can I refuse a breathalyzer test in North Carolina?
You can refuse a chemical breath or blood test under North Carolina’s implied consent law, but a refusal can carry serious license consequences. A willful refusal can lead to a 12-month license revocation by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles. Prosecutors may also use the refusal as evidence in court. In some cases, officers can seek another lawful way to obtain a test. A roadside alcohol screening test differs from the chemical test that officers administer under the implied consent law. Because the rules differ, we can review which test officers asked you to take and whether they followed the proper steps.
Can drugs or prescription medication result in a DWI charge?
Yes. North Carolina DWI law covers driving while under the influence of an impairing substance, not just alcohol. That term can include controlled substances, other drugs and psychoactive substances that can affect your physical or mental abilities. This means even medication that your doctor legally prescribed may become part of a DWI case if police claim it impaired your driving. Drug cases may involve chemical test results, officer observations and other evidence. We can review that evidence to see whether the state can support its claims.
When can a DWI become a felony in North Carolina?
Most impaired driving charges under North Carolina law are misdemeanors, but some cases can lead to felony charges. Habitual impaired driving may apply if police charge you with DWI, and you have three or more qualifying impaired driving convictions within the prior 10 years. A crash tied to impaired driving may also lead to a separate felony charge if it causes serious injury or death, and prosecutors can prove the other required legal elements. Your prior record and the facts of the current case therefore matter. We can review both to explain the charges you face and the defense issues that may apply.
The Importance Of Legal Counsel
If you are facing DUI/DWI charges, it is imperative to seek legal counsel promptly. Our attorney at Fitzpatrick Law Firm is prepared to offer the professional support and guidance you need.
Let’s discuss the specifics of your case – schedule an initial consultation with us today. You can do so by calling our Greenville office at 252-999-8746 or emailing us through this form on our contact page.
