Bridgeport DUI Lawyer

Bridgeport DUI Attorney

Flashing red and blue lights in your rearview mirror are sure to cause anxiety, but that is far from the only negative outcome that could result from a traffic stop. If you are arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or another impairing substance, the consequences can damage every aspect of your life. If you have been accused of a DUI, it is vital that you connect with an experienced Bridgeport DUI Lawyer.

A DUI conviction will have far-reaching effects, and you cannot afford to take the charges lightly. With extensive experience defending members of our community from DUI charges, Crowe Law, LLC, has a thorough understanding of these potential impacts. We can work diligently to reach a favorable outcome for your case. Even if the circumstances make an acquittal seem unlikely, our knowledgeable team can find an effective solution.

DUI Charges in West Virginia

DUI stands for driving under the influence. A DUI arrest occurs when law enforcement believes you have been operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or another impairing drug.

The legal blood alcohol content limit for adults is 0.08. A BAC above this level will result in a DUI arrest; however, if your BAC is 0.15 or greater, the charge becomes aggravated DUI. Drivers with an excessively high BAC are punished harshly because of increased dangers. In 2022, 58% of drivers involved in alcohol-related fatal crashes had a BAC of .15% or higher.

It must be noted that minors can be charged with a DUI even if their BAC is below 0.08. Because minors are prohibited from consuming alcohol, a minor driver with a BAC of 0.02 to .079 can still be charged with a DUI.

If you are suspected of having taken drugs before driving, other chemical tests can be conducted to show their presence in your system. There is no specific limit for these substances – the prosecution needs to show that the substance was in your system and that it was impairing your ability to safely operate the vehicle.

Potential DUI Defenses

In Harrison County in 2023 alone, there were 168 DUI cases and 124 total convictions. This roughly 74% conviction/deferral rate is indicative of how seriously the county takes DUI charges. Though these numbers may seem disheartening, there are still routes to building a strong defense strategy. Potential DUI defenses are:

• Legality of the traffic stop or arrest. Law enforcement must have a valid reason to initiate a traffic stop. Without a valid reason for the stop, any evidence of your inebriation typically cannot be used in court. The same applies if your rights were violated during the arrest.
• Field sobriety test issues. Field sobriety tests are subjective. Different law enforcement officers will not always interpret your actions in the same way, which impacts the accuracy of these tests. The results of a field sobriety test can potentially be challenged based on factors like location, weather, and physical condition.
• Breathalyzer test concerns. Breathalyzers must be calibrated and maintained regularly to ensure accurate readings. If these procedures were not followed for the equipment used, the test results may not be admissible in court. Additionally, breathalyzer results can be impacted by the officer not using the machine correctly, as well as recent intake of things like medicines or mouthwash.
• Chemical test procedure deviation. When drawing blood to test, the samples must be drawn, handled, and analyzed according to procedure. Failure to follow these procedures can make the results inadmissible.
• Medical conditions. There are several medical conditions that can impact a BAC reading without impairing your ability to drive. Conditions like diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and liver disease can all impact BAC results and show a falsely high BAC.

FAQs

What Are the Penalties for a DUI in West Virginia?

The penalties for a DUI depend heavily on the specific circumstances of the crime. In general, a first-time DUI will have more lenient penalties than a subsequent DUI. If any aggravating factors are present, such as a BAC above 0.15 or injuries caused as a result of driving impaired, the penalties will be more severe. Speaking with an experienced DUI attorney can help you determine the potential penalties for the specific charges you are facing.

Can a DUI Be Charged as a Felony in West Virginia?

A DUI can be charged as a felony in West Virginia. Though DUIs are commonly charged as misdemeanors, there are many situations that can result in felony charges being filed. For example, if a death results from a person driving in an impaired state, the charge will be a felony that can carry a penalty of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $3,000.

What Is the Ideal Defense for a DUI?

In Bridgeport, the ideal defense for a DUI is tailored specifically to the circumstances of your case. There is no one right answer, as the most effective defense will take your unique situation into account. Creating the ideal defense will typically involve retaining a defense attorney, as they can evaluate your case and offer valuable insight into how to fight the charges against you.

What Should I Do if I Am Arrested for a DUI in West Virginia?

If you are arrested for a DUI in West Virginia, you should first speak with a DUI defense attorney. Anything you say to law enforcement can be used against you, so do not volunteer any information or answer questions without an attorney present. You have the right to representation, and it is crucial that you use this invaluable asset while navigating the criminal justice system.

Skilled DUI Support

A DUI arrest and conviction can have far-reaching effects. Your personal and professional life can be impacted, even outside of any criminal penalties you may face. Losing your ability to operate a vehicle can be disastrous for your quality of life.

Crowe Law, LLC, understands how a DUI can impact your life and can fight diligently to reach a favorable outcome in your case. If you or a loved one has been arrested for a DUI, reach out to our compassionate team today to see how we can support you through this difficult process.