Wilmington DUI Lawyer Defending You Against Drunk Driving Charges
All of North Carolina, including Wilmington, has some of the strictest and most complicated DWI laws in the nation. A person convicted of this offense will receive a mandatory license revocation, substantial fines and the possibility of a jail sentence. A second or subsequent conviction will result in mandatory jail time. If you find yourself charged with a DWI or DUI in New Hanover County, you will want to hire the best DWI defense lawyer, one who handles a substantial number of these cases and is willing to fight for your rights at trial. Your attorney must be prepared to fight all the way through trial on your behalf. At Mason, Mason, & Smith Attorneys at Law, we pride ourselves on being one of the best criminal defense firms in the area. We have the experience, knowledge and trial skills to provide you the best opportunity for a favorable outcome in your case.
North Carolina DUI Laws
Understanding North Carolina’s DWI laws is crucial for building a strong defense. The state maintains strict regulations that can result in serious consequences for those charged with impaired driving.
Under North Carolina law, you can be charged with DWI for:
● Operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of .08% or higher
● Driving while under the influence of any impairing substance
● Having any amount of Schedule I controlled substances in your system
Recent legislation has strengthened these penalties, particularly for cases involving injuries or death. Our firm stays current with all legal changes to provide you with the most effective defense possible.
The Role Of A DUI Lawyer
Navigating a DWI charge requires experienced legal guidance to protect your rights and future. With decades of experience in North Carolina courts, our attorneys provide comprehensive defense services throughout your case. Our attorneys:
● Review arrest procedures and challenge constitutional violations.
● Analyze breath test results and field sobriety evidence.
● Handle DMV hearings to protect your driving privileges.
● Negotiate with prosecutors when appropriate.
● Present compelling courtroom defense.
The best time to contact a DUI lawyer is immediately after arrest. Early intervention allows us to preserve evidence and begin building a defense strategy from day one.
DUI Defense Strategies
Each DWI case presents unique circumstances that require carefully tailored defense strategies. Our firm draws upon extensive courtroom experience to identify the most effective approaches for your situation.
Our proven defense approaches include:
● Challenging the legality of the traffic stop.
● Questioning breathalyzer accuracy and maintenance records.
● Examining field sobriety test administration.
● Investigating medical conditions affecting test results.
● Identifying procedural violations in evidence collection.
We analyze every aspect of your case to build the strongest possible defense and achieve the best possible outcome.
What To Do If Pulled Over For Drunk Driving
Being stopped for suspected drunk driving can be intimidating, but knowing how to handle the situation can significantly impact your case. Following these steps helps protect your rights and strengthens your defense options. If stopped for suspected drunk driving:
● Remain calm and pull over safely.
● Provide license and registration when requested.
● Politely decline to answer questions about drinking.
● Request an attorney before submitting to tests.
● Contact our office immediately at 910-444-3505.
Remember, every action you take during and after a traffic stop matters. Let our experienced team guide you through this challenging situation.
If You Are Found Guilty, You Face Life-Changing Penalties
Drunk driving or “driving while impaired” (DWI) is a serious offense that can seriously impact your freedom and your future. The penalties you face are based on your “level” and based on any previous offenses on your record, your age and your license type, you could face penalties like:
- Fines, including court costs and lawyer fees
- Suspension or revocation of your driver’s license
- Jail time. For some offenses, the jail time is mandatory rather than possible
- Community service
- Higher car insurance rates
Being convicted of driving under the influence can also impact your life in ways you may not be aware of, including loss of employment (and the inability to be employed in certain jobs in the future), higher insurance rates, serious financial setbacks, personal and family embarrassment, and having that conviction on your driving records for years – if not forever. With so much at stake, you probably have questions about your DUI charges. At Mason, Mason, & Smith Attorneys at Law, our attorneys are highly trained in DUI and DWI laws, and we can offer answers. We understand that the plea offers available to you are limited, and we will fight to create the best possible result for you. We have the skill to protect your rights, make your side of the story heard and potentially lessen the charges against you.
Speak To One Of Our Experienced Attorneys
Should you ever find yourself faced with a DUI arrest, don’t wait to speak to a lawyer with the experience to advocate for you. Contact us online or call 910-444-3505 to schedule your initial consultation with a member of our team today.