Chesapeake DUI Lawyer
Being charged with driving under the influence, otherwise known as a DUI, can be nerve-racking. Navigating the legal system can be overwhelming. Facing the penalties for a potential conviction can be frightening, but a Chesapeake DUI lawyer can help.
When you hire a capable DUI lawyer to represent you, there will be someone on your side who understands the legal system fighting on your behalf. You do not have to face a DUI charge alone. A lawyer for DUI charges can fight to help you obtain the best legal outcome possible under the circumstances.
Chesapeake DUI Laws
Laws governing DUI offenses in Chesapeake are addressed in article two of chapter seven on crimes involving health and safety in the Code of Virginia. Virginia law states that it is illegal to drive a motor vehicle while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. This includes all types of motor vehicles, including mopeds.
It is also against the law to have an open container of alcohol inside the vehicle while driving. Even if the open container belongs to a passenger in the vehicle and is not being consumed by the driver, it is still against the law for the driver to operate the vehicle while the open container is inside the vehicle.
A blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or more is considered legal intoxication and can result in DUI charges. The law is more stringent for individuals under 21 years of age, as they can be charged with a DUI for a blood alcohol concentration of only 0.02 percent. A Chesapeake DUI lawyer could answer specific questions regarding DUI laws as they apply to an individual’s DUI case.
Possible Penalties for a DUI Conviction
The penalties for a DUI conviction in Chesapeake are covered in section 18.2-270 (section 18.2-266.1 for persons under 21 years of age) of the Code of Virginia. The offense of driving while intoxicated is categorized as a class one misdemeanor. However, the charges can be elevated to a class six felony for persons with prior DUI convictions.
The penalty for a class one misdemeanor DUI conviction is a minimum fine of $250 for a blood alcohol level of at least 0.08 percent, but less than 0.15 percent. When the blood alcohol level exceeds 0.15 percent, the penalty for conviction could also include a period of jail confinement. The penalties for persons under 21 years of age convicted on DUI charges include forfeiture of the driver’s license for one year, and either a fine of at least $500 or 50 hours of community service.
The possible penalties for a class six felony DUI conviction could include an extended mandatory minimum jail sentence of at least 90 days and a fine of at least $1,000. The presence of certain aggravating circumstances, such as a fourth DUI conviction in 10 years, could result in a mandatory minimum jail sentence of at least one year. A DUI conviction could also lead to points on a person’s driving record.
A Chesapeake lawyer for DUI cases could provide additional details regarding the possible penalties for a DUI conviction.
How a DUI Attorney in Chesapeake Can Help
An attorney for DUIs in Chesapeake could provide assistance in several ways. An attorney could answer questions regarding the specific charges being faced, including what the possible penalties would be for a conviction.
An attorney could also provide assistance navigating the legal system, as well as provide legal representation during all legal proceedings.
Finally, a Chesapeake DUI attorney could help an individual facing a DUI charge fight for the best legal resolution possible.
Talk to a Chesapeake DUI Lawyer Today
Facing a DUI charge on your own can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. The legal system can be both complicated and confusing. Further, trying to determine how to best represent yourself legally and fight the charges is not necessarily easy.
You do not have to fight a DUI charge on your own. Help is available. A lawyer can provide professional legal representation, prepare a defense strategy, and fight to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
When you hire a lawyer, you will have someone on your side providing assistance throughout the entire legal process. Contact a Chesapeake DUI attorney for assistance today.
