Just because you have been convicted of a DWI/ DUI previously does not mean you are guilty if you are pulled over again; and just because you may be found guilty of the second offense does not mean the first offense should have any bearing on the sentencing for the second. When facing second or third DUI charges, it is crucial to have an experienced attorney protecting your rights.
Fairfax and Manassas Felony DWI Attorney
If you have two or more previous convictions for DWI/DUI, you may be charged with a Felony DWI. Not only do the penalties get worse, but you may and up with a felony on your record. In addition, the clock starts ticking on certain rights that may be available to you as soon as you are arrested on suspicion of DUI/DWI. You do not want to waive those rights by missing any deadlines. For a free consultation with a Fairfax DUI/DWI attorney at the Law Office of Anthony H. Nourse, PLC, call us at 703-659-2450.
You Do Not Have to Plead Guilty
When attempting to punish you more severely for a second or subsequent DUI, there are a number of elements the Commonwealth must prove regarding your first DUI. It must be established that you were properly convicted the first time and that all proper processes were adhered to. In addition, other factors may determine whether a previous DWI can be used against you. It may be possible to prevent a previous DWI conviction from being used against you in a later charge.
For that reason, it is crucial to fight aggressively for your rights; you do not have to plead guilty. Our attorney, Anthony H. Nourse, will investigate your first and subsequent arrests thoroughly to ensure all proper protocols were followed and that you fully understood your rights. He will seek out any weaknesses in the prosecution's case and seek the most positive outcome available to you.
Penalties for Second or Subsequent DUI/DWI
The penaltiescan go up considerably on a second DWI conviction; you could be facing a minimum 20 days or more in jail in addition to heavy fines. You may also be subjected to having an ignition interlock device installed in your car and be without a driver's license or even a restricted license. Many of the penalties for a second DUI can be just as bad, if not worse than jail time.
A third offense is considered a felony under Virginia law. In addition to minimum mandatory jail sentences, having a felony on your record is a serious matter; it is crucial to have an experienced attorney defending your rights.
Contact a Lawyer
For a free consultation with a Fairfax multiple DUI attorney, contact our firm today. Our Manassas office is located across the street from the Prince William Courthouse, and our Fairfax office is located across the street from the Fairfax County Courthouse. We accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express.