Fighting DWI Charges
In addition to motor vehicles, having a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 while driving boats, motorcycles and even mopeds can land drivers in Virginia with a driving while intoxicated (DWI) charge. The lawyers at Schmergel & Mersberger, PLC, are committed to defending the rights of northern Virginians that face DWI charges.
Penalties For Conviction
A first DUI conviction can mean a fine of at least $250 dollars and a driver’s license suspension of one year. The prospect of a second or subsequent DWI conviction may pile on fines, license suspension time and mandatory jail time, including enhanced ASAP treatment requirements. Moreover, because driving in Virginia means that you consent to a blood or breathalyzer test to determine your BAC, an unreasonable refusal to cooperate with a blood or breathalyzer test carries the additional civil penalty of a one-year driver’s license suspension (without the ability to receive a restricted driver’s license) for a first offense and for a second or subsequent unreasonable refusals – penalties become criminal convictions rather than civil.
Federal DWIs
As a state that is adjacent to Washington, D.C., Virginia has a large amount of federal property within its borders. A DWI in places such as military bases, national parks and federal highways such as the George Washington Memorial Parkway is a federal offense, prosecuted in the United States District Court for Eastern District of Virginia.
Advocating For You
Fortunately for our clients, our firm has years of experience handling both state and federal DWI charges in both Virginia and the District of Columbia. We thoroughly investigate the accusation against you, including but not limited to the basis for your stop or police encounter, the facts of your field sobriety test, your arrest and the evidence against you to craft a solid strategy to pursue a reduction or elimination of your charges.
Contact Us Today
Retaining legal representation soon after your arrest can increase a successful resolution of your case and reduce stress from the mystery of what may or may not lie ahead. Call the Alexandria office of Schmergel & Mersberger at 703-763-2645 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys.