In the Commonwealth of Virginia, a “driving under the influence” (DUI) or “driving while intoxicated” (DWI) charge is definitely not something to ignore. Even a first-time offense has serious consequences. Possible outcomes of a conviction include incarceration & a fine as high as $2,500, as well as a 12-month suspension of license.
A conviction is considered to be a criminal offense and will go on your record. The majority of Virginia drivers don’t understand that there are actually numerous technical & legal defenses available when dealing with a DUI case.
If you have been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you should seek legal advice right away. Start with a professional Virginia DUI attorney. Eric Korslund has been representing DUI and DWI defendants for many years. Contact DUI Attorney Eric Korslund, P.C. at (757) 502-8041 for guidance and legal representation concerning your case.
CONSEQUENCES OF A VIRGINIA DUI
Virginia is tough on people that have been accused of drunk driving. The latest statistics demonstrate that there were 20,768 convictions in Virginia in 2015 for citizens that were driving while impaired.
It is common for defendants to be urged to plead guilty. Yet the frequent reality is that there are mitigating circumstances which may prove their innocence. You do have the right to receive a fair trial and do not need to readily admit to guilt.
The results of a DUI conviction have become harsher in recent times. It is vital to have professional legal support from a knowledgeable Virginia DUI lawyer and law firm before entering court proceedings. Below are just a few of the downfalls associated with reckless driving and DUI convictions:
- Paying fines
- Jail time
- Criminal record/criminal charges
- Mandated alcohol education courses
- Driver’s license suspension
- Required to carry double the normal liability insurance
The punishment for a DUI or DWI conviction varies among jurisdictions and also depends upon the particulars of the case. In the event that a sentence enhancement is given, then you will get an even worse punishment.
DUI AND DWI DEFENSE
Cases involving DUI defense or DWI demand considerable attorney expertise. Lucky for you, our expertise still comes along with a free consultation first. Your attorney needs to have an extensive knowledge of the law pertaining to these kinds of offenses. On top of that, they must also be familiar with multiple scientific areas including anatomy, chemistry and toxicology.
Eric Korslund understands both the legal and scientific processes. This expertise can help you avoid misdemeanor or felony offenses.
Eric Korslund is knowledgeable in the equipment employed to test blood alcohol levels. The breath test – among other field sobriety tests – is just one of the ways a prosecutor will attempt to prove DUI. For that reason, it is also a significant factor in preparing a solid defense.
Mr. Korslund will thoroughly scrutinize the available evidence in an effort to have you found not guilty. Eric Korslund will carefully review your case for all of the most common defects in these types of cases.
There are numerous steps associated with a DUI arrest. If an error is made at any point, the charges may be dropped. Evidence that can be questioned includes:
- Breath test results
- Field sobriety test results
- Machine maintenance records
- The qualifications of the breath-test operator
Contact Eric Korslund, P.C., a Virginia criminal defense attorney, if you have been accused of DUI or DWI, at (757) 502-8041.