First DWI Offense

Richmond DWI Attorney

Even a first DWI arrest and conviction in Richmond, Virginia may result in the implementation of serious penalties. At Brisendine, Overand, Buster & Bernstein, we understand that your future is on the line. We know that you have likely never been arrested before and that you have not been previously convicted of DWI/DUI, but you are still at risk of facing mandatory imprisonment as well as driver's license suspension and heavy fines. That is why we are dedicated to building aggressive DWI defense strategies on our clients' behalf.

A first DWI offense is typically a misdemeanor, unless the defendant caused an auto accident that resulted in serious injury or death. The specific penalties that may be imposed will vary on a case to case basis, as well as depending on the driver's blood alcohol concentration. A defendant may face up to 1 year in county jail, fines of up to $2,500 and license suspension for 1 year. The following penalties may apply for higher blood alcohol levels:

• Blood alcohol concentration of .15% to .20% - mandatory minimum imprisonment of 5 days.
• Blood alcohol concentration of more than .20% - mandatory minimum imprisonment of 10 days.

One of many reasons it is also important to keep a first DWI offense off your record is: in the event of a future arrest or conviction, the penalties for multiple DWI offenses will be greatly enhanced. A third DWI, for example, may even be charged as a felony!

Contact a DWI Defense Lawyer

If you would like to ensure your legal rights and interests are protected throughout the legal process associated with your DWI/DUI charges, make sure you involve a lawyer as soon as possible. Even if this is your first DWI arrest, you may still face imprisonment or other penalties, as well as the burden of living with a criminal record.

Contact a Richmond DWI attorney at our law firm today.