DWI
DWI Attorney
Serving Sampson County, Cumberland County, Hoke County, Clinton, NC & Beyond
Being arrested for DWI can be a very traumatic event. I have often stated that most people charged with this crime had no idea they were over the legal limit. They feel like they are not impaired, maybe “buzzed.” But a conviction of driving while impaired in North Carolina can have a serious impact on your life, your finances, your personal relationships, and your reputation.
A DWI conviction can have many results depending on the case’s circumstances. Offenders may face fines, license suspension, probation, mandatory substance abuse assessments, ignition interlock requirements, or even jail time. Courts consider many different factors, such as prior convictions, high blood alcohol concentration, reckless driving, or the presence of children in the vehicle, when determining potential penalties. A DWI conviction can affect employment opportunities, insurance rates, professional licenses, and your ability to maintain driving privileges. This can have lasting effects on your career, child custody, and other important factors that impact your future. Working with an experienced DWI or DUI attorney can help you understand your legal options, evaluate the evidence, and build the strongest possible defense based on the facts of your case.
If you have been charged with impaired driving, our team is ready to help you protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.
Schedule a Consultation With Our DWI Attorney
A DWI conviction may result in a sizable fine, loss of your driver’s license, and even the loss of your freedom if you have prior convictions.
If you or a loved one has been charged with DWI or driving under the influence (DUI) as it is often called, you need to speak with BP Condlin soon as possible! CALL TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION!!
BP Condlin has been representing clients for over 20 years. He has tried nearly 100 DWI and related offenses. He provides zealous, aggressive, and innovative, representation for people who are in an incredibly stressful time.
Contact Our Experienced DWI Attorney Today!
When you have been arrested for driving while impaired (DWI), hiring an experienced attorney is essential. At BP Condlin Attorney at Law, we have over 20 years of experience and will help you navigate the court system. We know your rights and will do everything we can to help you avoid jail time, lessen your charges, keep your license, or possibly get your case thrown out entirely. Every DWI case is different, and our attorneys are here to help you receive a favorable outcome. Don’t try taking on a DWI case alone; trust our DWI attorney for quality legal representation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. We offer services to those in Sampson County, Cumberland County, Clinton, Hoke County, NC, and beyond.
IS A DWI A FELONY IN NC?
Drivers who register .08 or higher on a blood alcohol test or breath test may be charged with DWI. North Carolina DWI laws indicate that motorists may be charged with driving while impaired if they are under the influence of alcohol, prescription drugs, or illegal drugs.
The North Carolina Department of Public Safety outlines five levels of misdemeanors for a DWI, as well as a felony charge. Punishments for DWI in North Carolina include:
- Level 5: Up to $200 fine, loss of license and 60 days in jail.
- Level 4: Up to $500 fine, loss of license and 120 days in jail.
- Level 3: Up to $1,000 fine, loss of license and six months in jail.
- Level 2: Up to $2,000 fine, loss of license and one year in jail.
- Level 1: Up to $4,000 fine, loss of license and two years in jail.
Felony DWI: Drivers who have three DWI convictions within the past seven years can face a felony DWI charge. They face a mandatory minimum jail term of one year, loss of license as well as completion of a substance abuse program.
Drivers who are younger than 21 face penalties if there is any amount of alcohol in their system or on their breath.
IN CERTAIN CASES, THE ACCUSED CAN EVEN LOSE THE VEHICLE THEY WERE OPERATING AT THE TIME OF ARREST!!!!
WHAT DOES THE JUDGE CONSIDER WHEN IMPOSING A SENTENCE IN A DWI CONVICTION?
The factors a judge may take into consideration when determining a DWI punishment include:
- Any previous convictions of drunk driving or driving while impaired within the past seven years
- Serious injury caused to another person
- Whether the driver was transporting young children
- Whether the impairing substance was an illegal drug or a lawful substance
- Whether the impaired driver was driving on a revoked license as a result of prior DWI conviction
A first-time DWI conviction typically does not carry jail time if there are no aggravating factors. However, the court will consider all these factors in determining the sentence.
HOW DO YOU GET LIMITED DRIVING PRIVILEGES?
BP Condlin may be able to help you obtain limited driving privileges so you can drive to:
- Work
- School
- Church
- Community Service Assignments
- Court-ordered Treatments and Assessments
Limited driving privileges are issued at the discretion of the court. After your free consultation BP Condlin will review with you whether you may be eligible for limited driving privileges and discuss what steps you need to take to request these privileges.
THINGS NEEDED TO OBTAIN A LIMITED DRIVING PRIVILEGE IN NORTH CAROLINA
A driving privilege can be given out to those with a suspended license. These privileges have strict rules and require the driver to only use their car when going to and from work.
Here is what is needed to be awarded one:
- Substance abuse assessment
- DL-123 Insurance Form(must be withing 30-day validation period)
- If non-standard hours, then work documentation from employer (signed statement on company letterhead or work schedule)
- If self-employed, need documentation (card, invoice, letterhead)
- $100 cash, money order, certified bank check credit card payment.
- For one-year limited driving privilege: if you blew .15 or higher you will be required to have the interlock installed and provide verification – you will not be eligible for driving privilege until 45 days after conviction
DUI vs DWI: What’s the Difference in North Carolina?
At BP Condlin Attorney at Law, we help clients understand North Carolina's impaired driving laws and how they may affect their rights, future, and freedom. No matter what your needs are, our firm can provide knowledgeable legal guidance throughout every stage of your case. Let’s discuss the differences between the terms “DWI” and “DUI.”
- Terminology in North Carolina: North Carolina primarily uses the term "DWI" (Driving While Impaired) rather than "DUI" (Driving Under the Influence) in its statutes, although many people use the terms interchangeably when discussing impaired driving offenses.
- Legal Definition: A DWI charge generally applies when a driver is impaired by alcohol, drugs, or another impairing substance, or has a blood alcohol concentration that meets or exceeds the legal limit established by North Carolina law.
- Common Use of DUI: The term DUI is widely recognized by the public and is often used when searching online for legal representation, even though North Carolina law officially refers to the offense as DWI.
COMMON DEFENSES AGAINST DRUNK DRIVING NORTH CAROLINA
- Did the police have a reasonable suspicion to stop you?
- Was the field sobriety test administered properly?
- Are the results of the breath test accurate?
- Did the police have probable cause to arrest you?
- Did the arresting officers follow proper protocol?
- Were you read your Miranda warnings?
- Do witnesses contradict the officers’ testimony?
- Were you really the driver of the vehicle?
Each DWI is unique. Every fact must be considered. There are multiple ways to win DWI trials.
BP Condlin is a zealous and dedicated attorney. He believes in the presumption of innocence, and he treats every client with the sensitivity and respect you deserve.
Schedule a free consultation with our criminal defense attorney today to review the details of your case and learn how we can help. Call or fill out our online form to get started. We serve all of Hoke, Cumberland, and Sampson Counties.
