DWI- Features, Forms and Consequences

Posted by John Smith on September 5th, 2016

DWI or Driving while Intoxicated, is a criminal charge wherein a person is found to be driving a vehicle under the influence of a controlled substance, a drug other than alcohol, in the influence of alcohol or a combination of these. The effects of the intoxicating substance needs to be enough that results in the driver becoming mentally and physically impaired, affecting the ability of the driver in controlling the vehicle and their decision-making ability as well.

Features

There are typically two forms wherein a DWI charge is levied. The first is based on the blood and alcohol content of the driver which is verified via a blood test. In the second form, the law enforcement officer observes the driver and conducts a field sobriety test, which is known as ‘per se’. In DWI offence, the prosecution requires providing the elements of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. The driver has the complete right of hiring a credible Criminal Defense Attorney Lubbock to defend them and present their case.

Forms

Different states have their own set of laws with regards to DWI crimes. All depending on the state, the charge may even be known as another name like Driving Under Influence or DUI, Driving while Ability Impaired or DWAI or Operating while Intoxicated or OWI. Different ways have their own norms in which they administer the field sobriety tests, distinct legal limits for blood alcohol levels and how to handle various other situations like other passengers in the vehicle and underage drivers. If you or any of your loved ones have been arrested and charged with DWI, you can hire a prominent DWI Attorney Lubbock who will inform you about your rights and help you get away from the punishment or ensure minimal punishment.

Consequences

If charged with DWI, a person may receive penalties like psychological counseling, license suspension, community service, fines and up to one year in jail, or even a combination of these. The severity of the punishment may increase if the driver has been earlier charged and convicted for DWI. In some of the states, if a person is arrested for DWI and it is his/her first arrest, it may be considered as a misdemeanor and the charge may not appear on the criminal record of the driver. But if the driver is again arrested on similar charges, it will be termed as felonies and will appear on their criminal records.

If a DWI charge is filed against you, it may affect various aspects of your life like probation, relationships, employment, child custody arrangements etc. So, contact a criminal or Family Law Attorney Lubbock instantly!