Chesterfield, Virginia DWI and DUI

If you are facing a DUI charge in Chesterfield, Virginia, it is important to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options, and can represent you in court. Leavitt & Martin is based in Chesterfield, Virginia in Midlothian and we have over 25 years of combined legal experience in Chesterfield General District Court defending DUI and DWI charges.

The terms DWI and DUI are used interchangeably and simply mean you were driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated. DWI is technically more correct in Virginia, but they are analogous terms.

The penalties for a DUI in Chesterfield can be severe, including jail time, fines, and the loss of your driver's license. In addition, a DUI conviction can also damage your reputation and make it difficult to maintain relationships.

There are a number of things you can do to increase your chances of a favorable outcome if you are stopped on suspicion of DWI or DUI. These include:

• Do not consent to either the field sobriety tests or the preliminary breath test. The standardized field sobriety tests are designed to fail, so taking them generally just gives the Commonwealth and police more evidence.
• Not admitting guilt. Do not make any statements to the police besides requesting to speak to your attorney. Do not admit to driving under the influence, even if you think the police have evidence against you. Do not admit to drinking alcohol. You do not have to lie, but you can simply decline to answer any questions and request to talk to your attorney. You have a right to remain silent, and it is best to exercise that right.
• Hire an experienced DUI attorney at Leavitt & Martin. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options, and can represent you in court.
• Prepare for trial. If your case goes to trial, your attorney will help you prepare your case. This may include gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and preparing a defense.

If you are convicted of a DUI in Chesterfield, Virginia, you must be sentenced to certain minimum penalties that include:

1. license suspension for 12 months with ignition interlock installed if you get a restricted license.
2. referral to VASAP
3. fine of $250 minimum
4. a suspended jail sentence is usually imposed

If you have prior offenses or your breath alcohol test is high enough there may be increased penalties that include mandatory jail time, a higher fine, etc.

If you are facing a DUI charge in Chesterfield, Virginia, it is important to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options, and can represent you in court.