Tough Defense for Tough Laws
Experienced DWI Lawyer in Arlington, Virginia
The breathalyzer may say .08, but that does not mean you will be found guilty. I have helped people avoid a DWI conviction. I have helped many more clients minimize the consequences they would otherwise face for a drunk driving arrest.
If you were arrested for DWI/DUI in northern Virginia, contact the law office of Jonathan Y. Short, P.C., for a free initial consultation. I have 20 years of experience in criminal defense.
Stiff Penalties for DWI
Virginia has some of the toughest laws on drinking and driving:
- A first conviction for driving while intoxicated (BAC of .08) results in a 12-month license suspension and ASAP (alcohol education classes). For a BAC of .15 or higher, there is mandatory jail time.
- A second DWI within five years carries a mandatory minimum of 20 days in jail and a three-year license suspension.
- Drivers under 21 can be charged with drunk driving at a BAC of .02, plus a charge of underage possession of alcohol.
- Commercial drivers with a CDL license may lose their jobs if convicted, because there is no restricted license.
- A DWI/DUI conviction is expensive. You may be required to install an ignition interlock at your expense, plus fines, ASAP costs, license reinstatement fees and higher insurance rates.
Fighting a DWI
I am an experienced trial lawyer who knows how to attack the evidence. Was there probable cause to pull you over? One swerve or a broken mirror may not be a sufficient reason for a traffic stop. If we can show that the officer lacked grounds to stop you and question you, the case may be dismissed.
Did the officer rely on field sobriety tests to determine that you were drunk? Although officers use a variety of tests, there are only three tests that have been scientifically proven to be reasonable predictors of intoxication — and only if the officer administers them properly. If I can cast doubt on the Walk-and-Turn or other roadside test, the breathalyzer and other evidence may be thrown out.
Limiting the Impact
If your case is not dismissed, I negotiate for reduced charges (reckless driving) or alternative penalties. It may be possible to avoid the conviction on your record through a deferred sentence. I will also help you petition for a restricted license to drive to work, school, doctor appointments and day care while your license is suspended.
Don't plead guilty! Call me at 1.866.403.4589 for a free consultation, or contact me by e-mail to find out how I can help. I represent clients throughout Arlington, Fairfax, Prince William and Loudoun counties, and the cities of Alexandria and Falls Church.
