DUI DEFENSE
Penalties for Driving Under the Influence in Morgantown
The act of driving any form of motor vehicle with a certain percentage of blood alcohol content (BAC) qualifies as an illegal action resulting in a DUI. For West Virginia, the BAC level that is appropriate for anyone under 21 is .02 percent and it is .08 percent for those over 21. The standard for those over 21 years of age is the measurement for an "impaired" driver. If the individual faced with DUI charges was operating a commercial vehicle, then .04 percent is the legal limit. In addition to driving while intoxicated, the state of West Virginia also prohibits the use of narcotics and other forms of illegal substances. It is also the law that each driver must comply with taking a chemical test of their breath, blood or urine in the event that a police officer suspects the intoxication levels of the individual.
Serious consequences await anyone sentenced with DUI charges. The first time an individual is arrested for a DUI, it can result in anywhere from 24 hours to 6 months in jail with a fine of $100-500 depending on the circumstances. Not only is this costly and could result in a temporary loss of freedom, the law also requires that the driver's license be suspended for up to 6 months and a course on safety and treatment program before being able to drive once again. If the individual is stopped for a BAC test and does not comply, they will automatically be faced with license suspension for one year.
Second and third convictions can be much more severe with up to 3 years in jail and fines from $1,000-5,000. The license will be suspended for at least a year and could be revoked for up to 10 years. If the driver does not submit to BAC testing it will be at least 5 years of license revocation and a possibility of never regaining the license again. In addition to completing a safety and treatment course, the court orders that a mandatory ignition interlock program be completed before the driver's license can be reinstated.
Experienced Attorney Serving Morgantown, WV
If you are facing DUI charges, it is pertinent that you seek legal assistance immediately. Not only could the consequences of a DUI change your financial future, but also your ability to live life normally. Spending time in jail and taking mandatory courses on safe driving are two of the major penalties, but there are other unwritten penalties that are not typically addressed. Being sentenced with driving under the influence is a criminal charge and could have a major effect on your ability to get a job, to support yourself or your family, or even get an education. It will decrease your mobility and freedom, inhibiting your quality of life. An aggressive attorney can help fight to keep your rights and obtain a positive result. It is crucial that a legal expert look over your case for any errors during the arrest process that could benefit your case. Proven time and again as reliable and qualified, our firm has what it takes to ensure you are protected. Take action before it is too late!