Swansboro DWI Lawyer

Swansboro DWI Attorney

Every day, there are approximately 37 DWI-related deaths in the United States, which means an average of roughly one death every 39 minutes. While not all DWIs result in fatalities, there is an increased potential for accident-related deaths when a driver is impaired. Due to this elevated risk, North Carolina takes statewide DWI charges very seriously. The severity of the potential penalties almost always mirrors the severity of the charges. This is why you need a Swansboro DWI lawyer.

The skilled legal team at Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC, is ready to take on your unique case. Your lawyer can listen to your story, gather all the necessary evidence, and help you build a case that may increase the chances of getting your desired outcomes. Combining knowledge and compassion, your lawyer can guide you through every step of your case and advocate on your behalf.

What Is a DWI?

“DWI” is an acronym for “driving while impaired.” This umbrella term covers several different forms of impairment, including alcohol, drugs, and other controlled substances. If you have recently been charged with a DWI, a Swansboro DWI lawyer may be able to help you turn your case around.

In the state of North Carolina, the legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) limit is 0.08% for drivers 21 and older. For drivers under the age of 21, any detectable amount of BAC is considered driving while impaired (DWI), as they are not legally permitted to consume alcohol, regardless of whether or not they are operating a vehicle.

What Factors Influence the Severity of DWI Penalties?

While North Carolina will always take DWIs seriously, there are certain circumstantial elements that can factor into the severity of your potential sentencing. Here are some examples of said factors:

• Was a child present at the time of the incident?
• Did the DWI cause serious injury or death?
• Was the blood alcohol content (BAC) 0.15% or higher?
• Does the driver have previous DWI convictions on their record?
• Is the driver already on suspension for a previous DWI conviction?

If these kinds of factors or more were present during the DWI, the consequences will most likely increase in severity, and the charges may escalate from a misdemeanor into a felony.

Why Do I Need a Swansboro DWI Defense Lawyer?

In the state of North Carolina, it is legal for an individual to represent themself when facing DWI charges. It is, however, usually in one’s interest to hire a skilled Swansboro DWI defense lawyer to represent you instead. Your lawyer can help you work out your main defense, gather evidence and testimonials, and present your case on your behalf in a court of law.

If you are struggling with alcohol or drug addiction, there are people who can help you. A nearby service can be found at Coastal Horizons, whose Jacksonville location is only a handful of miles away from Swansboro. For low-cost options, try the Oxford Houses of North Carolina or look for local chapters of Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and/or Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). You have the right to representation, and you also have the right to seek other forms of help.

FAQs About Swansboro, NC DWI Laws

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a DWI Lawyer in North Carolina?

The final cost of a DWI lawyer in North Carolina tends to differ. However, while each circumstance is unique, certain common factors tend to impact the overall price. A few examples of these include how long your case takes, how complex your case is, and who you hire to represent you. The team at Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC, is ready to help you build a case that you feel is worth every penny and second spent.

Can My DWI Be Removed From My Permanent Record in North Carolina?

Unfortunately, if you have been convicted of a DWI in the state of North Carolina, a record of that is not eligible for expunction. This is one of the reasons that having a skilled DWI defense lawyer representing you is so important. Since there are several different long-lasting consequences of driving under the influence, it is in your interest to hire a lawyer who can help you avoid conviction in the first place.

What Makes a DWI a Felony in North Carolina?

There are two specific circumstances where your DWI charge can be classified as a felony:

• You were driving while impaired (as per N.C.G.S. 20-138.1) after having been convicted of three or more previous offenses that involved impaired driving.
• You caused an accident with serious injury and/or fatalities.

Felony penalties in the event of conviction will most likely mirror the severity of your unique case, leading to an increase in prison time and monetary fines.

Can I Represent Myself in My DWI Case in North Carolina?

While it is perfectly legal to represent yourself in a DWI case in the state of North Carolina, you may be setting yourself up for disadvantages. Two of your most important rights when being charged with a crime are your right to legal representation and a fair trial. These two things go better hand in hand, as your lawyer can help protect and defend you in court and as you engage with any form of law enforcement.

Get DWI Representation Today

Facing DWI charges can be intimidating and overwhelming. Fortunately, whether you are innocent or guilty, you do not have to shoulder this burden by yourself. Hiring a Swansboro DWI lawyer can make a huge difference in both your case and your life.

The lawyers at Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC, are ready to help clients across Onslow County by gathering evidence, building a compelling case, and advocating on their behalf. They can assist you in the pursuit of your desired outcomes, and if you were wrongly accused of a DWI, they can fiercely defend your innocence. If you are guilty, they can help negotiate sentencing while providing a compassionate approach to your case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.