Defending first-time DWI charges to protect your license, record, and livelihood.
A first-offense DWI in North Carolina is not just a traffic ticket — it's a misdemeanor criminal charge that carries up to 60 days in jail, fines up to $200, one year of license revocation, and a permanent criminal record. Your insurance rates will skyrocket, and a conviction stays on your driving record for seven years.
But a charge is not a conviction. At HBHK, we fight first-offense DWI cases aggressively, challenging every aspect of the stop, the field sobriety tests, and the chemical analysis.
We examine the officer's reason for the stop, the administration of field sobriety tests, whether the Intoxilyzer EC/IR II was properly calibrated and operated, and whether your rights were respected throughout the process. Procedural errors by law enforcement can be the key to a successful defense.
Yes. After 10 days of the civil revocation period, you may qualify for a pre-trial limited driving privilege that allows you to drive to work, school, and other essential activities. We help clients obtain these privileges as quickly as possible.
While jail time is possible (up to 60 days for Level 5), many first-time offenders with no aggravating factors receive probation, community service, and a substance abuse assessment. The outcome depends on your BAC level, the circumstances of the stop, and the strength of your defense.
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← All DUI & Impaired Driving TopicsHave questions about first-offense dwi? Our experienced attorneys are ready to listen, explain your options, and fight for the outcome you deserve. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.