You may not know where to turn or what to do next. That's normal.
In this web page, we will discuss how to choose a DWI lawyer in Matthews NC, and the importance of having an experienced attorney on your side.
If you are facing serious DWI charges, it is essential to have representation from a qualified lawyer who knows the law inside and out.
A DWI conviction can have serious consequences, including jail time, loss of driving privileges, and heavy fines.
You need a lawyer and law firm with experienced supporting staff who will fight for you and protect your rights.
Here are some tips on how to choose the right DWI lawyer in Matthews NC:
- First and foremost, ask the lawyer about their experience handling DWI cases in North Carolina
- Do they have any trial experience particularly involving law enforcement in Matthews NC and cases similar to yours
- What is their experience with related practice areas involving felony charges involving allegations of impaired driving?
- Make sure you feel comfortable with the lawyer and that they are someone you can trust
- Have they authored any legal materials regarding the NC DWI laws, taught continuing legal education seminars, or received any awards or peer nominations for professional achievement?
- Do your own independent research and read online reviews and peer recognition sites like Super Lawyers North Carolina, Best Lawyers, and AVVO.com
- Confirm the DUI DWI lawyers offer a free consultation
If you are facing serious DWI charges, it is essential to have an experienced attorney on your side.
A DWI conviction can have serious consequences, including jail time, loss of driving privileges, and heavy fines.
You need a lawyer who will fight for you and protect your rights.
With the right lawyer on your side, you can give yourself the best chance possible of achieving a favorable outcome in your case.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a DWI lawyer in Matthews NC.
We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Can I Represent Myself? We believe it is always advisable to have an attorney represent you in court, no matter what the charge.
Clearly, you are not required to retain legal counsel in NC. But, it's our considered opinion that puts you at a tremendous disadvantage.
We think it's worthwhile to take advantage of a free consultation that DUI DWI lawyers offer, ask an attorney some questions, and determine to a high degree what's best for you and your family.
Is Jail Time Mandatory for a DWI Conviction? ![Jail Time Mandatory for a DWI Conviction]()
It depends on the circumstances of your case. ail time is not always mandatory for a DWI conviction, but it is possible even for a first offense. DWI sentencing in NC is a complicated aspect of the impaired driving practice area.
The judge will take into account factors such as your prior criminal record and the severity of the offense when determining sentencing.
A qualified lawyer can help you avoid jail time by arguing for alternatives such as probation or community service.
What are the Long-Term Effects of a DWI Conviction? ![Long-Term Effects of a DWI Conviction]()
A DWI conviction can stay on your criminal record for up to seven years. This can make it difficult to find employment, housing, and loans. A DWI conviction can also lead to higher insurance rates.
If you are facing serious DWI charges, it is essential to have an experienced attorney on your side. Contact us today for a consultation with a DWI lawyer in Matthews NC. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
For more information visit: CarolinaAttorneys.com
Can I Get My DWI Charge Reduced to Reckless Driving in NC? ![DWI Charge Reduced to Reckless Driving]()
Reckless driving is NOT a "lesser included offense" under the NC DWI laws.
As such, negotiating a DWI charge to reckless driving in North Carolina isn't really an option like some other states.
That does not mean DUI lawyers cannot negotiate other aspects of your case. DWI charges in Matthews NC are often accompanied by other, related criminal offenses.
If that is the case, it is possible to negotiate a plea for the dismissal of some, if not all, the related criminal charges.
A lot depends on the circumstances of your case.
A qualified lawyer will be able to review your case and advise you on the best course of action. In some cases, it may be possible to get the charges dismissed altogether.
What are the Consequences of a DWI Conviction in NC? ![Consequences of a DWI Conviction]()
The consequences of a DWI conviction in North Carolina depend on a variety of factors, including your prior criminal record, including prior DWI charges in other states, and the severity of the offense.
If you plead guilty or are found guilty after a trial, a first-time offender may face penalties such as license suspension, community service, and alcohol education classes.
Some states call that DWI FIRST.
It's important to understand, you can get jail time for a first offense DWI.
There are factors other than just your prior driver's license record or criminal history that are taken into consideration.
For example, if you have a child in the vehicle with you at the time, someone under 18 years old, that's something that can put you in jail.
Another example of when you can get active jail time is if you were involved in an accident while impaired driving that resulted in serious injury to another person.
More serious offenses can result in more serious penalties including lengthy jail sentences, extended license revocation, and large fines.
It is essential to have an experienced DWI lawyer on your side if you are facing serious charges, especially if you were involved in a wreck and someone in your car or another vehicle suffered a personal injury.
Contact us today for a free consultation with a DWI lawyer in Matthews NC.
We will be happy to answer any questions you may have about your legal issues.
For more information visit about DWI charges in Matthews NC: CarolinaAttorneys.com
What Will a DUI Lawyer Want to Know About My Case? The first order of business for a DUI lawyer is to assess the facts and circumstances of your case.
They will want to know all about the arrest, including where it took place, what kind of evidence was used against you, and whether or not you submitted to a blood or breath test.
Your lawyer will also need to know about your prior criminal record, if any.
They will then use this information to determine the best course of action for your defense.
What Should I Bring to the First Meeting With a DWI Attorney? You should bring all of the paperwork and evidence related to your case, including the police report, blood or breath test results, blood alcohol content, and any other documentation.
You should also be prepared to discuss your prior criminal record and any related practice areas or legal issue, including allegations of:
- Reckless Driving
- Open Container
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Possession of Marijuana
- Traffic Offenses - Lane Violation, Speeding Charges, etc.
DUI lawyers want to know all about your case. We ask a lot of questions. We also review the supporting documentation associated with your charges.
Even if you don't think it matters, bring everything you can that is related to your case and any related criminal offense or motor vehicle actions/charges.
We offer a free consultation.
Is There Any Difference Between DUI and DWI in North Carolina? No, there is no practical difference between DUI and DWI in North Carolina. Both terms refer to the same offense.
Many people think DWI stands for “driving while impaired” and DUI stands for “driving under the influence," but that isn't written in the NC DWI law.
In fact, the law refers to the offense as "Impaired Driving." The legal issue is whether you were "appreciably impaired" at the time.
The State may prove appreciable impairment in several different ways, including:
- Proof of a BAC of .08 or greater
- Officer's Opinion that alcohol or drugs or medicines caused you to lose your control of your normal, ordinary mental or physical abilities to an appreciable extent
- Existence of a Schedule I drug in your blood or urine
Proving drunk driving or drunken driving is not required. It is not an essential element of DUI DWI charges in North Carolina.
Drunk driving is illegal. It's just you do not have to be "drunk" to be charged (and possibly convicted) of impaired driving or driving under the influence. The State does not need to prove you were Intoxicated.
The terms DUI and DWI and even Drunk Driving tend to be used interchangeably by DWI lawyers, prosecutors, and clients.
Don't worry, if you call our office wanting to know what happens with a DUI conviction or have questions about how DUI lawyers can help, we'll understand what you mean.
If you have questions about a DUI in Matthews NC, we'd love to help.
How Much Do DWI Lawyers Charge? DWI lawyers typically charge a flat fee for simple cases or a retainer fee (a True General Retainer) plus expenses for more complex cases.
You should ask your lawyer how he or she prefers to be paid and about any additional fees that may apply before you hire them.
The amount of legal fees depends on many factors, such as the severity of the charges against you, the amount of time needed to prepare your defense, the jurisdiction in which you are being tried, and whether you go to trial.
Senior-level attorneys charge more than junior attorneys.
An experienced DWI attorney will have a proven track record of success in court and helping people through difficult times.
When Choosing a DWI Lawyer, It is Important to Consider the Following - The severity of your charge(s)
- How complex your case is
- Your location and where you were charged
- The experience and track record of your lawyer
- How do you feel about the lawyer personally?
- Do they offer a free consultation?
- Do they accept payments to make legal fees more affordable?
Take your time when choosing a DWI lawyer.
Get recommendations from people you trust, research lawyers online, and meet with several lawyers before making a decision.
Most importantly, choose a criminal defense lawyer you feel comfortable with and who you believe will fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Don't wait until right before your court date to start looking for a lawyer.
The earlier you start, the more time your lawyer will have to prepare a defense for you.
Where Do I Go to Court for DWI Charges in Matthews NC? If you are arrested for DWI in Matthews NC, your first court appearance will likely be at the District Court at the Mecklenburg County Courthouse.
The District Court hears misdemeanor cases including traffic offenses, impaired driving charges, and other criminal matters. Misdemeanor administrative court matters are handled in Courtroom 1130.
If you have been charged with a felony, your first court appearance will also likely be in District Court in Courtroom 1150 If you are not.
If you are facing DWI charges in Matthews, North Carolina, it is important to choose a lawyer who is experienced in handling these types of cases and understands the procedures and local rules for how they are handled in court.
We think it is important to choose a DWI attorney who will fight for your rights and help explain your options, including the best-case and worst-case scenarios, and discuss the legal issues involved with your charges.
You need someone who understands the law and knows how to navigate the court system.
How Long Does a DUI Conviction Stay on Your Record in North Carolina? A DWI will stay on your criminal record in North Carolina for life. However, if you are convicted of a DWI, you may be able to have the conviction expunged from your record after certain requirements are met.
An experienced DUI DWI attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options.
NC DUI Lawyers - Powers Law Firm, P.A. The criminal defense lawyers at the Powers Law Firm, P.A. have years of experience handling DWI cases in North Carolina.
Bill Powers is an attorney who has been helping people in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and serving Matthews, Pineville, and Davidson since 1992!
Contact us today for a free consultation if you face Matthews DUI charges.
Our DUI attorneys provide a free consultation for DUI DWI charges and the criminal defense practice area. Consultation fees DO APPLY to family law matters and divorce in Charlotte and the surrounding judicial districts.
We also help people and offer a free consultation in counties neighboring Matthews NC, including:
- Union County - Monroe, Waxhaw, Indian Trail
- Iredell County - Mooresville, Statesville NC
- Rowan County - Salisbury
- Lincoln County - Lincolnton
- Gaston County - Denver NC, Dallas
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If you have been arrested for DWI in Matthews NC, you are very likely feeling overwhelmed and a bit stressed out.
It depends on the circumstances of your case. ail time is not always mandatory for a DWI conviction, but it is possible even for a first offense. DWI sentencing in NC is a complicated aspect of the impaired driving practice area.
A DWI conviction can stay on your criminal record for up to seven years. This can make it difficult to find employment, housing, and loans. A DWI conviction can also lead to higher insurance rates.
Reckless driving is NOT a "lesser included offense" under the NC DWI laws.
The consequences of a DWI conviction in North Carolina depend on a variety of factors, including your prior criminal record, including prior DWI charges in other states, and the severity of the offense.
