Why You Need an Experienced Asheville DUI Attorney
If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Asheville, North Carolina, you’re likely overwhelmed with questions: “What are my rights? Can I keep my license? How will this affect my future?” The answers to these questions depend heavily on the steps you take after being charged—and hiring the right Asheville DUI lawyer can make all the difference.
Understanding DUI Charges in Asheville
Driving under the influence (DUI), often referred to as driving while impaired (DWI) in North Carolina, is a serious offense. Asheville’s police and Buncombe County’s judicial system treat DUI cases with utmost severity. If convicted, you may face:
- Fines: Ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
- License Suspension: Losing your driving privileges can significantly impact your daily life.
- Jail Time: Depending on the severity, first-time offenders may face a few days, while repeat offenders face longer sentences.
- Insurance Hikes: A DUI conviction leads to significant increases in car insurance rates.
This is why you need an experienced Asheville DUI attorney to navigate the complexities of North Carolina DUI laws and fight for the best possible outcome.
What an Asheville DUI Attorney Can Do for You
A DUI charge isn’t an automatic conviction. With the right defense strategy, an experienced attorney can challenge the evidence against you and work to reduce or even dismiss the charges. Here’s how:
Was the traffic stop legal? Did law enforcement follow proper protocols? A skilled attorney will scrutinize every aspect of the arrest to ensure your rights were not violated.
Breathalyzers and field sobriety tests are not always accurate. An attorney can question the reliability of these results based on calibration errors, improper administration, or medical conditions.
In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate reduced charges, such as reckless driving, which carries less severe penalties.
If your case goes to trial, your asheville dui attorney will build a defense tailored to your situation. This might include calling expert witnesses, questioning police testimony, or presenting alternative explanations for the evidence.
Common Questions About DUI in Asheville
1. Can I Refuse a Breathalyzer Test in Asheville?
In North Carolina, refusing a breathalyzer test comes with automatic consequences, including an immediate 30-day license suspension and a potential one-year suspension by the DMV. However, an experienced lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of implied consent laws.
2. What Are the Penalties for a First-Time DUI Offense?
For first-time offenders, penalties vary based on the severity of the case. You may face fines, community service, probation, or even jail time. Your lawyer can work to mitigate these penalties.
3. Will a DUI Stay on My Record Forever?
A DUI conviction can remain on your criminal record permanently, making it visible to potential employers, landlords, and others. However, there are situations where expungement may be possible.
4. How Long Will the Case Take?
DUI cases can take several months to resolve, depending on the complexity and whether the case goes to trial. An experienced Asheville DUI attorney will keep you informed every step of the way.
Steps to Take After a DUI Arrest in Asheville
If you’ve been charged with a DUI, the actions you take immediately after your arrest can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case:
Remain Calm and Cooperative
Avoid arguing with law enforcement officers. Remaining calm and polite can help your case later.
Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
You are not required to answer questions about where you were coming from or how much you’ve had to drink.
Contact a Local Attorney
The sooner you reach out to a lawyer like Scott K. Dillin, the better your chances of building a strong defense.
Document
Everything
Write down everything you remember about the arrest, including interactions with law enforcement and the timeline of events.
The Importance of Acting Quickly
Time is critical when dealing with DUI charges. Evidence such as surveillance footage, witness statements, and breathalyzer calibration records can fade or be lost over time. By hiring an Asheville DUI attorney immediately, you ensure these resources are preserved and used to strengthen your defense.
