Experienced DUI Defense in Williamsburg, VA
Aggressive DUI Representation in James City County & Virginia
Like all states, Virginia takes driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs very seriously. You will face numerous penalties if convicted of this offense, many of which can negative repercussions for your future. While you may believe you should just give up and submit to the consequences, you may have various legal options that can be used in your defense. A DUI charge is a complicated legal matter that involves many factors, from the law itself to the reliability of the equipment used, the reliability of roadside sobriety tests, how and why you were pulled over in the first place, and more.
To deconstruct your case to formulate the best legal strategy, you will need a criminal defense attorney experienced in handling DUI charges. You can rely on Woodmere Law, P.L.L.C. Backed by over a decade of legal practice, an aggressive approach, and a commitment to serving clients with the highest level of professionalism, our Williamsburg DUI defense lawyer knows what to do and how to do it in helping you seek the best possible case result.
Why Trust Woodmere Law for Your DUI Case?
- Strategic & aggressive courtroom representation.
- Support our troops! We offer military discounts.
- We fight aggressively to protect your freedom.
- Call us for your 15 minutes phone consultation!
- When you hire us, We are available to you 24/7.
Find out how we can build your defense. Call (757) 300-0309 or contact us online for an initial case review.
Understanding DUI Charges in Virginia
In Virginia, you can be arrested for DUI if:
- You are over 21 and your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) measured .08 percent or higher
- You are under 21 and your BAC measured .02 percent or higher
- You are a commercial driver and your BAC measured .04 percent or higher
- You were visibly observed to be driving in an impaired state by the arresting officer regardless of your BAC level
You can be arrested for DUI when alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both have been measured or detected in your system. Even prescription drugs or over-the-counter drugs—such as sleep aids, allergy medicines, and more—may lead to impaired driving and a DUI charge.
Penalties for DUI in Virginia Explained
The penalties for driving under the influence in Virginia largely depend on the circumstances of your case and how many prior convictions you have or haven’t received.
Possible penalties for DUI include:
- First Offense: Up to 12 months in jail, a $250 to $2,500 fine, 1-year license suspension and a 6-month ignition interlock device (IID) requirement with a restricted license
- Second Offense: 10 days to 12 months in jail, a $500 to $2,500 fine, 3-year license suspension, and a 6-month minimum IID requirement
- Third Offense: 90 days to 5 years in jail, a $1,000 to $2,500 fine, indefinite license suspension, and a 6-month minimum IID requirement
What Are the Consequences for a First Offense DUI?
First offense DUI charges are punishable by up to a year in jail, a fine ranging between $250 and $2500, license suspension, probation, the need for an ignition interlock device, six points on your driving record, increased auto insurance premiums, and mandatory completion of what is generally referred to as “DUI school.” If your BAC exceeded .15 percent, the penalties become more severe.
How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in VA?
In the state of Virginia, a DUI will stay on your driving record for 11 years, known as a "look-back" period. If you are convicted of subsequent DUI offenses in this timeframe, you will be classified as a repeat offender and face harsher penalties. A DUI will remain on your criminal record for the rest of your life.
Is DUI a Felony Offense in Virginia?
DUI is usually a misdemeanor in Virginia, however, they can be a felony under certain cases. A third offense within 10 years of the second offense will turn the third misdemeanor into a class 6 felony. Even though a class 6 felony is the lowest level of felony in Virginia, you can still be sentenced to state prison ranging from 1 to 5 years. You may be charged with a felony on a first offense if the DUI leads to someone’s death or significant physical injury. The minimum jail term for a third conviction within ten years is 90 days. If there were three convictions within five years, there is a mandatory six-month jail sentence.
Get a DUI Case Evaluation with Woodmere Law
Once you contact us, we can begin a thorough and intense investigation of all facets of your arrest to explore all potential legal options. We will work diligently to protect your rights and fight for a favorable outcome.
We are available 24/7. Call (757) 300-0309 today.
Our Satisfied Clients
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“He told me exactly what I needed to do in order to receive the best possible outcome on my court date”
- AnonymousMr. Freeman helped me out with a speeding ticket. Although this was a less serious crime compared to other cases he receives, he still treated my case as if it was just as important. He told me exactly what I needed to do in order to receive the best possible outcome on my court date. He has a very welcoming personality and he is loved by everyone who meets him. You can see this is true with every encounter he has with members of the court, policeman, clients, etc. Because of this, I felt that I already had an advantage with the judge, which was calming in a rather stressful situation. Because of everything Mr. Freeman told me to do & his prestigious reputation, my ticket got dismissed!
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“Mr. Freeman made me feel much more relaxed about the charge and helped me a lot!”
I was charged with littering, which, to my surprise, is a misdemeanor. I was very anxious over this, and really nervous, but Mr. Freeman made me feel much more relaxed about the charge and helped me a lot! From moving my court date and guiding me through the process, to the final court date, he was attentive and reassuring. Then, the day of court, I was literally in the court room for all of one minute while he got the charges dropped. I will definitely be using him in the future should I ever need more legal help, and I definitely would recommend him to anyone! Bonus: He's also got a great sense of humor!- Brooklin -
“We were very much impressed and very much appreciative to have Mr. Freeman”
Mr. Freeman helped my family beat a previous case that was pretty serious. We were very much impressed and very much appreciative to have Mr. Freeman handle such a case for us and we will always continue to seek Mr. Freeman for help for any and all future cases when needed. Mr. Freeman has the brains and answers to all of our questions and with quick responses. Great lawyer and I recommend him to any and all who needs a great lawyer.- Anonymous -
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Paul was great! He was aggressive, tenacious and compassionate. I highly recommend him!- Anonymous -
“He genuinely take the time to understand those he serves. His honest feedback was trustworthy.”
- Risa
Mr. Freeman was professional, courteous, and knows the law! He represents. This is rare among attorneys who are profit orientated. He genuinely take the time to understand those he serves. His honest feedback was trustworthy. If you have a criminal matter and are not sure who to have represent you, call his office for a consultation & bring all your paperwork & an honest account. He will fight for you! -
“He is professional and personable.”
Our family has used Mr. Freeman's services a few times in the last couple of years. He is professional and personable. We will continue to call on him when needed. We highly recommend this practice and him.- Denise R. -
“Paul Freeman was extremely helpful.”
Paul Freeman was extremely helpful. I told him my legal goals and he told me what to do to realize them, and he was right. If I ever need legal help again, I'll call Paul. Great advice, great results. He knows the law.- Louisa V. -
“What a great experience for a not so great step in my life.”
Divorces are not fun but Paul made my journey very easy and organized. He was very helpful and provided me meaningful suggestions to ease me through the process. His paralegal was great in communicating with me and responding to my emails promptly whenever I had questions. I could not have asked for a better team. What a great experience for a not so great step in my life.- Peep S.