Even just having a few drinks can put a person over the legal limit. Although it does depend in the circumstances, it’s recommended people have someone drive them home if they’ve had any amount to drink and could be over the limit. Often, people ignore this advice and if they’re pulled over they can be arrested and charged with a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated). This could have severe penalties, even if they have not been arrested in the past.
Penalties for a DWI in Louisiana
A person who is arrested for the first time faces between two days and six months in jail, a 90 day suspension of their license, up to $1,000 in fines and the possibility of an Interlock Ignition Device (IID) begin required once they can drive again. The more times they are convicted, the higher the penalties. A person who is arrested for their fourth offense in ten years faces 75 days to 30 years in jail, up to $5,000 in fines, two years with a suspended license, and an IID being required. The penalties can be more severe if there was an accident or someone was injured.
Limiting the Penalties
The person should hire a DWI Defense Attorney in New Iberia LA as soon as possible after their arrest, no matter if it’s their first arrest or their fourth. The lawyer can help have the charges dropped, have the charges reduced or help the person avoid receiving the maximum penalties if they’re convicted. The lawyer can also help protect their rights if the lawyer is hired before the person speaks to the police by ensuring they don’t say anything that could be incriminating. This is only possible if they hire a lawyer immediately and do not answer any questions beforehand.
Although a DWI is a serious crime, hiring a DWI Defense Attorney in New Iberia LA can mean the difference between the charges being dropped for a lack of evidence and 30 years in jail. Anyone who has been arrested is advised to hire an attorney as quickly as possible to protect their rights and limit the penalties they could receive. Visit chrisrichardattorney.com today for more information or to hire a lawyer.
