Springfield DUI Defense Attorneys

An arrest for driving under the influence can completely upend your life. In addition to dealing with the immediate stress of an arrest, you may be unsure about whether you could lose your driver's license or face other penalties. If you are convicted of DUI, the outcome of your case could affect your freedom and your finances, and it could limit your career opportunities and have an impact on your personal life. If you have been charged with DUI in Springfield, Virginia, the decisions you make in the days and weeks ahead will matter, and you will need an experienced legal advocate who can help you resolve your case successfully.

The attorneys at Robinson Law, PLLC understand what is at stake when you are facing DUI charges. We will take the time to learn the full story behind your case, examine the evidence carefully, and develop defense strategies designed to achieve the best possible outcome for you. Our goal is to provide the compassionate representation you need to get through this difficult situation and protect against problems that could affect your future.

Penalties for DUI Convictions in Virginia

Operating a motor vehicle while you are impaired by alcohol, illegal drugs, prescription medications, or a combination of substances can lead to DUI charges. The penalties of a DUI conviction may depend on several factors, including whether you have any prior DUI convictions, how much time has passed since any prior offense, and whether your case involved aggravating factors. Our lawyers will help you understand the potential consequences you may face in different situations, including:

First Offense DUI

A first-time DUI will generally be charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia. Penalties for a conviction may include a mandatory minimum fine of $250, a maximum fine of $2,500, and a 12-month suspension of your driver's license. While a jail sentence is not always imposed for a first DUI offense, jail time may be a possibility, and the maximum sentence is one year. You may be able to regain your driving privileges during your license suspension period by installing an ignition interlock device in your vehicle and meeting other requirements.

Second Offense DUI

The consequences increase substantially for a second DUI conviction. A second offense within five years of the first carries a mandatory minimum of 20 days in jail and a minimum fine of $500. If the second offense occurs between five and ten years after the first, the mandatory minimum jail sentence is 10 days. A judge may be more likely to sentence you to a longer period of jail time if you are a repeat offender.

Third Offense and Felony DUI Charges

If you are charged with DUI for the third time within a 10-year period, you will face Class 6 felony charges. A felony conviction can lead to a longer period of jail time and higher fines, as well as other penalties. You may lose your right to vote and possess firearms, and you may be unable to receive certain professional licenses or work in certain jobs.

Aggravating Factors That Can Increase DUI Penalties

Certain circumstances can result in enhanced penalties, even for a first DUI offense. These include:

• Elevated BAC Levels: A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) between 0.15 percent and 0.20 percent will require you to serve a mandatory minimum five-day jail sentence if you are convicted of DUI. With a BAC above 0.20 percent, the mandatory minimum sentence increases to 10 days.
• Minor Passengers: If you were transporting a child under the age of 17 when you were allegedly intoxicated, the penalties of a DUI conviction will include an additional fine ranging from $500 to $1,000 and a mandatory minimum sentence of five days in jail.
• DUI Causing Serious Injury or Death: If you are accused of causing someone else to suffer a serious injury because you were intoxicated, you could face felony charges. If you allegedly caused an accident that led to the death of another person, you could be charged with involuntary manslaughter.