DWI or driving while intoxicated is considered a serious crime in Richmond VA, just as any other country in US. A first DWI offense is always considered a misdemeanor. Under certain circumstances, second drunk driving offense is also considered a misdemeanor. Third, fourth and any other following driving under influence offense will often be felony charged. Third or subsequent offense will also lead to harsher penalties in case of conviction. If you are arrested for a third DWI in Richmond, you will face a felony charge. In order to reduce your penalties that can range from driver license suspension and hefty fines to probation and imprisonment, you must hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Only a qualified attorney that has handled DWI felony cases before can properly assist you.

When a DWI Becomes a Felony Offense?

Laws of Richmond define the crime of driving while intoxicated as a felony when the driver has committed three or more DWI offenses. Apart from the mentioned, a drunk driving charge can evolve into a felony if the driver has caused serious injuries or death. In case of death, you will also be charged with manslaughter and a vehicular homicide.

In order to take the first proper steps in a felony DWI case, it is of utmost importance to consult with a local lawyer. An attorney will help you understand what your rights are, as well as the possible penalties you may be facing. Have in mind that a felony charge cannot be dropped. The only thing you can hope for in this severe situation is have your penalties decreased. A number of issues make a felony DWI different from a misdemeanor DWI or regular drunk driving charge. The process of a felony DWI case is also quite different from a regular driving under the influence charge. For example, a first drunk driving offense that is usually considered a misdemeanor will be finalized in General District Court. Every state around the country has specific laws when it comes to being charged with drinking and driving including Washington DC. It is advisable to speak with an attorney in your area, and more specific, the county in which you were arrested when you are reviewing possible candidates to represent you on your charges. An exceptional DUI defense starts with hiring the right lawyer in the right location, again, including Washington DC. On the other hand, a felony DWI is finalized in circuit court. If you don’t have a professional by your side, it won’t be possible to reach the most favorable outcome in the case.

Hire a Richmond DWI Attorney

Felony DWI cases are very difficult to defend in court without having a qualified lawyer to assist you. Have in mind that in case of conviction, a felony DWI can will leave a permanent mark on your name that will inevitably almost every aspect of your life. Apart from losing your driver’s license, you may also lose your professional license. Hefty fines and court expenses may completely empty your wallet, and lastly, depending on your professional occupation, you may even lose your job. A felony DWI charge means that you haven’t taken VA law and judiciary advice seriously. Since you have been charged with multiple DWI offenses before, you will no longer be able to convince the jury you have simply made a mistake and that you are sorry for your actions. The only thing you can rely on in this delicate situation is your attorney. A lawyer will know how to challenge a felony DUI and negotiate with the prosecutors to get you the best result possible.