DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE (DUI/DWI)

Driving under the influence (DUI/DWI), commonly referred to as driving while intoxicated (DWI), is an extremely complex area of the law. The attorneys at Goff Voltin, PLLC have extensive experience and a strong foundation of knowledge regarding DUI/DWI laws. In addition, we have handled numerous DUI/DWI cases and spent countless hours reviewing the code to better understand these offenses.

Simply put, DUI/DWI is the operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence of an intoxicating substance. Typically, people associate DUI/DWI with alcohol; however, other drugs and intoxicating substances may also result in charges.

A DUI/DWI offense involves operating a motor vehicle (car, motorcycle, ATV, riding lawn mower, etc.) while:

First, having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 grams or more per 210 liters;
Second, being under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, intoxicants, or drugs to a degree that impairs the driver’s ability to operate the vehicle;
Third, having a blood concentration of any of the following substances at or above legal limits:
0.02 milligrams of cocaine per liter of blood;
0.1 milligrams of methamphetamine per liter of blood;
0.01 milligrams of phencyclidine (PCP) per liter of blood;
0.1 milligrams of MDMA (ecstasy) per liter of blood.

Because of these strict legal standards, anyone can face criminal charges, and a conviction can have lasting effects on a person’s record and future. Therefore, it is important to fully understand what you are facing.

Finally, if you have a criminal law charge in Newport News, Hampton, Williamsburg, Yorktown, or anywhere in the Hampton Roads area, contact the criminal defense attorneys at Goff Voltin, PLLC today.