828-329-3835
DUI / DWI
Driving While Impaired / Driving Under the Influence
Driving while impaired is a serious crime that requires the assistance of a knowledgeable attorney. The terms DUI (driving under the influence) and DWI (driving while impaired) are often used interchangeably though North Carolina law does make a distinction between them. Being charged with a DWI crime can result in jail time, loss of driving privileges, court fines, increased insurance rates, and other consequences at your employment and in your personal relationships.
Having a knowledgeable attorney who understands North Carolina’s complex DWI laws and can challenge the DWI charge you are faced with is very important. In developing a defense, it is important to investigate all facts surrounding the DWI charge. This includes speaking with police and witnesses, examining medical records, photographs, videos, breathalyzers and maintenance records, and police reports.
During the investigation, an attorney can evaluate all available defenses that can be used in your case, including the circumstances surrounding what happened when you were stopped, such as:
- Why were you stopped?
- Did the police have justification for stopping you?
- When were you informed of your Miranda rights, including the right to remain silent?
- Did the officer comply with the guidelines for administering the Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs)?
- Was a breathalyzer used?
- Was the breathalyzer properly maintained and calibrated?
- Was the sobriety test timely?
Having a knowledgeable attorney represent your interest in a DWI can make all the difference in mitigating the damage that it causes. If you are facing charges for DUI, DWI, habitual DWI, or a drug-related impaired driving charge, call Daren Gum today for a consultation at (828) 329-3835.
Obtaining an attorney in the early stages of a DWI can reduce the damage that this charge can bring. If you lose your driving privileges as a result of the charge, an attorney can ensure the appropriate requests are made to obtain a limited driving privilege as soon as possible. A limited driving privilege will allow you to maintain a normal life, such as driving to and from your employment and/or any education requirements.
An attorney can also assist you in receiving rehabilitative treatments that the court may require, such as substance abuse treatment, interlock device installation, counseling, and alcohol or drug assessments. Facing a DWI charge is scary. Daren Gum understands that DWI’s have severe, long-lasting consequences.