Skilled Virginia Second DUI Lawyer
Virginia laws impose harsher penalties for repeat DUI charges, emphasizing their focus on deterring impaired driving. Such charges demand immediate attention from a criminal defense attorney who deeply comprehends Virginia DUI laws and procedures.
Stephen P. Pfeiffer handles complex DUI cases throughout Virginia Beach with remarkable success. As an NHTSA-certified attorney in Standardized Field Sobriety Testing, he leverages this experience to scrutinize every detail of second-offense DUI arrests. With thousands of DUI cases tried and a record of results-driven advocacy, Mr. Pfeiffer is dedicated to minimizing the impact of these charges on your life. From the first consultation, you can trust that your case will be handled with precision and care.
The State’s Approach To Second-Offense DUI Charges
A second DUI offense significantly differs from a first-time charge. It comes with stricter consequences and requires thorough preparation to build a defense. Key factors in such cases include prior convictions, the time elapsed since the first offense and the circumstances of the arrest.
Virginia law enforces mandatory minimum penalties for repeat DUI offenders. This means the courts have less discretion in sentencing, making it even more critical to mount a strong defense.
Penalties For Second DUI Offenses In Virginia
The consequences of a second DUI conviction in Virginia extend far beyond the courtroom:
- Mandatory minimum jail sentence of 20 days if the second DUI is within 10 years of first offense
- Fines ranging from $500 to $2,500, plus court costs
- Driver’s license revocation for three years
- Mandatory installation of ignition interlock device
- Completion of Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program (VASAP)
- Potential vehicle forfeiture
- Criminal record impacting employment opportunities
Such penalties can quickly disrupt daily life. However, it is possible to mitigate these consequences with strategic legal guidance from a lawyer.
Understanding The Long-Term Consequences Of A Second DUI Offense In Virginia
A second DUI conviction can extend its reach far beyond fines and jail time:
- Financial: Insurance hikes, legal fees
- Professional: License issues, job limitations, security clearance risks
- Personal: Travel restrictions, relationship strain
All in all, taking immediate legal action can help protect your rights and future opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Second DUI Offense In Virginia
Facing your second DUI charge requires an informed approach. Here are answers to some of the frequently asked questions:
How can an attorney help me if I am arrested for DUI?
An attorney can advise you before you give any statements to the police. An attorney can explain the potential penalties and help you decide whether to pursue a plea deal or go to trial. An experienced DUI lawyer knows how to challenge the government’s case. Did the officer have reasonable suspicion for the traffic stop? Did the officer have probable cause for an arrest? Was the BAC test properly conducted? A lawyer who can identify holes in the prosecutor’s case and may be able to secure a dismissal of charges, reduced charges, lesser penalties or acquittal at trial. An attorney should be very familiar with the local court to better understand the personalities of the prosecutor, officer and judge and how to best tailor your defense to those personalities to maximize your chance for a good result.
Are field sobriety tests used in court?
Law enforcement uses roadside sobriety tests to decide whether to make an arrest. Some field sobriety tests (such as the walk and turn) are recognized by Virginia courts as evidence of intoxication. Other tests (such as reciting the alphabet backward) are often not admissible in court. An experienced DUI lawyer will know how to challenge such evidence, including the dashcam video of roadside tests.
Where can I go to get an Ignition Interlock device installed?
Virginia requires ignition interlock systems to be installed by an approved provider. There are three authorized providers in the state: Smart Start, LifeSafer, and Draeger. Personally, we recommend Smart Start and would be happy to discuss the reasons for my recommendation with you.
What does Ignition Interlock cost?
Interlock generally costs about $80.00 a month.
Call Stephen P. Pfeiffer – There Is No Time To Waste
When facing a second DUI charge, the stakes are high, but so are the opportunities for defense. Stephen P. Pfeiffer’s dedication has earned him recognition as a trusted advocate throughout Virginia. Call his Virginia Beach law office at 757-901-0808 or contact him via the online form to get effective legal representation.