The Differences Between DUI & DWI in D.C.
When arrested, that person’s blood alcohol content, their age, and type of license will determine how they are charged. Whether the person is arrested for a driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI), the driver will receive 12 points against their license — resulting in an automatic suspension of driving privileges and license revocation. The differences in the charges include:- DUI
- Blood alcohol content level of .07% or lower
- DWI
- Blood alcohol content level of .08% or higher
- Blood alcohol content level of .04% or higher when driving with a commercial driver’s license
- Under the age of 21 with ANY measurable amount of alcohol
- The driver has a blood alcohol content level of .20% or higher
- The drive is under the age of 21 and used a false ID to acquire the alcohol
The Number of DUI/DWI Offenses Play a Role in the Consequences
Whether this is your first DUI or DWI offense or multiple arrests for the same charge will dictate the consequences you face going forward.- First Offense
- Minimum of six months license suspension
- Maximum imprisonment: 180 days
- Fines up to $1,000
- Second Offense
- Minimum of two years license suspension
- Mandatory imprisonment: 10 days
- Maximum imprisonment: One year
- Fines from $2,500 – $5,000
- Third Offense
- Minimum of three years license suspension
- Mandatory imprisonment: 12 days
- Maximum imprisonment: One year
- Fines from $2,500 – $10,000
- Refusal to Take a Sobriety Test, or Fourth or More Offense
- Minimum of three years license suspension
- Mandatory imprisonment: 45 days
- Maximum imprisonment: One year
- Fines from $2,500 – $10,000
- Canceled or increased auto insurance coverage premiums
- Community service
- Family conflicts
- Job suspension or loss
- Loss of trust in the community
- Personal and professional relationship trouble
- Probation
How Can Lotze Mosley Help Mitigate the Consequences of a DUI/DWI Arrest?
A DUI/DWI arrest in Washington D.C. can cause severe physical, emotional, and financial stress. Being physically placed under arrest, fingerprinted, and placed in a holding cell can lead to severe anxiety about your future and the fallout from making the mistake of driving after drinking. Approximately 75% of all DUI charges in the United States end in a conviction without the proper representation. Hiring an attorney is an important step in countering the charges that are waged against you, even when it is your first offense. Consulting with a Washington DC DUI attorney at Lotze Mosley PLLC will result in our firm uncovering the full circumstances of why you were pulled over, so we can apply the best representation available. Some of our initial questions about your arrest will include:- Were you pulled over with probable cause?
- Were you given a proper sobriety test?
- Were your rights violated in any way during the arrest?
- Was the blood alcohol collection equipment functioning properly?
- Did you participate in the screening process fully?
- Case dismissals
- Diversion programs for first-time offenders
- Decreased penalties and fines
- Probation instead of jail time
- Favorable sentencing for repeat offenders
Contact Our Lotze Mosley LLP DUI Attorney in Washington D.C. to Understand Your Legal Options
If you have been arrested with the charge of DUI or DWI in Washington D.C. do not face the prosecutor’s office alone. Allow our experienced attorney to review your case and deliver the best outcome available by calling (202) 393-0535 today. We want to protect your rights and provide solutions for your arrest before you enter the courtroom.Related Links:
Frequently Asked Questions For DUI/DWI Have Severe Consequences in Washington, D.C.
Penalties can begin immediately upon arrest, and the DMV can administratively suspend your license even before your court date. It’s critical to act fast to request a hearing and consult with a criminal defense attorney who can help protect your rights.
Yes, driving under the influence of drugs (including prescription or over-the-counter medications that impair driving) can result in similar penalties as alcohol-related offenses. The key issue is whether your ability to operate a vehicle safely was impaired.
Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney right away. Early legal advice can help you understand your rights, meet essential deadlines (such as requesting an administrative hearing with the DMV), and develop a defense strategy to minimize the impact of the charges.
A DUI or DWI conviction can result in immediate license suspension or revocation. Even before a sentence, the DC Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may administratively suspend your license if you fail or refuse a breathalyzer test. Reinstatement typically requires compliance with strict conditions, including alcohol treatment programs.
Yes. If a child passenger is present during the offense, penalties can significantly increase, including additional fines, mandatory jail time, and child endangerment charges.
Yes, a DUI/DWI conviction can affect your professional life. It can be disclosed to employers, particularly if driving is a part of your job responsibilities. Some employers may terminate employment, especially for positions that require a clean driving record. Additionally, specific professional licenses may be revoked or suspended.
If your license is suspended due to a DUI/DWI, you may be eligible for a restricted license, allowing you to drive to work, school, or other essential purposes. However, this option is only available after meeting certain conditions and may require the installation of an ignition interlock device.
While you can refuse a breathalyzer test, doing so will result in an automatic license suspension for one year under DC’s implied consent laws. Refusal may also be used as evidence in court, potentially damaging your defense.
