Seasoned Attorneys Defend Repeat DUI Offenders in the Fredericksburg, Virginia Area

Paying special attention to the problems associated with drivers who have multiple DUI arrests

Woodbridge, Coleman & Stevens, P.C. Attorneys at Law knows that the first time a driver is stopped by law enforcement and cited for drunk driving, it can be a life-changing event. Unfortunately, some drivers are arrested multiple times for DUI. The punishment for even one DUI conviction is severe. The punishment imposed upon an individual for a second, third or subsequent DUI conviction is even greater:

• First DUI conviction. A first DUI conviction results in a mandatory minimum fine of $250 and a one-year license revocation. Conducting your daily life without a car for one year can be extremely challenging and requires changes to your customary habits that seriously affect your personal and professional life. Consider the following questions. What happens to you when your driving privileges are cut off? Do you have someone who can drive you to work or to the store when you need to shop? Is reliable and cost-effective public transportation available in your area? Can you use alternative transportation, such as a bicycle, to meet your daily needs? If your DUI arrest leads to conviction, these and other uncomfortable questions have to be addressed.
• Second DUI conviction. A second DUI conviction leads to more severe punishment than first offenses. A mandatory minimum fine of $500, a three-year license revocation and up to one year in jail follows a second conviction. Incarceration for up to one year is a high price to pay for any individual. During incarceration you are unable to live your daily life, go to work and see your friends and family when you please. Also, three years without a license is a long-term deprivation of the driving privilege, a privilege most people take for granted and depend on for a normal life.
• Third DUI conviction. A third DUI conviction results in a mandatory jail time and minimum fine of $1,000, an indefinite license revocation and prosecution as a felony. You face a Class 6 felony charge, which upon conviction, requires a prison sentence of one to five years. It is, however, possible that a court or jury may decide that jail time of up to 12 months and a $2,500 fine are appropriate.

In addition to the consequences noted above, additional punishment including mandatory jail time applies to repeat offenders if convicted of two or three DUI offenses within a five- or 10-year period. Other penalties and punishments are also meted out according to Virginia law in connection with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. At Woodbridge & Coleman, we discuss all potential outcomes with DUI clients and fight to protect your rights. Our goal is to vigorously defend your interests and obtain acquittal if possible. We also work hard to minimize the effects of any conviction you face.

Contact DUI attorneys in Fredericksburg, Virginia who understand the special concerns of repeat offenders

At Woodbridge, Coleman & Stevens, P.C. Attorneys at Law we provide vigorous defense of those arrested for DUI, including repeat offenders. We provide a free initial consultation for DUI cases. Our office can be reached by public transport, including bus. Located in downtown Fredericksburg, Virginia, our office is convenient to the courthouses. Contact us online or call us at 540-373-5300. We serve clients throughout the city of Fredericksburg and Caroline, Spotsylvania, Stafford, King George, Prince William, Fairfax, Culpeper, Westmoreland and Hanover counties.