In Washington, DC, driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense, and a conviction can impact your freedom, your license, your job, and your future. If you’ve been arrested for DUI, it’s critical to speak with an experienced DUI attorney in Washington, DC as soon as possible.
A first-time DUI conviction in DC can carry up to 180 days in jail, and in some cases, mandatory minimum jail time. Beyond jail time, you could face steep fines, a suspended license, and long-term increases in car insurance costs.
At Monument Legal, our Washington, DC DUI attorneys know how to fight these charges, challenge the evidence, and protect your rights. We’ll guide you through the process, clearly explain your options, and build a defense strategy that gives you the best chance of a positive outcome.
If you’ve been charged with a DC DUI, DWI, OWI, or any drunk driving offense, the decisions you make right now matter.
Hiring an experienced Washington, DC DUI and DWI attorney is one of the most important steps you can take. The best DUI lawyer Washington DC has to offer will know how to assess the strengths and weaknesses of your case, negotiate with prosecutors, and fight to protect your rights at every stage.
Your attorney can challenge flawed evidence, advocate for reduced penalties, and guide you through the legal process with confidence. Whether it means working out a favorable plea or taking your case to trial, skilled legal representation can make all the difference.
At Monument Legal, our criminal defense attorneys are courtroom-tested and ready to aggressively defend you against DUI, DWI, or OWI charges. We’ve helped countless clients avoid jail time, save their licenses, and protect their futures.
Schedule your free consultation with a trusted DUI attorney in Washington DC, and let us help you move forward.
DC law distinguishes between DUI and OWI:
Every person arrested for drunk driving is charged with both offenses, and the proof for both charges is very similar. In some circumstances, especially for out-of-state drivers, an OWI conviction will not carry the same collateral consequences as a DUI conviction.
In Washington, DC, penalties for a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) conviction can vary depending on factors like prior offenses and the level of intoxication. These penalties may include:
These penalties can vary depending on factors such as blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level, any aggravating circumstances, and the discretion of the court. However, your odds of a favorable outcome increase if you are facing your first DUI. While the specific facts and circumstances of your case will impact the end result, prosecutors are much more likely to offer favorable plea agreements and diversion programs to first-time offenders.
DC law imposes mandatory minimum jail sentences for repeat DUI offenders. Second offenses carry 10 days of mandatory time, third offenses carry 15 days, and fourth or more carry 30 days. Our lawyers know that no one wants to do even a single day in jail, and we are creative in finding ways to avoid mandatory jail time for our clients.
Often referred to as “baby DUIs,” minors charged with drinking and driving are treated differently those over 21 years of age. While the legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) limit for adults is .08, minors who operate a vehicle with any detectable amount of alcohol in their systems are guilty of DUI under DC law. Because they are under 25, however, minors may be eligible for diversion under the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA).
Driving under the influence of marijuana is treated no differently under the law than DUI alcohol. However, since marijuana affects the body differently than alcohol, it can be more challenging for officers to investigate marijuana-related DUIs and harder for prosecutors to prove in court.
Refusing to take the breathalyzer test does not have any additional criminal penalties in a DUI case. In fact, without a BAC result, prosecutors may have a more difficult time proving that a defendant is guilty of DUI. The downside, however, is that the DC DMV will revoke your driver’s license for an additional six months if the arresting officer can prove that you refused the breath test.
Diversion is an agreement that your Washington, DC DUI attorney can negotiate with the assigned prosecutor. In DUI matters there are generally two forms of diversions available. The first, and most common, is the Deferred Sentencing Agreement. The second, is the Deferred Prosecution Agreement. Both types of agreements may result in your case being dismissed. Typically, these agreements require you to complete community service and DUI-related traffic programs. Both agreements may have a direct impact on your driving privileges, security clearances or even immigration status. Make sure to discuss these options with your attorney.
In Washington, DC, to convict someone of a DUI (Driving Under the Influence), the prosecutor typically needs to prove several elements beyond a reasonable doubt. These elements usually include:
Any DUI, DWI or OWI conviction will cause a driver with a CDL to lose their license. In addition, entering into a Deferred Sentencing Agreement (DSA) can also cause you to lose your CDL and potentially your employment. There are creative ways your Washington, DC DUI attorney can assist in avoiding this outcome. If you have a CDL and are arrested on DUI charges in Washington, DC contact a DUI defense attorney immediately.
If you or a loved one, are facing DUI charges in Washington, DC, consulting with an experienced DUI lawyer is essential. An experienced DUI trial attorney can help you understand your options, build a defense strategy, and navigate the legal system effectively. Contact Monument Legal today for a consultation and personalized legal assistance tailored to your case.
We have extensive experience handling DUI charges, and are familiar with the judges and the prosecutors. In addition, we will be by your side every step of the way, keeping you informed, answering your questions, and addressing your concerns. Our one goal in every case is to get our clients the best possible outcome. We care about your case and we care about you.
Monument Legal consistently provides excellent results for their clients, including: