Aggressively Defending Against DWI / DUI And Driving-Related Offenses
Arkansas police and state troopers are committed to keeping our state’s roads safe, which is why they strictly enforce DUI / DWI and traffic laws at all times. If you are pulled over for one of these offenses, your first instinct may be to pay your traffic ticket or plead guilty to a drunk driving offense. Acting on this instinct may cost you money, your driver’s license, jail time, or even your job.
Get the skilled legal advice you need promptly. As an experienced attorney I, Wesley Rhodes, Attorney at Law, can provide an in-depth explanation of the likely consequences of your options so that you are well-informed before you act. I will use my substantial knowledge of court procedures and laws to defend your rights in Little Rock.
Talk to me today about your case. You can reach me by completing my contact form or calling to schedule your free case review.
What Does A DWI Charge Mean?
According to Arkansas Code § 5-65-103, it is “unlawful and punishable as provided in this chapter for a person who is intoxicated to operate or be in actual physical control of a motorboat on the waters of this state or a motor vehicle.” When the statute says “intoxicated”, it does not just mean by alcohol. Intoxicated is defined as “influenced or affected by the ingestion of alcohol, a controlled substance, any intoxicant, or any combination of alcohol, a controlled substance, or an intoxicant, to such a degree that the driver’s reactions, motor skills, and judgment are substantially altered and the driver, therefore, constitutes a clear and substantial danger of physical injury or death to himself or herself or another person.”
Do I Have To Blow Into The Breathalyzer?
Everyone that operates an automobile in Arkansas is deemed to have given consent for their urine, saliva, and/or blood to be tested for alcohol concentration. This is known as “implied consent”. There are procedures in place for this, and if the arresting officer does not follow the correct procedure — they may be violating your rights (even your constitutional rights) and your case could be dismissed. This is one of the many reasons you should retain counsel to fight your DWI or DUI charge.
What Can Happen If I Get A DWI / DUI?
Aside from non-judicial effects like job loss, and administrative effects like license suspension, the penalty ranges for a DWI / DUI in Arkansas are:
- Up to one year in jail and up to $1,000 in fines for a first offense of DWI / DUI
- Up to one year in jail and up to $3,000 in fines for a second offense of DWI / DUI within five years of the first offense
- Up to one year in jail and up to $5,000 in fines for a third offense of DWI / DUI within five years of the first offense
- Up to six years in prison and up to $5,000 in fines for a fourth offense of DWI / DUI within five years of the first offense
- Up to ten years in prison and up to $5,000 in fines for a fifth offense of DWI / DUI within five years of the first offense
I Am Committed To Minimizing The Consequences Of Your Charges
Making smart choices can help you limit the impact these charges have on driving privileges, car insurance rates and your criminal record:
- In Arkansas, traffic violations can add points to your license, increasing the likelihood that your insurance rates will rise.
- You may also have to pay steep fines to resolve a traffic ticket or drunk driving charge.
- DWI convictions also carry penalties that could include license suspensions, revocations or permanent charges on your criminal record.
These are just a few of the unintended consequences you could face when you represent yourself in a driving-related matter. When you consult with me, I will study the events leading up to your arrest or your traffic ticket.
Maneuvering around the Arkansas court system by yourself could result in spending extra time in jail and higher fees.
If Arkansas law enforcement violated your rights or failed to follow appropriate procedures, I will take the steps necessary to protect your future and your driving privileges. There are many procedural safeguards that police must obey and failure to do so can result in your case being dismissed. I am the aggressive advocate you want by your side when you are facing a criminal charge or driving violation.
Learn Your Options Today
I offer no-cost consultations about speeding tickets, suspended licenses, drunk driving charges and other issues to all potential clients. Arrange your meeting with a knowledgeable lawyer when you email or call my firm at 501-301-4591. Located in Little Rock, Arkansas.