Alexandria, VA DUI Defense Lawyer

Reliable DUI Defense Attorneys in Alexandria, Virginia

If you have been accused of driving under the influence, you need legal representation. A conviction of this offense in Virginia could come with lasting consequences, ranging from incarceration, fines, and the loss of your driving privileges. To protect your rights, consider working with an Alexandria DUI defense attorney who can pinpoint the best legal strategy given your unique circumstances.

At Arrested for a DUI, LLC, we are well-versed in DUI defense. We can advise you of how to respond to these charges, taking your needs into account. Our experienced attorneys are available 24/7, so do not hesitate to reach out if you are facing drunk driving charges.

Drunk Driving Laws in Virginia

In Virginia, operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs is illegal and carries serious consequences. A first-time DUI conviction can result in jail time of up to one year, a fine ranging from $250 to $2,000, and a driver's license suspension of up to 12 months.

In addition, a court may require attendance at an alcohol safety action program, community service, and installation of an ignition interlock device. Even a single DUI arrest can lead to the loss of employment opportunities, increased insurance premiums, and a permanent criminal record.

When Is DUI a Felony in Alexandria?

In Alexandria, DUI becomes a felony offense primarily when an individual commits three or more DUI convictions within a 10-year period. Felony DUI convictions expose defendants to significantly harsher punishments, including mandatory active prison sentences, higher fines, longer license revocations, and the requirement to serve time in a state facility. A felony also carries collateral consequences such as difficulty securing housing, professional license suspensions, and loss of certain civil rights.

DUI Defense Strategies in Alexandria, Virginia

There are several ways to fight a DUI charge in Alexandria. Our firm can explore different defenses tailored to your situation, pursuing reduced or dismissed charges.

Challenging the Traffic Stop

The foundation of any strong DUI defense often lies in the legality of the traffic stop. Police officers must have a valid reason—known as reasonable suspicion—to initiate a stop. If an officer lacked reasonable suspicion or observed no clear traffic violation, any evidence gathered thereafter may be subject to suppression.

Questioning Field Sobriety Tests

Field sobriety tests, such as the walk-and-turn or one-leg stand, can be unreliable indicators of impairment. Factors like uneven pavement, medical conditions, or nervousness can lead to poor performance. An attorney can examine whether the officer administered these tests correctly and whether the test environment was appropriate.

Attacking Chemical Test Results

Breath and blood tests provide strong evidence, but labs and devices are not infallible. A defense attorney can review maintenance and calibration records for breathalyzers, assess chain-of-custody procedures for blood samples, and explore whether delays in testing may have affected accuracy. Medical conditions—such as gastroesophageal reflux—can also interfere with breath-test readings.

Negotiating Plea Agreements

In certain cases, it may make sense to negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options. A skilled attorney can leverage weaknesses in the Commonwealth's case to seek plea deals that minimize jail time, preserve driving privileges, or enroll a client in diversion programs.

Presenting Alternative Explanations

Sometimes, behavior that appears to be impairment can have innocent explanations. Speech patterns, unsteadiness, or odor might result from fatigue, medical issues, or environmental factors. Highlighting these possibilities can create reasonable doubt about impairment.

Contact an Alexandria DUI Defense Attorney Today

Facing DUI charges in Alexandria can be overwhelming, but you do not have to face the court system alone. Contact our Alexandria DUI defense lawyers or call 301-479-5466 to set up a free consultation. Our team will review your case in detail and advise you on the best path forward.