North Carolina DWI 2nd Offense

Did you know that if you are arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) in the state of North Carolina and have a prior DWI conviction on your record, you will face even more severe penalties then you did for your first conviction? Indeed, under state law, the penalties for a North Carolina DWI 2nd offense can include hefty fines, a lengthy license suspension, and even jail time.

State law considers anyone who has been convicted of DWI within the past seven years to be a repeat offender. As a result, judges tend to show little leniency to those who have a record of drinking and driving.

The exact penalties for a DWI 2nd offense depend on a number of factors, such as the driver's blood alcohol content (BAC), number of prior convictions, and whether he or she was transporting a minor at the time of the arrest or was involved in a serious auto accident. After considering this information, the crime will then be classified into one of five levels, with a level 1 offense reserved for the most serious cases.

Although most DWI cases are classified as misdemeanor offenses, you can be charged with a felony if you are considered a habitual DWI offender (meaning you have multiple DWI convictions on your criminal record). In such cases, you may spend up to two years behind bars and/or permanently lose your driving privileges.

Of course, the penalties for DWI are far less severe if you are charged with a level 2, 3, 4, or 5 offense. Rather than sentencing you to jail, the judge may allow you to perform community service as an alternate form of punishment. You may also be eligible for a limited driver’s license which allows you to travel to and from work, school, and other court-approved activities.

As you can see, the consequences of a North Carolina DWI 2nd offense can be quite serious. In addition to losing your license and spending time in jail, your conviction will remain on your criminal record indefinitely, which means it will haunt you long after the terms of your sentences are complete.

The good news is that with help from an experienced DWI defense attorney, you may be able to reduce or eliminate the charges against you. In many cases, a strong defense strategy can be used to challenge the evidence against you and help you avoid a devastating DWI conviction.

To discuss your case with a skilled legal representative in your area, finish a free online case evaluation today to find a law firm that specializes in DWI defense. Remember, with all of the penalties you face if convicted, there's no better time than now to start planning your defense strategy.