DUI Attorneys Fairfax, Northern VA

Driving Under the influence (DUI) is a serious criminal offense in Virginia, and the penalties for a conviction can be severe.  If you have been charged with DUI, you need an experienced DUI attorney to help you.

Here is an overview of the DUI laws in Virginia:

1. Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits: In Virginia, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with narcotics in your system and/or a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher. Commercial drivers are subject to a lower BAC limit of .04%, and drivers under 21 years of age are prohibited from operating a vehicle with any amount of alcohol in their system.
2. Penalties for a First Offense: A first-offense DUI can result in a fine of up to $2,500, a license suspension of up to one year, and up to 12 months in jail. In addition, the offender may be required to complete an alcohol safety program and install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle.
3. Penalties for Subsequent Offenses: The penalties for subsequent DUI offenses increase in severity. For example, a second offense of DUI can result in a fine of up to $2,500, a license suspension of up to three years, and up to one year in jail. A third DUI is a felony offense, and can result in a fine of up to $5,000, a license suspension of up to three years, and up to five years in prison.
4. Implied Consent: Virginia has an "implied consent" law, which means that if you are suspected of driving under the influence, you are required to submit to a breath or blood test to determine your BAC. Refusing to take a BAC test is a separate offense and can result in an automatic license suspension and other penalties.
5. Aggravating Factors: In some cases, there may be aggravating factors that can result in enhanced penalties for a DUI conviction. For example, if the offender was driving with a BAC of .15% or higher, had a child in the vehicle at the time of the offense, or caused an accident resulting in injury or death, the penalties may be more severe, including mandatory jail time.

Virginia Code Section 18.2-266 to 273 discusses Driving Motor Vehicle, Etc., While Intoxicated.

DUI laws in Virginia are strict, and the penalties for a conviction can be severe. If you are facing DUI charges in Virginia, contact the DUI attorneys at General Counsel, P.C. to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome in your case.