Dekalb County DUI Lawyer
Many people may have heard of both DUI, “driving under the influence”, and DWI, “driving while intoxicated”, and may think they are the same. While they are similar, these two criminal offenses can also be different depending on the location of which the offense took place. Both DWI and DUI are very serious criminal offenses and can be punishable by jail time, fines, and license revocation. However, while more commonly associated with drinking alcohol while operating a vehicle, these offenses are not limited to alcohol. You are at risk of being charged with a DUI or DWI if you have consumed drug related substances, prescribed or otherwise, while operating a motor vehicle. Many people do not fully understand these charges and the impact that it will have on a defendant’s life.
In several states, DWI charges are usually associated with the use of alcohol while driving and being over the states’ legal limit according to a blood alcohol consent test or urine test. Meanwhile DUI’s are usually associated with both drug and alcohol related offenses. It is best to understand the difference in your state to be able to best understand a charge, if you happen to be charged with either criminal offense.
Acronyms such as “OWI” and “OUI” are also used in some states. This classification makes a clear distinction between physically driving the vehicle, or simply sitting in a vehicle that is on or off and being under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The “O” in these charges represent “operating”. Not every state makes this distinction.
In some states, even if you do pass a BAC test, but fail a field sobriety test you may still be charged with DWI because the officer may feel you are in no position to operate a vehicle in your current state. Also, if you pass a breathalyzer, an officer may still be able to use that information against you in court. It can be assumed that you were not under the influence of alcohol, but drugs.
No matter the reason, if you or someone you know has been charged with a DUI or DWI it is important that you speak with a skilled criminal defense attorney that will be able to review the facts of your case and build your defense. While it may be easy to be charged, with the right attorney, it may be easy to have the case turn in your favor. Contact a Dekalb County DUI lawyer as soon as possible.
Contact The Lynch Law Group for their insight into criminal defense and DUI offenses.
