What is Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Louisiana
In the State of Louisiana, driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotic substances is referred to as a “Driving While Intoxicated” or DWI. Other states might use the term “Driving Under The Influence” or DUI.
These charges might include the possibility of both administrative and criminal penalties upon arrest or conviction. Sound legal advice following an arrest for a DWI is critical. After careful review of your particular case, our Team can provide you an evaluation, and tell you how your individual case might fare in the criminal courts and/or administrative license suspension hearing.
Expert legal representation and counsel immediately following arrest is necessary. We are including an outline of possible penalties applicable to adult offenders with a valid, private driver’s license. Please note that these penalties are not necessarily the same in the case of minors, commercial drivers, and adults in violation of zero tolerance laws.
Administrative Penalties
- First offense DWI in Louisiana results in administrative license suspension of ninety (90) days.
- Reinstatement following first offense DWI not contingent upon use of ignition interlock device in Louisiana, but may require attendance and completion of alcohol/substance abuse assessment and education program.
Criminal Penalties
- Convictions of first offense DWI in Louisiana have a mandatory minimum period of incarceration of two (2) days, with potential to serve out this mandatory sentence in the form of community service. However, in first offense cases, maximum penalty faced is six (6) months.
- Fines for first offense convictions are not more than $1,000 in Louisiana, but fine amount does not cover court costs, fees, and other surcharges incurred during completion of terms of sentence or during reinstatement of license.
- Convictions of first offense DWI in Louisiana influence charges and sentencing in future DWI arrests for a period of ten (10) years.
Getting Timely Legal Help Is Important
For more information regarding a first offense DWI defense in Louisiana applicable to your case, including the specific nature of your case, and whether or not the opportunity for reduction of charges into lesser criminal, or non-criminal convictions as a plea option is possible, consult our Team right away. We are here to help.
Remember, the information we are providing here is not intended as legal advice; each case is different. Instead, we seek to provide you with a general idea of what happens in the often complicated legal process.
Remember, when facing criminal charges the level of experience your lawyer has matters. Regan Law can provide legal guidance for your circumstances. Contact us for a free initial consultation.