Please note that DUI is a serious charge and the law is very complicated. We strongly advise you to contact an attorney to discuss the specific facts of your case. If you would like to discuss the case with our attorneys, please contact us at 434-972-9600.

What will happen if I get convicted?

In Virginia, DUI is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The maximum punishment if you are convicted for a first offense is a $2,500 fine, one year in jail, and suspension of driving privileges for one year. A convicted offender will be ordered to attend classes with the Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program (VASAP). The Court does have the authority to grant a restricted license for specific purposes like driving to work or school during the suspension period.

In addition, recent changes in Virginia laws have imposed mandatory minimum sentences for some first-time offenders who are convicted. Any offender with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .15 or higher will receive a mandatory jail sentence which cannot be suspended by the Court. These offenders will also be required to install an "ignition interlock" device on their cars for up to one year. There is also a mandatory jail sentence for any driver with children in the car at the time of the arrest.

Mandatory penalties are substantially higher for offenders with prior convictions for driving under the influence.

What can a lawyer do for me?

Under Virginia law, anyone charged with a crime can represent himself in court. Unlike simple laws (like trespassing), however, DUI laws are very complicated. Jail is a very real possibility for many offenders.

A lawyer can work to put you in the best possible position for either acquittal (being found not guilty) or some other favorable resolution. Before trial, the lawyer can review the facts of the case with the officer and the prosecutor to determine if the case is likely to lead to a conviction in court. For example, a lawyer can challenge the accuracy of the breathalyzer equipment if the prosecutor intends to use the results of evidence of guilt. Finally, even if the police and prosecutor can prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt, a lawyer can work to obtain the least stringent sentence possible.

What does your firm offer?

Our firm's lawyers have handled hundreds of DUI cases. We are familiar with the local prosecutors, judges, and police. We provide experienced, knowledgeable and discreet representation. We will investigate your case, defend your rights, and fight to ensure that your receive the best possible results. We will also be available to answer your questions. We practice in courts throughout Virginia.

At Davidson & Kitzmann, PLC, you will talk to lawyers. We never shuffle our clients off to paralegals and secretaries.

What will it cost?

Putting you in the best possible position when you face a DUI charge requires hard work and expertise. We prepare ourselves and you well for your day in court. We believe clients deserve this high level of representation, and accordingly, we cannot charge "bargain basement" rates for minimal representation.

We charge a minimum fee of $2000 for a first offense DUI. That fee may increase depending for complicated cases, repeat offenses, or cases with mandatory minimum sentences.