While DUIs are among the more common crimes prosecuted in Alexandria, they can still carry serious consequences. Anyone found guilty of driving a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol could face confinement in jail, heavy fines, and the loss of driving privileges. If you have been accused of committing this offense, you can rely on a skilled Alexandria DUI lawyer to contest your charges by scrutinizing the evidence and why you were arrested and how you were tested for intoxication.
Facing a DUI charge without strong legal defense could lead to unfavorable outcomes that could jeopardize your future. Mersberger Criminal Defense, PLLC, brings more than 20 years of experience managing complex criminal charges, including DUIs. Our founding attorney, Dennis M. Mersberger, focuses on criminal law and is highly rated by Martindale-Hubbell for his ethical standards and legal acumen.
Every year since 2019, he has been recognized by Super Lawyers for the high-quality support and proven outcomes that he delivers. * His work is not limited to state criminal law. He brings many years of experience as a defense attorney for federal cases, and his advocacy has led to the Supreme Court of Virginia overturning a lower court’s decision.
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1-703-574-3305In 2024, Virginia saw 293 alcohol-related fatalities, and Alexandria recorded nine drunk driving deaths that year. These figures contribute to Alexandria’s annual crime rate of 39.65 per 1,000 residents. In Virginia, a conviction for driving under the influence can lead to the loss of driving privileges for one year for a first DUI conviction and a requirement to install an ignition interlock device. Someone may be considered in violation of the state law when their blood alcohol content is 0.08% or higher under a permissive inference.
Lower limits apply to drivers under the age of 21 and operators of commercial vehicles. Arrests often occur when law enforcement sees suspicious driving in the Southwest Quadrant, Alexandria Historical District, Old Town, or elsewhere in Alexandria. After an arrest, suspects are typically transported to the magistrate at the William G. Truesdale Adult Detention Center at 2001 Mill Road here in Alexandria.
DUI charges are unique from other crimes because police typically happen upon suspects rather than being called to the scene of a crime. While law enforcement is tasked with protecting the public, they also are required to protect the constitutional rights of people in Alexandria. If they pull someone over or arrest them without a valid reason, that could represent a violation of someone’s rights.
Law enforcement must also administer field sobriety tests properly and only use properly calibrated breathalyzers. If they do not carefully preserve and document evidence, that could invalidate the findings. A defense attorney can explore whether any of these key steps were not followed. Positive outcomes to a DUI case could include dropped or reduced charges.
Anyone facing DUI charges should contact an Alexandria DUI attorney as soon as possible. Virginia’s DUI laws carry harsh penalties, and the decision to hire a DUI lawyer can protect you from the most serious DUI penalties under the law.
A defense attorney can:
An attorney can examine the evidence to find weaknesses in the state’s case that can support your defense. By reviewing bodycam footage and following the chain of custody, a defense lawyer can take decisive steps to shield their client from potentially life-altering DUI penalties.
Attorney fees vary widely, and the cost of someone’s legal defense depends on the lawyer’s hourly or flat rate. When attorneys bill by the hour, they typically require an advance fee deposit. More experienced attorneys with a track record of success typically charge higher fees than less experienced lawyers. The cost of legal defense is not insignificant, but it can protect defendants from the long-term consequences of a criminal conviction.
Your attorney can take steps to have a DUI dismissed in Virginia. This typically happens when prosecutors no longer have the evidence or witnesses they need to move forward with charges or when a strong defense strategy leads to evidence being suppressed or the credibility of evidence being questioned. Prosecutors may seek to resolve the case efficiently and dismiss the charges.
Jail time is not mandatory for every first DUI conviction in Virginia. However, mandatory jail sentences apply in certain situations, including when a driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.15% or higher. A BAC between 0.15% and 0.20% carries a mandatory minimum of five days in jail, while a BAC above 0.20% carries a mandatory minimum of 10 days. Other aggravating factors can also increase the risk of incarceration.
You should hire an attorney as soon as possible if you are facing criminal charges. A DUI is a serious offense, and a conviction can lead to confinement in jail and the loss of driving privileges for a year. When you hire an attorney, you place your case in the hands of a trusted advocate who is focused on protecting your rights and interests. Defense attorneys can question the evidence, gather new evidence, and take cases to trial when necessary.
Facing a DUI charge without experienced legal representation can put your freedom, driving privileges, career, and future at risk. Dennis M. Mersberger has spent more than two decades defending individuals accused of DUI and other criminal offenses.
Mr. Mersberger focuses on criminal law and puts considerable time and resources into managing cases. He is dedicated to providing personal attention and clear communication with his clients so they fully understand their legal options and the status of their case at all times. Contact Mersberger Criminal Defense, PLLC, today to discuss the details of your DUI case.
*Awards and recognitions are not a guarantee of success. Criteria vary by organization.
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