Lake Charles DWI/DUI Lawyer

Lake Charles DWI/DUI Attorney

Driving while intoxicated (DWI) or Driving under the influence (DUI) is a criminal offense that can have serious consequences on your life, including fines, imprisonment, and the suspension of your driver’s license. Repeat DWI/DUI offenses can bring even harsher penalties. If you are arrested for a DWI/DUI, you need to begin working with a Lake Charles DWI/DUI lawyer immediately. The right attorney could prevent the worst of your criminal penalties, or even prevent a conviction.

A DWI/DUI conviction can have a significant effect on your freedom, future, and reputation. You should not face these charges alone.

McHale Law Firm: Aggressive and Compassionate Legal Representation

Protecting your future from a DWI/DUI conviction is essential, whether you are a business professional, a college student, or a commercially licensed driver. Your future opportunities in education and employment can rely on a skillful defense. At McHale Law Firm, we can help.

Since 1959, our firm has supported southwest Louisiana. Michael McHale has 30 years of legal experience, primarily working in criminal defense law. He provides aggressive criminal defense while ensuring an empathetic approach to working with clients. Along each step of the way, he makes sure you are involved in the process and learn about the legal process you are going through. We work diligently to represent your interests and defend your future in a DWI/DUI case.

Driving Under the Influence in Lake Charles and Louisiana

Alcohol is considered one of the top four contributing causes to crashes in the state. However, a DWI/DUI or driving under the influence (DUI) charge can include impairment by alcohol or controlled substances.

Not all DWI/DUI charges mean there was a car accident, but some do. Unfortunately, car accidents that involve alcohol can result in serious injuries and fatalities. In Calcasieu Parish, six of the 28 fatal crashes involved alcohol in 2024, or 21.43%. In comparison, alcohol was involved in 6.67% of suspected injury crashes and 2.41% of property damage crashes.

The Basics of DWI/DUI Laws

The charges for a DWI/DUI or DUI occur when someone operates any vehicle while impaired, such as a motor vehicle, aircraft, or watercraft. Impairment occurs when any of the following is true:

1. The driver was impaired by alcohol.
2. The driver had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
3. The driver was impaired by a controlled substance or combination of substances, or both alcohol and controlled substances.

You can be arrested, charged, and even convicted of a DWI/DUI even if your BAC is under the legal limit due to these definitions. Certain drivers have a much lower BAC legal limit, such as those underage or those with commercial licenses.

The Consequences of a DWI/DUI Conviction

A first-time DWI/DUI can have serious consequences in its most basic form, but certain elements can worsen the penalties. This includes causing an injury or someone’s death while driving impaired, or driving impaired with a child in the vehicle. Another aggravating factor is when the driver’s BAC is especially high, such as 0.15%.

Even when there are no aggravating factors, a first-time DWI/DUI can still result in a mandatory minimum sentence of ten days in jail, up to six months, and a fine between $300 and $1,000. Repeat DWI/DUIs come with harsher penalties and also mean that judges are less likely to be lenient. Repeat DWI/DUI convictions can lead to years in prison and thousands of dollars in fines.

There are also other consequences of a DWI/DUI conviction beyond criminal penalties. Conviction can also lead to license suspension, increased insurance rates, the installation and financial upkeep of an ignition interlock device, and civil liability for harm caused to other people.

Having a criminal record because of a DWI/DUI conviction can also make it harder to get a job. This can be especially damaging to college students who have yet to establish a significant employment history.

FAQs

Q: How Much Is a DWI/DUI Lawyer in Louisiana?

A: The cost of a DWI/DUI lawyer in Louisiana depends on the case and the attorney. Most DWI/DUI attorneys charge an hourly rate, which may differ based on their experience in these cases, the complexity of your case, the resources your case requires, and the location of the attorney.

While an experienced attorney may have a higher rate, it is important to realize that a more experienced attorney may also be able to secure a more beneficial outcome, and more quickly.

Q: Can a DWI/DUI Be Dismissed in Louisiana?

A: Yes, a DWI/DUI can be dismissed in Louisiana, although it entirely depends on the specifics of your situation. You are more likely to secure a dismissal with the help of an experienced DWI/DUI attorney. An attorney can review the evidence against you, the facts of your traffic stop and arrest, and other factors. If there was no probable cause for the traffic stop, evidence was contaminated, or your other rights were violated, there may be insufficient evidence for the case.

Q: Can You Hire an Attorney to Appear for You in DWI/DUI Court?

A: Whether or not an attorney can appear for you in DWI/DUI court without your presence will depend on the specifics of your case, but you can always hire a DWI/DUI lawyer to represent you in court. You have the right to be present for preliminary motions or actions without the jury present, but are not required to. However, there are certain parts of the case you are required to be present for. Your attorney can determine when your presence is required.

Q: Do I Need a Lawyer for a DWI/DUI in Louisiana?

A: You need a lawyer if you are facing DWI/DUI charges in Louisiana. A lawyer gives you the greatest chance at a beneficial outcome, such as a plea deal for reduced charges or having the case against you dismissed. Just because you are arrested for a DWI/DUI doesn’t necessarily mean you will be convicted, and the support of a lawyer can help immensely. A skilled lawyer can also walk you through each step, helping you understand your options and providing support.

Hire a DWI/DUI Lawyer in Lake Charles

The consequences of a DWI/DUI can ruin your entire future. You need a dedicated Lake Charles DWI/DUI attorney by your side to create a strong defense. Contact McHale Law Firm today and see how we can help you or your child navigate a DWI/DUI charge.