Your New Orleans Law Firm for Drunk Driving Defense
New Orleans is a city known for its tourism and nightlife, making DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) cases more common. A conviction for an alcohol-related driving offense can lead to harsh consequences, including fines, jail time, and a lasting impact on your career and reputation. However, not all arrests lead to convictions, and there are defenses that can help you avoid or reduce penalties.
If you’re facing a DWI in New Orleans, it’s essential to have an experienced drunk driving attorney to protect your rights. At Phillips Law, we’re here to advocate for you and help minimize or potentially avoid the penalties that come with a DWI in New Orleans.
DUI and DWI Penalties in Louisiana
In Louisiana, DUI/DWI penalties increase with each offense, and each level of offense comes with serious repercussions. Here’s an overview of the penalties if you’re charged with a DWI in New Orleans:
First Offense DUI/DWI
For a first-time DWI in New Orleans, you may face a fine of $300 to $1,000 and 10 days to six months in jail. Sentences may sometimes be suspended if probation requirements are met. Probation conditions include:
- Serving 48 hours in jail or completing 32 hours of community service.
- Completing court-ordered substance abuse and driver improvement programs.
If your BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) was 0.20% or higher, fines start at $750, you must serve a mandatory 48 hours in jail, your license will be suspended for two years, and you’ll be required to have an ignition interlock device on your car for 12 months after the suspension.
Second Offense DUI/DWI
For a second DWI in New Orleans, penalties include fines ranging from $750 to $1,000 and jail time of 30 days to six months, with a minimum of 48 hours served. Under certain conditions, the sentence may be suspended if you:
- Complete 15 days in jail or 240 hours of community service.
- Participate in a substance abuse and driver improvement program.
A BAC over 0.20% will increase the fine to $1,000, require 96 hours of jail time, and result in a four-year license suspension.
Third Offense DUI/DWI
A third DWI in New Orleans comes with a $2,000 fine and one to five years in prison, with a minimum of one year served unless you qualify for a drug division probation program. Other conditions include:
- 240 hours of community service.
- Completion of a driver improvement program and obtaining employment.
- Evaluation by the Louisiana Department of Health, which may require a substance abuse treatment plan.
Fourth or Subsequent DUI/DWI Offense
A fourth or subsequent DWI in New Orleans results in a $5,000 fine and a prison sentence of 10 to 30 years. If the offender has completed a prior drug division program, at least three years of the sentence must be served. Otherwise, two years must be served, and the remaining sentence may be suspended under supervised probation. Additional conditions include 320 hours of community service and mandatory substance abuse treatment.
To find out if you will face jail time, you can read our blog: DWI in Louisiana: Will you face jail time?
Protect Your Future with a New Orleans DWI Attorney
A DWI in New Orleans can lead to significant criminal and civil penalties, but with the right defense, you may be able to reduce or dismiss charges. At Phillips Law, we are dedicated to helping clients understand their options and build a strong defense. Contact us today at 504-434-7000 or visit our website to schedule a confidential consultation. Let us help you protect your future against the consequences of a DWI in New Orleans.
