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Oregon DWI / DUI Lawyer

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It should be noted that in Oregon, DUI/DWI laws are some of the toughest in the country. DUI or DWI apprehensions in Oregon produce two separate and distinct cases. One is a criminal court case where you are given the right to defend yourself, and where the facts and details of the case are argued. If you choose, you can hire a lawyer to help you earn the acquittal you deserve. At this hearing, corresponding penalties are imposed including jail time, fines, and obligatory community services or classes, depending on the circumstances involved. Requisite ignition interlock devices are also fairly common and may be imposed.

The second case is an administrative action conducted by the DMV, and it is here where your license can be suspended or revoked. Suspensions range from ninety days to three years, and you may face this kind of action if you fail or reject chemical testing after being pulled over for suspicion of drinking and driving. Under the Implied Consent Law, drivers who refuse alcohol testing and receive an intent to suspend notice have ten days to challenge the suspension by requesting a hearing.

If you get pulled over by police officers for suspicion of DUI or DWI, the first step is to cooperate with officers at the scene as much as possible. Failure to cooperate can result in additional legal charges, which may complicate things for you. Once you are pulled over, expect a field sobriety test. This may be followed by chemical testing that may include breathalyzer exams, blood, and urine tests. Should you refuse testing in Oregon, you automatically lose your license for a year.

What You Are Facing
DWI and DUI are serious, long-lasting offenses that are noted on your permanent record. Such offenses can potentially limit your career and educational options. In the state of Oregon, expect to spend over a $1,000 in fines if you are convicted. You may also be subject to jail or probation time of one year, and, if so ordered, you may be forced to attend driver programs during probationary periods. Since Oregon imposes some of the toughest DWI/DUI laws, it is important to locate an experienced Oregon DUI attorney.

A personal attorney may be able to refer you to some of the most qualified DWI/DUI lawyers available to serve you. It is best to create a list of names, research caseloads, reputations, and history, and contact each prospect to set up consultations. Finances should be considered as well. Most attorneys do not charge a fee for consultation services. If able to build a solid case, your attorney may be willing to set up a payment schedule with you. A confident, experienced lawyer can walk you through hearing processes and attempt to reduce your charge to a DUI if convicted.

Not only does an experienced DWI/DUI lawyer understand police officer requirements when conducting sobriety tests, but he or she also has knowledge of the evidence necessary for winning your case. If a police officer pulls over a driver without reasonable cause, a DWI/DUI case may be overturned. Similarly, if the police officer pulls a driver over for reasons that do not significantly relate to DWI/DUI charges, such as speeding, charges may be dropped. Overall, when reenacting the event for your attorney, be sure to include all details, even those you may think are irrelevant to the case. Experienced lawyers find ways to use information in your favor.

It is always in your best interest to submit to blood and urine testing. Even if your blood alcohol content is above the legal limits of .08 percent, chances are your attorney can make adjustments to argue in your favor. For example, health records may indicate that you have a blood related illness, impacting the validity of test results. Even if convicted, a qualified lawyer can work with to reduce penalties, cut fines, and uphold your rights.