Suffolk DUI Attorney
Helping Protect Your Rights
A DUI (driving under the influence) or a DWI (driving while intoxicated) allegation can be devastating. Many people falsely assume that this is a minor, forgettable crime.
In reality, DWI charges can carry an impact that lasts for years. They can affect various areas of your life, including your freedom, relationships, and even your career. Even if you are found not guilty, the accusation alone can damage your reputation.
If you are a Suffolk resident facing DUI charges, the team at The Law Offices of Daniel J. Miller is here to help. With years of experience in criminal defense, our lawyers have the knowledge to navigate the complexities of your case. We understand that criminal allegations are overwhelming, and we are committed to protecting your rights and advocating for your best interests.
By choosing us, you can trust that you have a dedicated team behind you, fighting for your freedom and working tirelessly to preserve your reputation.
Contact us online today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help defend you against your DWI accusations.
Penalties for a First-Offense DWI in Virginia
The state has strict penalties for driving while intoxicated, and these laws apply to alcohol, illegal drugs, and even doctor-prescribed medicines.
Possible penalties for a first-time DWI in Virginia include:
- Up to 1 in jail
- Fines of up to $2,500
- License suspension for up to 1 year
- Mandatory attendance at alcohol education courses
Every criminal case is different. With our legal guidance, you may be able to reduce or even avoid the consequences.
Penalties for a Second-Offense DWI in Virginia
If convicted of a second DWI, a defendant faces:
- Fines as high as $2,500
- Up to 1 year of jail time
- Driver's license suspension for 3 years
Additionally, the offender must install an ignition interlock device on their vehicle. This mechanism prevents you from driving if it detects any alcohol on your breath.
Penalties for Three or More DWI Offenses in Virginia
- Fines up to $1,000
- 1 to 5 years in state prison
- Indefinite driver’s license suspension
Aggravating Factors in a DUI Case
DWI sentencing depends on other factors as well, such as the alleged offender's blood alcohol level. Judges also consider whether anyone was injured or killed in the incident, and they will examine any property damage.
These circumstances will make penalties even harsher, and they could raise the offense to a felony level.
Refusing a Breathalyzer Test in Suffolk
Each legal driver in Virginia participates in “implied consent,” whether they know it or not. Essentially, implied consent means that by operating a motor vehicle on public roads, you agree to submit to DWI testing when pulled over by law enforcement. This legal mandate applies when the police reasonable suspect that you are driving under the influence.
If you refuse to test, you can suffer immediate consequences, such as a driver's license suspension. Authorities can impose more consequences depending on the circumstances. For example, if you have previous DUI convictions or caused an accident, refusal penalties can be far more severe.
If you find yourself in this situation, call our team to help you understand your rights and options.
Read Our Client Testimonials
At The Law Offices of Daniel J. Miller, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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- M. War
Unfortunately I have had to use The most professional courteous reliable and hard working Law Offices of Daniel J Miller. Upon the arrival at the start of my case to the departure at the end of my case, Mr. Miller and Mr. Weaver from the start of consultation knew what I was up against and delivered more than I expected from any lawyer in Virginia to do for me. I had an on going custody battle and now have my son full time and out of harm's way. I am extremely pleased with the services I was provided. I HIGHLY recommend this firm if you want the best possible outcome for your case.
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I hired Mr. Miller initially for a bond hearing . I decided to retain his services for the case itself . I was facing two felony charges as well as a failure to appear charge . While there were witnesses that were able to identify me, I walked out of Virginia Beach Courthouse with only a misdemeanor thanks to Mr. Miller's representation . I work in the healthcare profession and expressed to Mr. Miller the importance of avoiding a felony charge and he made it happen. I am forever grateful and will highly recommend him . Mr. Miller will always represent myself as well as family members if need be in the future . Again thank you Mr. Miller for using your knowledge to keep me from being a convicted felon and also saving my career.- C. Dickens
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Mr. Miller and his team worked diligently on my case and I am forever truly greatly. It was a long process but with prayer and fasting, I had faith in Mr. Miller and his team to get the results that I prayed for. They were straight forward and very patient at the same time. My husband is the one who search for lawyers/attorneys and Mr. Miller was the first and only choice. I can't say enough how grateful I am for all your hard work and fight that you did behind the scenes. God bless you Mr. Miller and your whole team.- M. Sellers
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- T. Neilan
Excellent Attorney!
Daniel J. Miller is an absolute pleasure to speak with and conduct business with! Very intelligent, knowledgeable of the law, friendly, and professional! I was very pleased with the outcome of my case and will be hiring him for my future legal needs.
I highly recommend Daniel J. Miller for your legal issues and needs.Don't let cost be a detractant, you get what you pay for. And Premium Representation comes with a premium cost, but is well worth it!
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I was very nervous when I had to go to court over a traffic accident I was recently involved in. Dan put me at ease almost immediately with his knowledge and tenacity. By the time Dan was finished questioning the other people involved in the accident I did not even have to testify (which was the major source of my nervousness). My innocence was clear to everyone in the room, thanks to Dan. Would definitely use him again and recommend him to others. Aside from his performance during the hearing he was very easy to contact and always kept appointments with me. He also answered all of my questions patiently and with understanding.- Client
A Track Record of Success
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Protective Order
Our client's estranged wife had filed a protective order to prohibit him from having contact with her to gain exclusive use and possession of the home. We were successful in showing that she had motive to fabricate and that had consulted with an attorney regarding getting our client out of her house days before filing the request for a protective order.
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Pre Litigation Defense – Rape
Our client was the respondent of a protective order wherein the petitioner alleged that she was raped. She sought a two-year protective order and was seeking to have detectives assist in securing warrants against him. We suspect that the admissions made on cross-examination by the alleged victim at the hearing will prevent the Commonwealth from bringing any charges.
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Protective Order
Our client's estranged wife had filed a protective order to prohibit him from having contact with her to gain exclusive use and possession of the home. We were successful in showing that she had motive to fabricate and that had consulted with an attorney regarding getting our client out of her house days before filing the request for a protective order.
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Driving Under the Influence 4th Offense– Bond Hearing
Our client was charged with fourth offense driving under the influence. Based upon his age and pre-existing health conditions, we were able to show that jail was an unsafe place. Our client was released on house arrest conditioned upon his wearing SCRAM bracelet which tracks his location and ensures that he does not consume alcohol.
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Violation of Protective Order – Appeal
Our client was under a protective order to have no hostile contact with his family. The Commonwealth alleged that based upon several text exchanges that he had threatened his teenage children. Without the assistance of counsel, he received 90 days of active incarceration in lower Court. On appeal we were able to reduce his confinement to 24 hours – time served.
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Breaking and Entering with Intent to Commit Misdemeanor
Our client was charged with breaking and entering with intent to commit a misdemeanor, but the Commonwealth agreed to dismiss the charge at the preliminary hearing stage against our client who suffered severe and debilitating mental illness.