Defending Against DUI/DWI Charges in Alamance County

A DUI/DWI charge can have far-reaching consequences, from fines and license suspension to potential jail time. At Doby & Griffis Law, we have over 26 years of experience helping clients in Burlington, Mebane, and Graham fight impaired driving charges. Whether it’s your first offense or you’ve faced similar charges before, our attorneys provide straightforward advice and aggressive representation to protect your rights and minimize the impact on your life.

Interpreting DUI/DWI Charges in North Carolina

Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI) refers to operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of:

  • 0.08% or higher for drivers over 21.

  • 0.04% or higher for commercial drivers.

  • Any detectable BAC for drivers under 21 (zero tolerance policy).

DWI charges can also result from impairment due to drugs or other substances, even if BAC levels are below the legal limit.

Potential Penalties for DUI/DWI

The severity of penalties depends on factors such as prior convictions, the presence of aggravating circumstances (e.g., high BAC or reckless driving), and whether the offense caused injury or property damage. Common penalties include:

Fines

Ranging from several hundred to thousands of dollars.

Jail Time

If disputes arise, we represent your best interests during negotiations, mediation, or court proceedings.

License Suspension

Temporary or permanent loss of driving privileges.

Substance Abuse Programs

Completion of alcohol or drug education programs may be required.

How Doby & Griffis Law Can Help

Challenging Evidence

We carefully examine the circumstances of your arrest, including the administration of field sobriety tests and breathalyzer results, to identify any errors or violations of your rights.

Negotiating Reduced Penalties

Our attorneys work with prosecutors to negotiate for reduced charges or penalties, especially for first-time offenders.


Defending Repeat Offenders

If you have prior DUI/DWI convictions, we develop a robust defense strategy to address the heightened penalties and protect your future.


Frequently Asked Questions

About  DUI/DWI Charges


  • You can refuse, but it comes with automatic penalties, including immediate license suspension under North Carolina’s implied consent law.

  • A first-time DWI typically results in a one-year license suspension, but limited driving privileges may be available.

  • North Carolina has a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 21, meaning any detectable BAC can lead to DWI charges, fines, and license suspension.

  • In some cases, charges can be dismissed due to insufficient evidence, procedural errors, or successful negotiations with the prosecution.

  • An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer installed in your vehicle. It may be required for drivers with high BAC levels or repeat offenses to regain limited driving privileges.

Protect Your Driving Privileges and Your Future

DUI/DWI charges can be overwhelming, but having the right legal representation makes a difference. Contact Doby & Griffis Law today to schedule a consultation and start building your defense.