Driving Under the Influence (DWI & DUID)

Driving Under the Influence under Virginia Code § 18.2-266 is a serious offense that applies to operating a motor vehicle with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. First and second offenses are generally Class 1 misdemeanors, but they carry mandatory administrative driver's license suspensions, substantial fines, required completion of the Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program (VASAP), and potential active jail time—especially if BAC levels exceed 0.15% or 0.20%.

Legal counsel practicing in Abingdon, Bristol, Smyth County, and the surrounding areas provides essential guidance through both the administrative license suspension and criminal proceedings. An attorney examines the lawfulness of the initial traffic stop, the administration and accuracy of standardized field sobriety tests, and the calibration records of the breath-test instrument. Uncovering technical vulnerabilities or procedural defects allows counsel to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and advocate for a charge reduction or acquittal.