Fairfax, Virginia Drunk Driving Defense Lawyer
If you have been arrested for drunk driving, driving while intoxicated (DWI), or driving while under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol (Va. Code 18.2-266, 18.2-266.1) in Fairfax County or Northern Virginia, you are probably nervous, anxious, and confused about the legal process that confronts you.
You may be wondering what the penalties are for DWI/DUI and how DWI/DUI cases can be defended. You may be thinking that you can go to court alone and simply tell the judge you have a good driving record. Maybe you are considering calling the lawyer that drafted your will, handled your divorce, or did the closing on your house.
Perhaps you are trying to decide which Fairfax or Northern Virginia DWI/DUI/drunk driving traffic defense lawyer to hire. Recognize this fact: just because you have been charged with DWI/DUI does not mean that you will be convicted or go to jail.
However, you must recognize that DWI/DUI law is a very specialized area of the law that is constantly changing. DWI/DUI cases are some of the most complex types of criminal cases because of the many scientific and technical issues involved and the resulting evidentiary issues. Simply having a license to practice law does not mean that a lawyer is competent to handle these cases.
Hiring a divorce, real estate, estate planning, or other lawyer who only dabbles in DWI/DUI and alcohol-related reckless driving matters will put you at a terrible disadvantage. Unlike a simple speeding ticket, DWI/DUI and reckless driving are criminal charges punishable by up to 12 months in jail, substantial fines, and license suspension. There are lasting consequences for those convicted. Who you hire as an attorney can be the single greatest factor that decides the outcome of your legal situation.
What Makes Us Different
As a former Northern Virginia prosecutor, attorney Kyle G. Manikas understands how DWI/DUI cases are prosecuted and consequently, how they can be defended.
Having an experienced Fairfax and Northern Virginia DUI/DWI defense attorney can make a substantial difference in the outcome of your case. This is true whether you are facing felony DUI/DWI charges, DUI/DWI manslaughter, a DUI/DWI accident case, or just a first offense DUI/DWI. At Manikas Law LLC, we focus on all DWI and DUI offenses, including driving with a BAC of .08 or more, driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, driving after illegally consuming alcohol (underage DUI/DWI), and roadblock/checkpoint, field sobriety test DWI/DUI cases.
At Manikas Law LLC, our practice has been built upon the premise of treating each client charged with DWI/DUI in Fairfax County or Northern Virginia with individualized attention. Attorney Kyle Manikas is a former Virginia prosecutor who has handled thousands of DWI/DUI cases.
Having handled thousands of a particular type of case in Virginia, such as DWI/DUI and alcohol related reckless driving matters, gives a former prosecutor insight, experience, and judgment that can substantially benefit your defense. It is experience that cannot be gained by non-prosecutors, even over many years of practice. This experience puts former prosecutors at a distinct advantage in handling your case. As a former prosecutor, Mr. Manikas can often anticipate the government's tactics in handling your case. Contact Manikas Law LLC.
Drunk Driving Is a Serious Charge in Virginia
In Virginia, a first offense DWI/DUI is punishable by 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine, a 12-month license suspension, an ignition interlock device, and participation in Alcohol Safety Action Program (ASAP) classes. Elevated blood alcohol levels (BACs) of .15 and above carry mandatory incarceration, license suspension (without a restricted license), and an interlock device. If you have also been charged with refusal to take a breath or blood test (Va. Code Section 18.2-263), there is an additional penalty. (See our refusal and implied consent page). Visit our frequently asked questions page for more information about your Virginia DWI/DUI.
Contact an Experienced Fairfax and Northern Virginia DWI/DUI Defense Attorney
Don't put your license, record, and future at stake. Call for a free consultation today if you have been charged with DWI/DUI/drunk driving in Fairfax County or Northern Virginia. Manikas Law LLC is located in Fairfax, Virginia. Contact us today by calling 703-873-7473, or contact us by e-mail. For toll-free assistance, call 888-503-8075. Read more about Hiring a DWI/DUI Lawyer.
