The Repercussions Of Getting A DWI Charge In Gastonia, NC

By Lakota R. Denton


Most people don't know that receiving a DWI charge in Gastonia, NC can have many lasting effects. Not only can you receive criminal punishments, but it can also include costly fees and and a revocation of your driving privileges.

Losing your license can be a major consequence of a DWI charge. Once the automatic thirty day revocation period has been instated, it may be possible to receive a limited driving privilege after only 10 days, that would allow one to commute only to work or school for the remainder of the thirty day revocation period. After that thirty day civil revocation period, your license active until the DWI charged has been resolved by the court, either by a conviction or dismissal. If a conviction is handed down, your license will be revoked for a period of 1 year, effective immediately following the conviction. Again it is possible to obtain a limited driving privilege for purposes like school, work etc.. for the remainder of the year.

The cost burden of a DWI is substantial, and there are a variety of financial implications to the individual convicted. The initial fine for being convicted can range from a couple hundred dollars to upwards of ten thousand dollars (if for example it is a repeat offense, or if the incident involved a death or serious injury). The person convicted will also be burdened with court costs, which can vary by location and state, but generally speaking can add another few hundred dollars. Sometimes there are additional required costs if the judge orders treatment programs or an alcohol assessment. If a limited driving privilege or reinstatement of your drivers license is pursued, that cost will fall on your shoulders as well.

One harsh truth about a DWI charge is that if convicted, your insurance company has the legal right to raise your insurance premium up to 400%. They do this not only to protect their financial interests (as people with a DWI conviction are categorized as higher risk), but also because a DWI conviction puts 12 points on your driving record. For reference, a speeding ticket puts one insurance point on your record, which often results in a substantial increase in an insurance premium. Given this, its easy to see how getting 12 points at one time on your driving record can drive your insurance payment through the roof. If no other points are levied to your license during this time, the points received by your DWI charge will remain on your license for a period of three years.

An experienced criminal defense lawyer can be in an invaluable asset in receiving the best outcome from a DWI charge. Minick Law's experienced attorneys are ready to help, and are standing by to offer a free consultation on your case. Contact them today.






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