Experienced Birmingham Alabama DUI Lawyer
Call (205) 930-9717 for a Free Consultation
At the Law Offices of Michael P. Hanle, we understand that a DUI arrest is a frightening experience that can have a significant impact on your life. A DUI arrest usually occurs when a person least expects it and is unsure of how to deal with it. DUI Attorney Michael P. Hanle has extensive experience helping those charged and arrested for DUI get through this extremely difficult time.
Charged with a drunk driving? Be proactive! Call (205) 930-9717 for a free confidential consultation with an Alabama DUI-DWI defense lawyer.
Most people do not know that it is not illegal in the state of Alabama to drink and drive. It is illegal, however, to drive your vehicle under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or any substance to a degree which renders him or her incapable of safely driving. Contact DUI Attorney Michael P. Hanle today so we may discuss the difference and help you understand the process that you have now been thrust into.
He will meticulously investigate your case and consider all possible defenses and arguments that can be made to effectively defend you at this difficult time. It is important to get an experienced attorney involved early in your case. This allows the attorney to begin working on your case to achieve the desired results before you must appear in court.
Alabama’s DUI statute can be found in Alabama Code, Section 32-5A-191.
It is important to understand that when a DUI arrest occurs, two separate, but important legal proceedings take place. First, the criminal case that is prosecuted by the State or Municipal Prosecutor's Office. The second legal proceeding begins with the “pre-suspension hearing” and proceeds into an appeal of the Department of Public Safety’s decision to administratively suspend your license while the DUI case is pending.
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You only have 10 days to request an Administrative Hearing for your drivers' license after being charged with a DUI--or you will automatically have your driving privileges suspended.
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Under Alabama law, a DUI can be proven in one of six different ways:
(1) proof that an individual’s normal faculties are impaired due to alcohol; or
(2) proof that an individual’s blood alcohol or breath alcohol level was .08 or above; or
(3) proof that an individual’s normal faculties are impaired due to a controlled substance; or
(4) proof that an individual’s normal faculties are impaired due to the combined influence of alcohol and a controlled substance; or
(5) proof that an individual’s normal faculties are impaired due to any substance; or
(6) proof that an individual under the age of 21 years has a blood alcohol level of 0.02 or above (typically obtained from a blood test or breath-breathalyzer test).
The penalties upon conviction are the same, regardless of the manner in which the offense is proven. However, the penalties begin to expand exponentially for a second or third violation leading to a DUI felony.
If you plead guilty or no contest to your first DUI charge, the minimum penalties can include a driver's license suspension, entry into and completion of a court referral program, a DUI criminal conviction and various court costs and fines.
Conclusion
Alabama’s DUI / Drunk Driving Laws are complex. It is important to retain competent, knowledgeable, and aggressive attorney to represent you throughout the criminal and administrative processes. DUI Attorney Michael P. Hanle understands the process and the impact it can have on you life. If you have been accused of DUI, or if you know someone who has been accused of DUI, do not delay in contacting DUI Attorney Michael P. Hanle for a free consultation!
