Chichester DWI Lawyers

If you have found yourself on this page, it’s likely that you are facing a DWI charge in Chichester, New Hampshire. At Tenn And Tenn, PA, we understand that dealing with such a situation can be incredibly stressful and confusing. Our firm is here to offer compassionate and skilled legal support to help you navigate this challenging time and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.

Understanding DWI Penalties in Chichester, NH

Being charged with a DWI in Chichester can have serious consequences, and the penalties vary depending on whether it’s your first, second, or subsequent offense. For a first-time DWI offense in Chichester, New Hampshire, the charge is classified as a Class B misdemeanor. This is considered a crime, and it carries a minimum fine of $500 plus a penalty assessment, bringing the total to around $620. Additionally, there is a mandatory license suspension that ranges from nine months to two years. First-time offenders are also required to undergo alcohol and drug abuse screening within 14 days of their conviction.

Depending on the results, they may need to complete a full substance use disorder evaluation within 30 days of their conviction. Completing the impaired driver education program, which includes a 20-hour substance abuse education class, is also mandatory, along with any recommended follow-up counseling. It is possible to reduce the license suspension by six months if the required programs are completed. Besides these penalties, there are administrative consequences for either refusing a breath, blood, or urine test or having a blood alcohol concentration above 0.08 for drivers over 21 or 0.02 for drivers under 21. For a first offense, jail time is not required unless there are additional aggravating factors.

For a second DWI offense in Chichester, the consequences become more severe. You will face a two-year administrative license suspension and may be charged with a Class A misdemeanor. A second conviction within two years of a prior DWI results in a mandatory 60-day jail sentence, though 30 days may be suspended if you complete a full substance abuse evaluation and follow any treatment recommendations. If the second offense occurs within 10 years of a prior conviction, the minimum jail sentence is 17 days, with 12 days potentially being suspended under similar conditions. Additional penalties include a three-year court-imposed license loss, a fine of $750 plus a penalty assessment, totaling $930, and the requirement to install an ignition interlock device upon regaining driving privileges.

When facing a third DWI offense in Chichester, the penalties intensify further. A third offense results in an indefinite license loss and a mandatory 180-day jail sentence, with 150 days possibly suspended based on timely substance use disorder evaluation and treatment. After five years, you may petition the court and the Department of Safety for the reinstatement of driving privileges. Alongside these penalties, there is also a two-year administrative license suspension.

Felony DWI Charges in Chichester

While most DWI offenses are misdemeanors, there are circumstances under which a DWI can escalate to a felony. A DWI can become a felony if it is a fourth offense within a 10-year period. In such cases, penalties can include fines of up to $10,000 and imprisonment for up to 10 years. Additionally, if a DWI offense results in serious injury, the charge may be elevated to aggravated DWI, classified as a Class B felony. Conviction for aggravated DWI can lead to sentences ranging from 3 1/2 to 7 years in state prison, substantial fines, an 18-month minimum license revocation, and the mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device. In cases where a DWI results in death, charges may include aggravated DWI and negligent homicide, both of which are felonies. Negligent homicide, a Class A felony, carries penalties of up to 15 years in prison, fines up to $4,000, and an indefinite license suspension, though reinstatement may be possible after seven years in some cases.

Choosing the Right Chichester DWI Lawyers

When facing DWI charges in Chichester, New Hampshire, the importance of selecting an experienced legal team cannot be overstated. DWI convictions carry significant penalties that can impact your life for years to come. At Tenn And Tenn, PA, we understand the seriousness of these charges and offer the dedicated representation you need to navigate this challenging time. Our team is committed to providing you with the guidance and support necessary to secure the best possible outcome for your case.

The Importance of Experienced Representation

A DWI conviction can lead to severe consequences, including hefty fines, potential jail time, a criminal record, and the suspension of your driver’s license. These outcomes can have lasting effects on your personal and professional life. Choosing a knowledgeable and skilled legal team is crucial to minimize these impacts. At Tenn And Tenn, PA, our Chichester DWI lawyers bring extensive experience to every case, working diligently to protect your rights and pursue the most favorable resolution.

Why Tenn And Tenn, PA is the Right Choice

Our firm understands the complexities involved in DWI cases, from court proceedings to administrative hearings. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and provide a clear understanding of your legal options. This initial consultation allows us to assess your situation and develop a strategic approach tailored to your needs. We will be by your side every step of the way, guiding you through the legal process and advocating for your best interests.

Navigating Complicated Court and Administrative Proceedings

DWI cases involve both court and administrative processes, which can be overwhelming for someone unfamiliar with the legal system. Tenn And Tenn, PA is here to help you manage these complexities. Our team is experienced in handling all aspects of DWI cases, including challenging evidence and negotiating with prosecutors. We work tirelessly to explore every possible avenue to achieve a successful outcome for you.

Mistakes to Avoid After a DWI Arrest in Chichester, NH

If you have been arrested for a DWI in Chichester, NH, it is crucial to understand what steps to take and what mistakes to avoid. The decisions you make following your arrest can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here are some common mistakes that individuals make after a DWI arrest and how you can avoid them.

Not Seeking Legal Help Immediately

One of the biggest mistakes people make after a DWI arrest is failing to seek legal help right away. Many individuals believe they can handle the situation on their own, thinking that they can simply explain their side of the story and everything will be fine. However, DWI charges are serious and come with significant legal consequences. Without the guidance of a qualified attorney, you might not fully understand your rights or the legal procedures involved. This could lead to making decisions that negatively impact your case.

Ignoring Court Dates and Legal Procedures

Another common error is ignoring court dates and not following legal procedures. If you miss a court date, it can lead to additional charges or penalties. It’s essential to keep track of all court dates and deadlines related to your case. Missing these important dates can be seen as a lack of cooperation and can harm your defense. Staying organized and responsive to all legal requirements is crucial in managing your DWI case effectively.

Speaking Too Much to Law Enforcement

After a DWI arrest, it is important to avoid speaking too much to law enforcement. While it’s natural to want to explain your actions, anything you say can be used against you in court. Law enforcement officials are trained to gather as much information as possible, and even seemingly innocent statements can be used to strengthen the case against you. It is always better to remain silent and let your attorney handle communication with law enforcement.

Not Gathering Evidence

Failing to gather and preserve evidence is another mistake to avoid. Evidence such as witness statements, photographs, and any other relevant documents can play a crucial role in your defense. Collecting evidence as soon as possible can help build a stronger case and support your version of events. Without proper evidence, you may struggle to refute the charges against you effectively.

Overlooking the Impact of a DWI Conviction

Some people overlook the long-term impact of a DWI conviction. A DWI conviction can affect many areas of your life, including your employment, driving privileges, and personal reputation. It is essential to consider these potential consequences when deciding how to proceed with your case. An experienced attorney can help you understand the full scope of the impact and work towards minimizing the damage.

Chichester DWI client story

This client story is for educational purposes only.

Anthony’s world felt like it was falling apart the day he was arrested for DWI in Chichester, New Hampshire. It was a cold, dark evening, and Anthony’s heart raced as he sat in the back of the police car. The flashing lights and the stern faces of the officers made everything seem so overwhelming. He never imagined he would be in this situation, and the thought of a DWI charge was scary and confusing.

Anthony knew he needed help, but who could he turn to? That’s when he found Tenn And Tenn, PA. John Tenn, a dedicated lawyer at the firm, took on Anthony’s case. From the very start, John made Anthony feel like he wasn’t alone. He listened carefully to Anthony’s side of the story, never rushing or judging.

John Tenn began to work on Anthony’s case with a calm and steady approach. He gathered evidence, talked to witnesses, and reviewed every detail of the arrest. John’s commitment to understanding the truth was clear. He worked tirelessly, showing Anthony that he was not just another case but a person who deserved a fair chance.

In court, John Tenn stood firmly by Anthony’s side. He spoke clearly and passionately, explaining the facts of the case and challenging the evidence against Anthony. It wasn’t just about fighting the charges; it was about making sure that Anthony’s side of the story was heard and understood.

The day of the trial was nerve-wracking for Anthony, but he felt a sense of relief knowing that John was there to guide him through it. John’s hard work and dedication paid off. The judge declared Anthony not guilty of the DWI charges. Anthony’s heart swelled with gratitude as he walked out of the courtroom, free from the weight of a criminal record.

Contact Tenn And Tenn, PA for Your DWI Case in Chichester

If you’ve been arrested for a DWI in Chichester, it’s crucial to get help from a lawyer who understands the local legal landscape. At Tenn And Tenn, PA, we know that facing a DWI charge can be overwhelming and stressful. Our team of Chichester DWI lawyers is dedicated to providing you with the support you need during this challenging time.

We offer free consultations to discuss your case and outline your options. This initial meeting allows us to understand the specifics of your situation and to develop a strategy that aims to achieve the best possible outcome for you. Whether you’re facing potential fines, license suspension, or other consequences, we are here to guide you through every step of the legal process.

Our commitment is to work diligently on your behalf, striving to minimize the impact of the DWI charge on your life. With a track record of handling DWI cases with care and precision, Tenn And Tenn, PA stands ready to defend your rights and interests.

If you need experienced guidance and a strong advocate to navigate your DWI case, contact us today. Let us help you take the first step towards resolving your situation effectively.