Jacksonville DUI Lawyer

Jacksonville DUI Attorney

Facing a DUI arrest in Jacksonville is a daunting experience, but what you do next matters. A conviction can result in a suspended license, fines, jail time, and a permanent mark on your record. Here at Christina Rivenbark & Associates, our Jacksonville, NC DUI lawyers understand the severity of the situation and are here to help.

With over 30 years of criminal defense experience in North Carolina, we know how to fight questionable traffic stops, faulty breath tests, and administrative errors. Whether your case involves a car accident, motorcycle accident, truck accident, or drunk driving charge, whether it’s your first or a second offense, we’ll protect your rights and help you understand the process.

How Local Courts Handle DUI Cases in Jacksonville, NC

DUI charges in Jacksonville are generally heard in Onslow County District Court. Legal representation becomes more effective when your lawyer understands the specific rules and personnel of the local court system. Whether you are dealing with a first offense or aggravating factors, such as a high BAC, local knowledge can help you find the right strategy for your situation.

Your lawyer can help you understand likely plea offers, likely license consequences, and the right strategy for your particular situation. Christina Rivenbark & Associates possesses the knowledge necessary to manage Onslow County DUI cases and to successfully steer clients through the legal process.

DUI Charges Involving Camp Lejeune or Military Personnel

If you have been arrested for a DUI in Jacksonville, NC, and are affiliated with the military, there are some additional consequences you should be aware of. While civilian DUIs present serious problems in their own right, commanding officers may also take this incident to task. Even if the DUI charge does not happen on base, it can still have ramifications.

For example, if you are a civilian working on base, you may face disciplinary action by the commanding officer as well as the civilian courts. In the case of a service member, there can be ramifications to rank, deployment, and even a career. The only way to fight a DUI in Jacksonville is with a lawyer who understands both sides of the coin. Christina Rivenbark & Associates fights for both the civilian and the military.

Defending Against Breath Test and Field Sobriety Evidence

The breathalyzer method and field sobriety exercises frequently appear in DUI investigations, yet these tests don’t guarantee accuracy. A breathalyzer must be calibrated properly, and the person administering the test must be trained in the proper procedures.

Certain conditions can cause false readings, such as medications, certain foods, and the environment. The accuracy of field sobriety tests can be affected by a variety of factors, including fatigue, anxiety, and uneven ground.

A skilled DUI attorney examines how the tests were administered and if your rights were violated. Evidence may be suppressed if the protocols are not followed. Contact the Law Offices of Christina Rivenbark & Associates to learn how to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

Why Hiring a Jacksonville DUI Lawyer Early Makes a Difference

The earlier you contact a DUI lawyer after an arrest, the more options you may have. In 2023, 2,325 total crashes occurred where the driver’s blood alcohol concentration was between 0.08% and 0.14%. The sooner your attorney gets involved, the more opportunity they have to request a license hearing, preserve the body cam video, review the police report, and start building your defense before evidence is lost.

Lawyers have the chance to explore treatment programs or plea deals, which might lead to dropping the charges if they start working on your defense quickly. Waiting too long can close off legal options and put your license and record at risk. Christina Rivenbark & Associates offers immediate assistance to safeguard your future once you contact them.

FAQs

Q: What Happens if I’m a Service Member Charged With DUI in Jacksonville?

A: Being a service member stationed at Camp Lejeune or any other military base near Jacksonville, Florida, means that you can face military consequences in addition to a civilian DUI charge.

For example, you may lose your rank or be put on restricted duty. You must examine potential impacts on your military career while managing your criminal defense case. A Jacksonville DUI lawyer who is familiar with military DUI cases can help protect you on both fronts.

Q: Can I Be Convicted if I Fail a Breath Test?

A: Simply failing a breath test doesn’t mean you’re automatically convicted of DUI. Breathalyzers can fail, return inaccurate results, or be used improperly by officers. If your rights are violated or the test is performed incorrectly, your attorney may be able to have the results suppressed.

Your Jacksonville DUI attorney evaluates how the breath test was carried out and determines its validity in court challenges. Having a solid defense could result in a reduced charge or dismissal.

Q: How Long Will a DUI Stay on My Record in North Carolina?

A: A conviction in North Carolina will stay on your criminal record forever and can’t be removed. If you’re convicted of another DUI within 7 years, the previous offense will count as a prior. This is a permanent mark that can hurt your job prospects, background checks, and insurance rates. That’s why it’s crucial to defend against a DUI charge as soon as possible. A qualified lawyer can help you explore all your options.

Q: Do I Have to Appear in Court for a DUI in Jacksonville?

A: Yes, most North Carolina DUI charges will require an appearance in court. The only exceptions would be if it’s a misdemeanor or has aggravating factors. Your case would be in the Onslow County District Court if you’re in Jacksonville. Not appearing in court could result in extra DUI penalties in North Carolina. Your legal representative might be able to attend specific court sessions instead of you. Your attorney can inform you about the possible choices you can make in your legal situation.

Contact a Jacksonville DUI Lawyer

Drunk driving is a crime that can follow you for years. In Jacksonville, getting a lawyer is critical to the protection of your rights. At Christina Rivenbark & Associates, we provide skilled, local defense tailored to your case. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights and moving forward with confidence.