Reno DUI Defense Attorneys

What to Do If You Are Arrested for Driving Under the Influence

Nevada prosecutors vigorously pursue DUI charges, which makes it crucial for defendants to find experienced DUI attorneys to defend their rights and driving privileges. If you have been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, it is critical that you put an experienced attorney on your side as soon as possible. In addition to criminal penalties—including jail time, fines, and more—you will also face administrative penalties with the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). If you do not act quickly, you may end up risking your driver’s license, as well as your freedom.

Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P. is known for aggressive and effective DUI defense in Reno and throughout Northern Nevada. Whether you have refused chemical testing or have taken and failed a breathalyzer, do not wait another moment to hire an attorney. Our seasoned criminal defense attorneys are equipped to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case while strengthening your side of the story. Regardless of the circumstances, an attorney will be invaluable in pursuing a dismissal, minimizing penalties, or working for another positive outcome. Contact us today to discuss your case and potential defense strategies that may benefit you.

Schedule a consultation with our Reno DUI defense lawyers as soon as possible; call (775) 227-2280 or contact us online today to get started.

Nevada DUI Laws

The state of Nevada defines “driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs” as operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or 0.08% or higher. Any adult over the age of 21 who is found to be driving with a BAC of 0.08% or above can be arrested for and charged with DUI. The legal limit is just 0.04% for commercial vehicle operators and 0.02% for anyone under the age of 21.

The charges and penalties for DUI in Nevada depend on a number of factors, including the age of the defendant, their alleged BAC, and whether they have any prior DUI convictions, among others. For example, a first-time DUI is generally charged as a misdemeanor, with penalties ranging from two days to six months in jail, fines from $400 to $1,000, driver’s license suspension of 185 days, and mandatory attendance at a Victim Impact Panel course. If an individual is arrested for a second or third DUI in a period of seven years, they will face harsher penalties.

Criminal and administrative consequences are also harsher when the defendant allegedly causes injury or death; in such instances, DUI will be charged as a felony and can result in 2 to 20 years in prison, fines from $2,000 to $5,000, a driver’s license suspension of 3 years, breath interlock device installment for 12 to 36 months, and other penalties.

Driver’s License Suspension & Other Administrative Penalties

In addition to criminal penalties, those arrested for DUI in Nevada face certain administrative penalties with the Nevada DMV. If you refuse a chemical test or if a chemical test shows that your BAC was above the legal limit, your driver’s license will be automatically revoked. Your license will be suspended even if you are not convicted of DUI in criminal court.

The length for which your driver’s license will be suspended is as follows:

• 185 days for a first-time DUI (restricted license available)
• 1 year for a second offense in 7 years (no restricted license available)
• 3 years for a third offense in 7 years or felony DUI (restricted license available after 1 year)

You can only have your license reinstated by following all administrative procedures, which may include retaking written and driving skills tests. Your driver’s license will NOT be automatically reinstated at the end of the revocation period.

You are allowed to receive a restricted driver’s license after a DUI arrest before the conclusion of the mandatory revocation period if you voluntarily have an ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle. This is only available in certain circumstances. You will also be required to follow all other reinstatement procedures as outlined by the DMV and present a Certificate of Compliance at a DMV office.

You are also allowed to challenge a driver’s license revocation in Nevada by requesting an administrative hearing with the DMV. You only have seven (7) days after being notified of your driver’s license revocation to request an administrative hearing. Requesting the hearing effectively postpones your driver’s license revocation until the outcome of the hearing.

A driver’s license revocation hearing is very similar to a trial, although it is often more challenging to win such a hearing, as very little evidence is needed to uphold the revocation. However, an experienced attorney can challenge the evidence presented at the hearing and work to prove that it is insufficient.

Defending Against a Nevada DUI Charge

Many people believe that DUI charges are open-and-shut, but that is rarely true despite what the city prosecutors might imply. There are multiple valid defenses and strategies our attorneys have used to maintain the innocence and freedom of our clients.

Our Nevada DUI lawyers often explore the following in order to build your defense:

• Whether the officer who pulled you over had legal reason to do so
• The accuracy of your BAC or breath test
• If your rights were violated during the traffic stop

Breath tests for blood alcohol content can be affected by a number of issues, including whether or not the machine was properly calibrated. If the machine used in your traffic stop was not calibrated or maintained recently, the court may dismiss the breath test as evidence. These questions, among others, will be evaluated by our team once you call our firm.

Contact Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P. Today

Being arrested for DUI does not mean you do not have any legal options. At Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P., we can thoroughly investigate your case and help you fight for the best possible outcome under the law. Our Reno DUI defense attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and advocate for your future.

Give us a call at (775) 227-2280 to get started with a free and confidential consultation today.