Louisiana DWI Lawyer

Best Louisiana DWI Attorney

If you’re caught driving while intoxicated (DWI), you can expect to face serious consequences under Louisiana law. Navigating a DWI case can be difficult regardless of whether it’s your first charge or a repeat offense. A Louisiana DWI lawyer can help you understand your legal options for defending against your charges. They can also advocate for you in and out of the courtroom throughout your case.

At Knightshead Law Firm, we’re committed to helping you get your life back on track after a DWI case. Our Louisiana criminal defense lawyers are well-versed in state DWI laws, and we’re familiar with tactics used by prosecutors in these types of cases. You can count on our attorneys to help you through the administrative and criminal sides of the process.

DWI Cases in Louisiana

Impaired driving is a serious issue that can lead to injuries, fatalities, and other damages. In fact, it’s listed as one of the leading causes of fatal car accidents in the United States. It’s estimated that alcohol has been involved in over 30 percent of motor vehicle crashes in Louisiana in recent years and resulted in over 240 deaths in 2023 alone.

While DWI fatalities in Louisiana have gone down in recent years, DWI arrests have been on the rise. In 2024 alone, 13,675 people were arrested for DWI across the state. This is likely in large part due to an increase in enforcement efforts throughout the state.

You can be arrested for DWI if you’re caught with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher. The limit is lower for minors.

Impaired drivers under the age of 21 must have a BAC below 0.02 percent to be considered under the legal limit. Regardless of the details of the situation, you can face serious consequences if you’re arrested for DWI in Louisiana.

Depending on your criminal history and the facts of the case, potential DWI penalties under Louisiana law can include:

• Completion of substance abuse treatment programs
• Fines and restitution to victims if applicable
• Installation of an interlock ignition device (IID)
• License suspension or revocation
• Probation
• Time in jail
• Vehicle seizure

You can expect to lose your driver’s license either temporarily or permanently depending on the details of your case and your criminal record. You might be eligible for limited exceptions, but things like hardship licenses usually require a hearing to be scheduled with the DMV.

The rules for having your license reinstated can be confusing, but it is possible to get your driving privileges back with the right guidance. It’s wise to hire a DWI lawyer to help you complete all the proper steps for legal reinstatement.

They can also help you obtain a temporary license if you rely on your vehicle to get to and from places like work or school. From start to finish, navigating a DWI case can be overwhelming and scary. The right legal representation can help you protect yourself and your future.

FAQs

Is DWI a Misdemeanor or Felony Under Louisiana Law?

DWI can be a misdemeanor or felony under Louisiana law. Typically, DWI is charged as a misdemeanor for the first couple of offenses unless other aggravating factors are present. Aggravating factors in a Louisiana DWI case can include:

• Causing serious injury
• Committing vehicular homicide
• Driving under the influence with a minor
• Getting a third or subsequent DWI

It’s possible to have a felony DWI reduced to a misdemeanor under certain circumstances. A Louisiana DWI lawyer can help with your defense.

Can a DWI Charge Be Dismissed in Louisiana?

Yes, a DWI charge can be dismissed in Louisiana. There are a handful of different avenues that may lead to the judge or prosecutors dismissing your charges. It’s highly recommended that you hire a DWI lawyer to represent you and help make this possible. Possible ways to avoid a DWI sentence include:

• Challenging the prosecution’s case
• Completing a pre-trial diversion program
• Forming a successful defense
• Plea bargaining
• Securing probation through a deferred sentence

How Long Is My Driver’s License Suspended After DWI in Louisiana?

How long your driver’s license is suspended after DWI in Louisiana can vary based on the details of your case and your criminal history. In many cases, you can expect to lose your license for longer periods of time for subsequent offenses.

It’s important to note that your license undergoes an administrative suspension upon your arrest. You must attend a hearing to have this suspension lifted. Separately, your license may be suspended as a part of a criminal sentence.

Can I Go to Jail for DWI in Louisiana?

Yes, you can go to jail for DWI in Louisiana. Even first-time DWI offenses carry a minimum sentence. That said, it’s typically more likely for your attorney to negotiate a plea bargain for probation instead.

Repeat offenders and those facing aggravating charges are more likely to be sentenced to imprisonment and have a harder time negotiating lighter penalties. It’s highly recommended that you hire a DWI lawyer to help you secure a favorable outcome.

Hire a DWI Lawyer in Louisiana to Help With Your Charges

Facing DWI charges is serious, even if it’s your first offense. With the right legal representation, you can navigate the complexities of Louisiana’s criminal justice system and secure a fair outcome for your case.

Residents across the state of Louisiana have been turning to Knightshead Law Firm for over 15 years. Our local Louisiana personal injury lawyers are committed to protecting and advocating for those going up against the criminal justice system.

We’re familiar with criminal procedures in and out of the courtroom and use that knowledge to defend your rights and protect your freedoms. You can count on us to be the advocate you need through every phase of your case.

If you want to learn more about how we can support you through this challenging time, reach out to schedule an initial meeting with a member of our team today. You can visit us at our office in Baton Rouge to start discussing the right strategy for your case. We’re in Baton Rouge near the I-10 and I-110 interchange.