Killen DUI Lawyer

DUI Attorney In Killen, AL

You’re driving home after having dinner with friends. You had a few drinks, but you feel fine. Then, there are flashing lights in your rearview mirror. The Killen Police are pulling you over and are about to ask you how much alcohol you’ve had to drink. Getting a DUI can affect you in many ways, from your job and livelihood to your anxiety about facing criminal charges. You need a Killen DUI lawyer to help you if you get charged.

About Us

The Law Office of Brad Phillips, LLC can handle your DUI case from your arrest to facing the judge in court. Our former clients highly recommend us. They comment on Brad’s confidence and professionalism. As a former police officer and experienced Killen criminal defense lawyer, Brad has seen both sides of DUI cases. He understands the laws and the impact that DUI penalties can have on your life. It’s essential to have a knowledgeable Killen DUI attorney working on your behalf.

DUI Statistics in the U.S. and Alabama

In 2024, there were 804,926 DUI arrests across the country. This accounted for 11% of all arrests. In Alabama that same year, there were 8,884 DUI arrests. The statistics for the number of convictions from those arrests are unclear, but if you hire a DUI lawyer, you can have a more acceptable outcome, avoiding expensive fines and jail time. If your arrest involves other substances, a trusted Killen drug crime lawyer can address the specific complexities of drugged driving defense.

DUI Laws in Alabama

Alabama Code 35-5A-191 highlights the qualifications for a DUI charge. The police can pull you over if they suspect you may be under the influence based on your driving or some other traffic violation. The criteria for a DUI charge is a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08%, which is about three or four drinks in two hours, or above. This is measured by your weight, so a BAC can vary from person to person.

For someone under the age of 21, a blood alcohol concentration of anything over zero constitutes driving under the influence.

With the use of marijuana on the rise and people taking extra doses of prescription medication, the police can charge you with a DUI if they suspect you’ve taken drugs or another substance. Testing for these substances is more difficult than for alcohol, making it harder for the police to prove you were impaired.

DUI Penalties in Killen

DUI penalties get harsher with more offenses. They start as misdemeanors and move to felonies. Having a felony on your record can affect your ability to get a job or own a weapon.

Here’s a list of possible sentences:

• First offense. The possibility of up to one year in jail, a $600 to $2,100 fine, and a 90-day suspension of your driver’s license
• Second offense. Mandatory 48 hours to one year in jail, a $1,100 to $5,100 fine, and a one-year suspension of your driver’s license
• Third offense. Felony charge, mandatory 60 days to one year in jail, a $2,100 to $10,000 in fines, and a revocation of your driver’s license for three years

There are other factors that are considered in your DUI penalty.

• You can receive a more severe sentence if your blood alcohol level is over 0.15%.
• If you refuse the blood test requested by the police, your driver’s license can be suspended immediately. You have 30 days to appeal this decision.
• The presence of a child 14 years old or younger in the car with you while you’re driving can influence your sentence.
• Any time someone else is injured or killed in an accident that you caused while driving under the influence, the sentence is harsher.

Possible Defense Strategies for DUI

Killen DUI attorneys use different strategies to develop a defense when their client has been charged with a DUI. Here are a few examples:

• Your initial traffic stop could have been unlawful and lacking probable cause.
• Your sobriety tests may have been poorly administered with faulty equipment.
• The chain of evidence could have been disrupted.
• You may have a medical issue that caused your impairment rather than alcohol or drug use.
• The police can’t prove you were under the influence of a substance.

FAQs

What Is an IID?

An ignition interlock device (IID) can be part of your DUI penalty in Alabama. The device is installed in your car. You blow into it, and it reads your blood alcohol level. The car won’t start if you have any alcohol in your system. It’s used more often with first-time offenders as a deterrent and to prevent future DUI offenses.

Can a DUI Be Dismissed in Alabama?

Yes, DUI charges can be dismissed in Alabama. Your attorney can show that there was an issue with your case, such as a lack of probable cause or evidence. These facts can be argued in court or through negotiations with the prosecution. Having your DUI dismissed cleans it from your record.

What Is the Cost to Hire a DUI Lawyer in Alabama?

The cost of a DUI lawyer in Alabama can vary based on your circumstances. The more time spent preparing the case, gathering evidence, and the hours spent in court can add up, especially if your DUI is more complex. Consulting a skilled DUI lawyer can save you a lot of time and worry in the end.

Does a DUI Conviction Go on My Permanent Record?

Yes, a DUI conviction goes on your permanent record, impacting you for the rest of your life. If you have another DUI offense within 10 years, you can face more severe penalties for a second or third offense. A skilled DUI lawyer can help you build a case to avoid these charges on your record.

Hire a DUI Lawyer in Killen

At The Law Office of Brad Phillips, LLC, we offer a personalized approach to every criminal defense case we represent. This includes your DUI. Our compassionate and responsive team can develop a plan to face the accusations and protect your rights. DUI charges can be intimidating and stressful. Let us help you navigate the legal system. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to review your DUI and work toward a brighter future.

Killen, AL DUI Resources

• Alabama DUI Laws and Penalties – All You Need to Know