2nd or Subsequent DWI

Prior DWI Convictions

Many clients come to us with questions about how a previous DWI conviction (or convictions), will affect their case.  This may make a huge difference in their case. A DWI conviction within the past seven year counts as a gross aggravator.  Every DWI within the past 7 years each individually counts as a gross aggravator.  If you have a conviction that was older than 7 years, it counts as an ordinary aggravating offense.  Once you have one grossly aggravating factor, it is impossible for you to get below a Level 2, no matter how many mitigating factors you have.  The judge, however, will consider your mitigating factors in determining what punishment you would receive in the Level 2 range.

Needless to say, if it is not your first DWI, you are facing much more serious penalties.  The judge will take your case seriously.  Since you have had one, and are back in court again, the judge could think that it is possible that you have not “learned your lesson.”  There are ways to fix this, including substance abuse treatment and SCRAM.  Preparation is key to presenting a case for sentencing before a judge.

Of course, just because you have been charged with a 2nd (or subsequent) DWI does not mean that you are going to be convicted of the current charges.  It may be in your best interest to contest your case and go to trial, since you are facing harsher penalties if convicted.  Winning this case would be especially important.  In addition to the harsh criminal penalties, you will have your license revoked as well, for as many as 4 years.

Conclusion

As you can see, if it is not your first DWI, you need to take these charges seriously.  Hiring a DWI lawyer to represent you in court in Monroe can make a big difference in your case.  Mr. Reeves has practiced law for over 25 years, and will bring his experience to the table to help you with your case.  When you hire him, he gives you his cell phone number to make himself available to you.  Mr. Reeves knows that sometimes answers really can’t wait, so he takes after-hours and weekend calls.  If you have already been through the DWI process before, you probably have some idea of how it works.  Our DWI attorney can help you with any further questions that you may have.