What Happens if I'm Charged with my Second DWI in Virginia?

Drinking and driving carries significant penalties, not just life or death, but also criminally. Virginia is known to be one of the most strict states when it comes to criminal and traffic offenses. A first-time DWI in many cases will result in some jail time, as well as significant administrative penalties, including driver's license suspension and installation of an ignition interlock device.

However, a second subsequent DWI will result in even harsher penalties. If your second DWI is within five years of your first offense and your blood alcohol concentration is under 0.15, there is a mandatory minimum requirement of 20 days in jail and at least a $500 fine. If you are convicted in court, your driver's license will be suspended for three years. If your second DWI within five years of the first offense results in a blood alcohol concentration over 0.15, there is a mandatory minimum requirement of 30 days in jail and a fine up to $2,500.

If your second subsequent DWI is within ten years of the first offense and your blood alcohol concentration is under 0.14, there is a mandatory minimum requirement of 10 days in jail.

As you can see, Virginia does not mess around when it comes to drinking and driving. If you are charged with your second subsequent DWI in Virginia, call the experienced attorneys at Portner & Shure today for a free consultation: (703) 916-1227.