Felony DUI Attorney in Huntsville, AL
Under certain circumstances, you may face felony charges for driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs. A felony conviction can come with serious legal penalties and collateral consequences, from years of imprisonment and up to $10,100 in fines to difficulties with finding employment and housing.
If you have been arrested and charged with felony DUI in Alabama, you should not wait to hire a trustworthy lawyer. You need someone with a track record of defending clients in high-stakes cases who will treat your situation with the focus and care it deserves. You need an attorney like ours at Ward Law.
For over 18 years, our attorney, Frank Ward, has fought to protect the rights and freedoms of those charged with DUI. Attorney Ward is prepared to represent you and work to achieve your best possible case outcome. Facing DUI charges is scary, but you can get relief by choosing an experienced, focused, and driven legal professional like our Huntsville felony DUI lawyer.
Start with us by calling (256) 578-7729 or reaching out online.
When Are You Charged with Felony DUI in Alabama?
According to Alabama law, a fourth DUI charge in ten years is a Class C felony. You could also be charged with felony DUI if you have a prior felony conviction for drunk driving.
It is essential to note that you could face felony charges associated with DUI, regardless of whether you have three or more prior convictions. For example, you may be charged with a felony if you cause an accident that seriously injures or kills someone.
Understanding Felony DUI Charges in Huntsville, AL
Navigating a felony DUI charge in Huntsville, AL, can be daunting, but understanding the local landscape can make a significant difference. Huntsville is home to several key government entities and resources that play a crucial role in DUI cases. The Huntsville Police Department and the Madison County District Attorney's Office are instrumental in the enforcement and prosecution of DUI laws.
Navigating Common Legal Challenges for Felony DUI
One of the common pain points for residents facing felony DUI charges in Huntsville is the potential impact on their employment and housing opportunities. With major employers like Boeing and Redstone Arsenal in the area, a felony conviction can severely limit job prospects. Additionally, the competitive housing market in neighborhoods such as Five Points and Blossomwood can become even more challenging to navigate with a felony record.
At Ward Law, we understand the unique challenges Huntsville residents face. Our deep knowledge of the local legal system and our commitment to the community enable us to provide tailored defense strategies. Whether you're dealing with the aftermath of a DUI arrest or seeking to mitigate the long-term consequences, we are here to help you every step of the way.
If you or a loved one is facing felony DUI charges in Huntsville, don't hesitate to reach out. Our team is dedicated to providing the focused and compassionate legal support you need to navigate this difficult time.
The Penalties for Felony DUI
The penalties for felony DUI in Alabama include imprisonment, fines, driver’s license suspension, and more.
Below are details about these penalties:
- Imprisonment: The state imposes sentences between one year and a day to 10 years for felony DUI. Probation is available if you enroll in and complete an approved chemical dependency program.
- Fines: The fines for felony DUI range between $4,100 and $10,100, depending on the nature of the offense.
- Driver’s license suspension: At most, your license will be suspended for five years for a felony DUI conviction. Many drivers can have the revocation stayed. However, those with a commercial driver’s license (CDL) suspension cannot have it stayed.
- Ignition interlock device (IID): The state requires individuals convicted of felony DUI to use an IID for five years.
- Court referral program: As part of a felony sentence, you must participate in a court referral program, during which you may receive treatment, drug testing, and drug/alcohol educational programs.
Why Choose Ward Law?
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Experienced
Attorney Ward has represented clients throughout North Alabama for more than 18 years and tried cases in many courts. He has even co-authored a book for other attorneys on Alabama DUI defense.
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FocusedMr. Ward endeavors to never lose focus on the needs of his clients, and to do his utmost to achieve their goals. Let him focus on your needs and get you results.
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DrivenThe practice of law is not just a job for him; it is his passion. He is driven to strive for the best possible outcome he can for each of his clients, and he wants to put that drive to work for you.
Can You Be Charged with DUI without Driving?
No, you do not have to be driving your vehicle to be arrested for DUI. Under Alabama law, you simply need to have “actual physical control” of your car. This means that you could be arrested for DUI if you are sitting in your car while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It is important to be aware of this Alabama provision, especially if you have prior DUI convictions.
Facing Felony DUI? Turn to Ward Law
If you are facing felony DUI charges, do not hesitate to contact our office. You can reach us 24/7 and get essential information about your charges and legal options. We know that time is of the essence in DUI cases, so count on us for the prompt assistance you need in the moments it means the most.
To schedule a free consultation with our Huntsville felony DUI attorney, call (256) 578-7729 or contact us online.