A conviction for operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) may not seem like a serious matter, especially if it is your first offense. The reality of the situation is that even a first offense can have permanent consequences in the future. Any conviction can make any future convictions more severe, and even a first conviction can result in serious fines and prison time.
More than a million people get arrest for OWIs each year. Many people face these serious charges and believe that there is nothing they can do to defend themselves against them. There are several different methods that someone could protect themselves from an OWI. Take a look at these successful defenses to see if they may apply to you:
Necessity
If getting behind the wheel of a car while under the influence of drugs or alcohol was absolutely essential, you may be able to avoid a conviction for an OWI. An example of this situation would be a party where someone got hurt, and you were the best option to drive the victim to the hospital.
Duress
Driving while under the influence can be the result of someone forcing you to do it. Someone threatening you with harm or death could be a viable defense against OWI charges.
Police error
If the arresting officer acted in a manner outside of their policy, it might be grounds for a judge to dismiss the charges. An example of this would be conducting an illegal traffic stop.
Evidence issues
The evidence in an OWI arrest can be very delicate. If the defense can prove that the breathalyzer results were inaccurate, or if someone tampered with the evidence, the prosecution may not have enough to go on to convict you of any criminal activity successfully.
Unknown intoxication
It may have been possible that someone slipped drugs or alcohol into your food or drink without your knowledge, causing you to become intoxicated without realizing it. It is also possible that you did not know how your new prescription would react to a single glass of wine with dinner.
Consult with a lawyer you can trust
An experienced criminal defense attorney can review your unique situation and determine any viable defenses against your OWI charges. What them fight to protect your future and freedom by securing the best possible outcome in your defense.