Columbus DUI Lawyer

Columbus DUI Attorney

Being charged with a DUI can seem frightening, and the effects that a conviction can have on your record and ability to drive can be life-altering. One bad decision can lead to a lifetime of ongoing consequences. Even if you don’t think you have options for fighting a DUI charge, a Columbus, NE DUI lawyer can help.

It is important to remember that a DUI charge is no reason to lose hope. While the effects of a conviction can be alarming to consider, there are many ways a defense attorney can help you obtain minimal sentencing or even help get the charges dropped. The right Columbus criminal defense lawyer can assess your case and help you take the proper steps to fight your charge and minimize or eliminate your penalties.

DUI Laws in Columbus, Nebraska

It is illegal in the state of Nebraska to operate a vehicle while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. The penalties a person can receive for a DUI offense will depend on whether they are a first-time or repeat offender and whether their case is considered aggravated.

Penalties according to charges may be assigned as follows:

• First Offense: 1 week to 2 months in jail, six months of license revocation, and a fine.
• Second Offense: 1 month to 6 months in jail, 18 months of license revocation, and a fine.
• Third Offense: 3 months to 1 year in jail, 15 years of license revocation, and a fine.
• Fourth Offense: Fourth-time offenders receive a felony charge and 6 months to 3 years in jail, along with 15 years of license revocation and a fine.
• Fifth Offense: Fifth-time offenders receive up to 20 years in jail and up to a $25,000 fine, along with 15 years of license revocation.

If a person’s offense is considered aggravated, the charge is harsher. The following penalties are in addition to those mentioned above.

• First Aggravated Offense: 1-year license revocation and possible community service.
• Second Aggravated Offense: Additional fines and up to 15 years of license revocation.
• Third Aggravated Offense: A felony charge and additional fines.
• Fourth Aggravated Offense: Additional fines.
• Fifth Aggravated Offense: Additional fines.

Zero Tolerance Policy

Nebraska has a zero-tolerance policy for minors driving while drinking alcohol. Anyone under the age of 21 found driving with a measurable amount of blood-alcohol concentration of 0.02% or higher could face charges. This means that, for a minor to be charged, they do not necessarily need to be under the influence of alcohol but simply have alcohol in their system.

Defenses to DUI Charges

There are multiple ways to defend an individual who has been charged with a DUI. Some examples of strong defenses include

• Inaccurate breathalyzer tests. A breathalyzer is an instrument used to measure the amount of alcohol present in an individual’s lungs. Because it is such a sensitive test, the reading can easily be thrown off by something as simple as small amounts of alcohol residue in a person’s mouth.
• Lack of probable cause. In order for a police officer to pull you over, they must have probable cause. To be pulled over on suspicion of driving under the influence, an officer must have had probable cause to assume you were impaired, such as swerving while driving or having an inconsistent speed.
• Improper police procedure. When making an arrest, law enforcement has certain constitutional laws to uphold. One of these is making an individual aware of their Miranda rights. If an officer fails to do so, any evidence gathered at the time of the arrest could be considered inadmissible.

Columbus DUI Law FAQs

Q: How Much Does a DUI Attorney Cost in Columbus?

A:  The cost of a DUI attorney in Nebraska will vary depending on a few factors. Each lawyer charges their clients differently. Some lawyers charge a one-time, flat fee for the service their client needs, while other lawyers charge hourly rates. In such circumstances, the duration of your case would have an effect on the overall cost. Some attorneys may charge more than others due to their location and areas of practice.

Q: How to Get Out of a DUI in Columbus?

A: There are multiple defense strategies your attorney may use to attempt to lessen your sentence or have your DUI charges dropped. One strategy may be for your attorney to identify errors made by law enforcement during or after the time of your arrest. For example, an illegal search and seizure could make all evidence found at the time be considered inadmissible. Another possible defense is to negotiate a plea bargain for reduced penalties.

Q: What Is the Penalty for a DUI in Columbus?

A: In Columbus, there are various penalties for DUI offenses. The penalty you receive will depend on a few factors, such as whether you are a first-time or repeat offender and whether there were other relevant factors involved, like a collision with another driver. Typically, a first-time offender receives a Class W misdemeanor, and their license may be revoked for six months. For repeat offenders, they may receive a Class I misdemeanor.

Q: Am I Required to Hire a DUI Attorney?

A: While you are not required by the state to hire a DUI defense attorney, there are many advantages to doing so. Such cases involve detailed facets of the law that may be difficult to understand. Additionally, facing a DUI charge can be emotionally overwhelming. Having an attorney by your side who understands the complexities of the law and can support you inside and outside of the courtroom can benefit your case in many ways.

Columbus DUI Attorney

A DUI charge can have overwhelming consequences in your life. In addition to the possibility of having your license revoked, you may also experience difficulties in finding employment if you are convicted. DUI charges should not be taken lightly and should be handled with utmost care and precision.

If you or a loved one have been charged with a DUI, it is important to reach out to an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible. Sopinski Law Office has extensive experience representing clients in similar cases. and we are ready to defend you. Reach out today to learn more about how we can help and to ask any questions you may have.