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DWI laws are the exact same as DUI in some areas. In others, it is a different and often more serious offense. DUI stands for driving under the influence. In many jurisdictions this offense can be triggered after consumption of just a small amount of intoxicating substance.
DWI stands for driving while intoxicated and in some places is a more serious crime as compared to driving under the influence. In these localities it signifies that the defendant has exceeded the blood alcohol content limit for that given jurisdiction. It therefore can entail more a more severe outcome than the corresponding DUI penalty.
In other places these two terms of DUI and DWI can be used the same in the same way interchangeably. This only begins to scratch the surface of complexity when it comes to this arena of law. Consequently, one charged with a drunk driving related offense would be quite reckless if attempting to represent themselves without professional counsel.
Intoxication does not necessarily have to emanate from alcohol. It can be from any substance which is deemed to impair one's driving. Therefore, it becomes important to review all you consume including even legal medications. Any adverse influence upon your driving could theoretically put you in violation of your State's DUI laws.
There are new proposed laws in some jurisdictions which could potentially limit the rights one has when initially pulled over. Other developments in different locales have the opposite result opening up new lines of defense.
DWI laws provide for many avenues of attack a good attorney can use in your defense. Some could relate to probable cause issues stemming from the initial police stop. Alternatively, the results of a chemical test, if administered, can be contested. A layman is unable to effectuate these strategies on their own. Make sure you have a seasoned professional protecting your rights.
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