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Louisiana DWI/DUI Defense Attorney

DWI Defense Attorney In Shreveport, Bossier City, Monroe, & Ruston, LA

Despite having the power to completely change your life, DWI/ DUI is one of the most common criminal offenses in Louisiana and is prosecuted aggressively by the State. You could face steep fines, jail time, and several other consequences if you are found guilty of this offense. It is imperative that you team up with a dedicated DUI/ DWI defense lawyer in Louisiana to fight the charges against you.

You must act quickly! After a DWI arrest, you have just 30 days to apply for a hearing with the DMV to fight to keep your driving privileges. This hearing is a key step in your DUI defense.

What are the Penalties for DWI/DUI?

A DUI or DWI conviction can negatively impact your future, making it difficult to find or keep employment, find or keep housing, or even maintain the same relationships you have always had. A DWI affects people’s trust in you and can restrict your opportunities for enrichment.

Additionally, DUI/DWI can bring harsh legal consequences, particularly for those who have had multiple DUI/DWI arrests or convictions. If you are a repeat DUI/DWI offender in Louisiana, do not hesitate to seek strong representation.

A DWI/DUI conviction can bring several penalties, such as:

Steep fines that can reach up to the hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the nature of the offense
Increased insurance premiums
Community service
Driving school
Substance abuse evaluation and treatment
Driver license suspension, revocation, or restriction
Installation of an ignition interlock device
Incarceration for up to several years for a felony DUI

Because of the relentless nature of alcohol offenses, it’s important to immediately contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. Eric Johnson has successfully defended clients in DWI/DUI, vehicular homicide and other drinking and driving cases for over 27 years. Eric has excellent working relations with investigators and experts, and he uses their expertise and knowledge to minimize or eliminate penalties pertaining to DWI/DUI charges. He will handle the driver’s license hearing on your behalf to ensure the best possible chance at keeping your driving privileges.

Act Now: Louisiana’s Premier DWI & Criminal Defense Attorney Ready To Fight For You

Due to Eric’s vast experience in trying so many felony and misdemeanor cases, including DWI/DUI in Louisiana courts, he understands which legal strategies are the most effective in handling your case. Because Eric has tried so many felony and misdemeanor cases in Louisiana courts (including appeals), his representation also ensures no violations of your constitutional rights will occur. He has over 27 years of experience defending DUI and other alcohol-related cases throughout Louisiana.

Your freedom is too important to gamble with. Don’t put your future at risk by waiting or hiring an inexperienced lawyer. Hire an elite vehicular homicide and DWI attorney that understands the system and knows how to get positive results. If you were arrested for DWI in Louisiana, contact our law office today to schedule an appointment or get more information.

DWI FAQs and Information

What’s the difference between DWI and DUI in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, the term “DWI” (Driving While Intoxicated) is used in official legal language rather than “DUI” (Driving Under the Influence). Despite this technical distinction, both terms refer to the same offense. Louisiana law defines DWI as operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher for regular drivers, 0.04% for commercial drivers, or while under the influence of drugs or alcohol to the degree that it impairs your ability to drive safely. Even prescription medications can lead to a DWI charge if they impair your driving abilities.

How can a DWI lawyer help me fight charges in Louisiana?

An experienced DWI defense attorney can help in numerous ways, including challenging the legality of the traffic stop, questioning the accuracy of field sobriety tests and breathalyzer results, examining police procedures for constitutional violations, negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties, representing you at administrative license suspension hearings, and preparing a strong defense if your case goes to trial. Additionally, a lawyer familiar with local courts and prosecutors may be able to help you access diversion programs or alternative sentencing options that minimize the impact on your life, particularly for first-time offenders.

What should I do if I am stopped and the officer suspects I have been drinking?

If you’re stopped and an officer suspects you’ve been drinking, remain calm and polite. Provide your license, registration, and insurance when requested. You have the legal right to decline field sobriety tests (walking in a straight line, standing on one leg, etc.) and portable breathalyzer tests on the scene. These tests are voluntary in Louisiana and often subjective. However, be aware that refusing may lead the officer to develop probable cause for arrest through other observations. If arrested, you’ll face the implied consent law regarding chemical testing at the station, where refusal carries automatic license suspension penalties. State clearly that you wish to speak with an attorney. Document the details of your stop as soon as possible afterward, as these details may be crucial for your defense.

If I am arrested for a DUI or DWI and have to appear in court, what can I expect and what should I do to prepare?

After a DWI arrest in Louisiana, you’ll typically face an arraignment where charges are formally presented, followed by pre-trial conferences and potentially a trial if you don’t accept a plea deal. To prepare, hire an experienced DWI defense attorney as soon as possible—this is the most important step. Gather all documentation related to your case, including the arrest report, chemical test results, and any relevant medical records. Attend all court appearances punctually and dress professionally in conservative attire (business casual at minimum). Follow your attorney’s advice precisely regarding what to say in court—generally, you should speak only when addressed directly by the judge.

Remember, the best way to ensure you don’t break any laws is to have a designated driver or abstain completely. If you do find yourself in trouble with the law, rest assured that you can count on our expert DWI attorney to help you get a positive result from your case. Call today to find out more!