Biloxi DUI Defense Firm Focused On Results

The days when a drunk driving offense was treated as a “ticket” are long gone. Today, if you are convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI) anywhere in Mississippi, the consequences you face are severe.

The most basic first offense — if you tested over the .08 limit for blood alcohol content (BAC) but did not cause an accident or have a minor child in the car — carries penalties including a 90-day driver’s license suspension, a hefty fine and even jail time. If you have prior DUI convictions or other circumstances apply, you may be looking at vehicle impoundment, mandatory ignition interlock, a year or longer in jail and other life-changing penalties.

We Will Dig Into Your Case And Fight For Your Rights And Freedoms

The bottom line here: you need a good DUI defense attorney on your side — one with trial experience, excellent negotiating skills and a solid reputation in the courts and community. We encourage you to contact us at Hornsby Watts, PLLC, for:

• Thorough investigation of your case, including whether the traffic stop was legal and whether breath, blood or other alcohol testing equipment was used properly
• Personal attention to your life circumstances and goals, such as keeping your criminal record clean, protecting your job and continuing to drive, at least on a limited basis
• Proven ability to fight against conviction in court or negotiate with prosecutors for manageable consequences if that is the best path

With our firm on your side, you can weather the legal storm.

‘Can I Lose My Driver’s License After A DUI Arrest In Mississippi?’

Yes, you can lose your driver’s license after a DUI arrest in Mississippi. The state has two separate processes that can suspend your license. First, if you refuse a breath or blood test, your license gets suspended immediately for 90 days. Second, if you test over the legal limit, your license faces suspension for 30 days. These are administrative suspensions that happen before your criminal case even goes to court. As experienced DUI attorneys, we can help you request a hearing to fight these suspensions and protect your driving privileges.

What Are Ignition Interlock Devices And When Does Mississippi Require Them?

An ignition interlock device is a small machine that connects to your car’s ignition system. You must blow into the device before your car will start. If the device detects any alcohol on your breath, your car will not start. Mississippi courts require these devices in certain DUI cases. You may need one if you have multiple DUI arrests or if your blood alcohol level was very high. First-time offenders with high BAC levels may also face this requirement. The device must stay in your car for a set time period, usually six months to several years. You pay all costs including installation fees, monthly monitoring fees and removal costs. Our firm’s team will help you understand when these devices apply to your specific case.

How Long Does A DUI Stay On Your Record In Mississippi?

A DUI conviction stays on your criminal record permanently in Mississippi. The state does not allow you to expunge or remove DUI convictions from your record. This means employers, landlords and others can see your DUI conviction for life. The conviction also counts against you if you face future DUI charges, leading to harsher penalties. This is why fighting your DUI charge is so important. Our attorneys work hard to avoid conviction or get charges reduced to protect your permanent record.

‘Can I Fight A DUI Charge In Mississippi If The Breathalyzer Showed I Was Over The Legal Limit?’

Yes, you can fight a DUI charge even if the breathalyzer showed you were over the legal limit. Breathalyzer machines can give wrong readings for many reasons. The device may not have been calibrated properly or the officer may not have followed proper testing procedures. Your body temperature, certain medications and medical conditions can also affect results. We investigate every aspect of your breathalyzer test. We check maintenance records, training certificates and testing procedures to find problems with your case.

Why Do You Need A Lawyer?

One of the biggest myths people wrongly accept is that, if you are arrested for DUI in Mississippi, the consequences will be the same with or without a defense lawyer. Not only does facing this charge alone basically guarantee conviction, but you will also sacrifice any ability to get fines reduced, avoid reporting probation or otherwise benefit from our legal knowledge and skills.

We are prepared to represent you whether you tested over the limit or refused the test. Our experience extends to first DUI offenses and more serious criminal charges. Our firm will guide you through everything required in both your criminal case and related to your driver’s license. To put a proven Biloxi DUI defense attorney to work on your case, call our office at 228-207-2990 or send us email now.