Reno DUI Defense Lawyers
Trusted DUI Defenders in Sparks & Northern Nevada
A DUI arrest can be intimidating and humiliating. It can lead to serious legal and collateral consequences, from heavy fines and probation to job loss and a permanent criminal record that can hamper employment and other opportunities.
At Larry K. Dunn & Associates, we are deeply familiar with the impact of a DUI on your life, both legally and personally. Since 1986, we have resolved over 7,000 DUI cases across Nevada. With decades of courtroom experience, we know what to do and how to do it to give you the best chance of a positive result.
Book a free initial consultation with a Reno DUI defense attorney at Larry K. Dunn & Associates by phone at (775) 522-3550 or use our convenient contact form.
Understanding DUI Charges in Nevada
Nevada law makes it illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. The legal limit for commercial drivers is 0.04%, while drivers under 21 are held to a 0.02% limit.
A DUI charge can also arise if law enforcement believes your ability to operate a vehicle is impaired due to drugs, alcohol, or a combination of the two, regardless of BAC. When drugs are involved, it is not a defense that you have a valid medical prescription. It is also not a defense that you were driving under the influence after ingesting legalized marijuana.
Penalties for a First Offense DUI
A first-offense DUI charge is a misdemeanor carrying the following penalties:
- Two days up to six months of jail time, or 48 to 96 community service hours
- $400 in fines plus additional court costs
- License suspension of 185 days
- DUI “school”
- Attendance at a Victim Impact Panel
- Installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle for six months
To restore your license after a conviction, you must typically obtain an SR-22 certificate of financial responsibility for three years.
Let’s talk about your case! Schedule a free, confidential consultation with our expert team today.
Factors That Enhance a DUI Charge
Certain circumstances, known as aggravating factors, can escalate a DUI charge and its penalties.
These factors include:
- A BAC of 0.18% or higher
- Causing injury or death to another person
- Driving with a minor passenger in the vehicle
- Repeat DUI offenses within seven years
- Refusing to submit to a chemical test
When enhancements apply, penalties become far more severe, including longer jail sentences, higher fines, and extended license suspensions.
Building a Robust DUI Defense
A DUI charge does not have to automatically result in a conviction. Several aspects of your case can be investigated to challenge the charges:
- Was the traffic stop conducted legally?
- Were the field sobriety and chemical tests administered correctly?
- Is there evidence that the BAC test was inaccurate due to faulty equipment or improper calibration?
- Were your rights violated at any point during the arrest or investigation?
- Are there medical conditions or other factors that could have contributed to the appearance of impairment?
Our team scrutinizes every detail of your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and build a solid defense strategy tailored to your unique situation.
Navigating the complexities of DUI requires skill, commitment, and years of practice. Larry K. Dunn & Associates has become a trusted name in Nevada DUI defense. We offer effective advocacy, from defending you in court to handling DMV administrative license suspension hearings.
Contact us online or at (775) 522-3550 for a free case review with a Reno DUI attorney today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 775-522-3550 today!
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How will a DUI conviction affect me, other than the criminal penalties and my license revocation?
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Are their special considerations or penalties for an underage individual arrested for DUI?
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What should I do if I'm asked to take a field sobriety test in Nevada?