Friedman & Bresaw are your trusted advocates in Concord, New Hampshire, for all matters related to DUI/DWI cases.
We are a respected law firm with a rich history of defending clients facing DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) charges.
With decades of combined experience, we are dedicated to providing you with the legal guidance and representation you need during this challenging time.
Why Choose Us for Your DUI/DWI Case?
At Friedman & Bresaw, we understand that a DUI/DWI charge can be a life-altering event. Here’s why you should trust us with your case:
Proven Expertise: Our team of experienced DUI/DWI attorneys has successfully handled numerous cases in Concord and across New Hampshire. We are well-versed in the state’s DUI/DWI laws and defense strategies.
Customized Defense: We recognize that every DUI/DWI case is unique. We take the time to understand the specifics of your situation and tailor our defense strategy accordingly. Our goal is to minimize the impact on your life and future.
Strong Advocacy: We are committed to protecting your rights and ensuring fair treatment throughout your case. We are relentless advocates in and out of the courtroom, working to achieve your best possible outcome.
Understanding DUI/DWI in Concord, NH
DUI/DWI charges in New Hampshire are serious offenses that can result in significant penalties. It’s essential to have a clear understanding of the implications:
Penalties: DUI/DWI convictions can lead to fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, and even jail time. The severity of the penalties often depends on factors such as blood alcohol content (BAC) and prior convictions.
License Suspension: The New Hampshire Department of Safety can suspend your driver’s license following a DUI/DWI arrest. We can assist in addressing license suspension issues and exploring options for reinstatement.
Criminal Record: A DUI/DWI conviction can have long-lasting consequences, including a criminal record affecting employment opportunities, insurance rates, etc.Legal Advice: If you’ve been charged with DUI/DWI, seeking legal advice is essential. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case, answer your questions, and guide you to the best action.
DUI/DWI Case Process
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what you can expect:
Arrest: It all begins with the initial arrest. Law enforcement may stop your vehicle if they suspect you’re driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
They will conduct field sobriety tests and may administer a breathalyzer test to measure your BAC. If they have probable cause to believe you’re impaired, they will place you under arrest.
Booking: After the arrest, you’ll be taken to the police station for booking, which involves recording your personal information, the charges against you, and taking your fingerprints and photographs. Depending on the circumstances, you may be held in custody temporarily or released on bail.
Arraignment: The arraignment is your first court appearance. Here, you’ll be formally informed of the charges against you, and you’ll have the opportunity to enter a plea, typically “guilty,” “not guilty,” or “no contest.” It’s advisable to consult with an attorney before making this decision.
Pre-Trial Proceedings: In the pre-trial phase, both the prosecution and defense gather evidence, exchange information, and engage in negotiations. This stage may involve motions to suppress evidence, discovery requests, and discussions about potential plea bargains.
Trial: If a plea agreement is not reached, your case will proceed to trial. Both sides present their arguments and evidence before a judge or jury during the trial. Your defense attorney will challenge the prosecution’s evidence and seek to prove your innocence or raise reasonable doubt.
Verdict: After the trial, a verdict will be reached. If you are found guilty, sentencing will follow. If you are found not guilty, you will be acquitted, and the case will be closed. In some cases, a mistrial may occur, leading to the possibility of a retrial.
Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence, which may include fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, probation, or even jail time. The severity of the sentence can vary depending on factors such as prior convictions and the circumstances of your case.
Appeals: If you believe there were errors in the legal process that affected your case’s outcome, you have the right to appeal the verdict or sentence. An experienced DUI/DWI attorney can assist you with the appeals process.
At Friedman & Bresaw, we are dedicated to advocating for your rights and guiding you through every step of the process to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
DUI/DWI Defense Strategies in Concord
Facing DUI/DWI charges can be overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that a skilled attorney can develop effective defense strategies tailored to your unique situation. Here are some key defense strategies we employ in Concord:
Challenging the Stop: One critical aspect of any DUI/DWI case is the legality of the traffic stop. If law enforcement did not have a valid reason to stop your vehicle, any evidence gathered afterward may be deemed inadmissible.
We carefully scrutinize the details of the stop to determine if your rights were violated.
Questioning Field Sobriety Tests: Field sobriety tests are subjective and can be influenced by various factors, including weather conditions and an individual’s physical condition. Our attorneys examine whether these tests were administered correctly and challenge their reliability in court.
Breathalyzer Accuracy: Breathalyzer tests are commonly used to measure BAC levels. However, these devices are not infallible and can produce inaccurate results if not properly maintained or calibrated.
We investigate the maintenance records of the breathalyzer used and explore any potential issues that may undermine the accuracy of the results.
Blood Test Reliability: If a blood test was administered, we ensure the proper chain of custody was maintained to avoid contamination or tampering. We also examine the qualifications of the medical professional who conducted the test and may challenge its results if there are irregularities.
Rising BAC Defense: In some cases, your BAC may have been below the legal limit while driving but rose above it when tested. This can be a valid defense, as it challenges the prosecution’s ability to prove that you were above the limit while driving.
Illegal Search and Seizure: If law enforcement illegally searched your vehicle or person, any evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court. We carefully review the circumstances of your arrest to determine if your Fourth Amendment rights were violated.
Negotiating Plea Bargains: Sometimes, a plea bargain may be the most favorable option. We work to secure reduced charges or penalties whenever possible, especially for first-time offenders.
Proving Necessity: In rare cases, the defense of necessity may apply. For example, this defense may be viable if you were forced to drive under the influence to avoid a more significant danger, such as a medical emergency.
Educational and Rehabilitation Programs: In certain situations, completing alcohol education or rehabilitation programs before trial can demonstrate your commitment to addressing any underlying issues. This proactive approach may influence the court’s decision.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Facing a DUI/DWI charge is a stressful experience. At Friedman & Bresaw, we provide the support and legal expertise you need.
Contact us at (603) 707-4800 to schedule your free consultation.
See how 50 combined years of experience can help you.
Give yourself a fighting chance.