A DWI conviction in New Hampshire can lead to severe legal repercussions. Driving under the influence may be considered a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity and number of offenses. As such, a DWI conviction can lead to hefty fines, jail time, and the suspension of the driver’s license. Not only these, but the permanent criminal record acquired from a DWI can impact the driver’s future employment prospects and reputation in the community. This leads many DWI convicts to seek legal advice on how to restore their driving rights and bring back a semblance of normalcy to their lives.
Restoring driving rights after a DWI is possible, but the process and requirements often vary according to the severity of the charges. There are many steps that must be taken, and many obstacles that may arise in the process. Understanding New Hampshire’s state laws regarding driving while intoxicated and the processes required to reinstate driving privileges can help DWI convicts recover after a conviction and return to their lives.
A skilled DWI lawyer from Friedman & Bresaw, PLLC may be able to evaluate a case and provide advice on how to proceed. Schedule a consultation today by calling the office at (603) 707-4800.
Legal Repercussions of a DWI Conviction
When restoring rights after a DWI conviction, it is important to understand the legal consequences of the conviction. DWI convictions have three levels of severity in New Hampshire, not including aggravated DWI. Each level involves fines, license suspensions, and the potential for jail time, increasing with each repeat offense. According to the National College for DUI Defense, a first offense DUI in New Hampshire can carry fines of up to $1,200, license suspension of up to 24 months, and may require the driver to take certain driving programs. These charges become more severe if the offense is aggravated or a repeat offense.
Revocation of License in New Hampshire DWI
The most common frustration after a DWI in New Hampshire is the revocation of a driver’s license. In modern America, the ability to drive is highly beneficial for the general quality of life as well as financial stability. Being unable to drive may force a DWI convict to rely on friends and family, use unreliable public transportation, or spend money on rideshare services. All of these options can be incredibly inconvenient and challenging for drivers. As such, many wish to work to have their license reinstated as soon as possible. A DWI can lead to license suspensions from nine months to indefinite suspension. The shortest amount of time that a license may be suspended according to New Hampshire statutes is six months, but this may require the driver to take certain safe driving programs.
How To Restore Driving Privileges After a DWI
The process of restoring rights after a DWI conviction in New Hampshire is complex, often influenced by the particulars of the case. However, there are often certain methods that may assure the courts of the driver’s sincerity and intent to drive safely on the road. Ultimately, restoring rights after a DWI is a matter of time and the court’s decision. Living with a suspended license for some time may be inevitable, but certain actions can help reduce this time and restore rights faster.
For more information on how to accelerate the restoration process, speak with a skilled DWI attorney from Friedman & Bresaw, PLLC for answers to your DWI questions.
Impaired Driver Care Management Program (IDCMP)
After a DWI conviction, the convicted driver may need to attend certain safe driving courses, such as the Impaired Driver Care Management Program (IDCMP). These programs may involve screenings for potential substance use disorder issues, evaluation of the driver, and other psychological factors. Additionally, these programs may involve classes and learning requirements to ensure that the driver knows how to promote safe behavior on the road. These are often referred to as DWI school and are generally designed to help avoid future offenses.
Treatment Programs
In some circumstances, when mental health disorders such as substance use disorder are a factor, the courts may require that the impaired driver undergo a treatment program to deal with the underlying issue before restoring driving rights. Treatment programs are designed to help address the root issues of addiction to promote recovery. Sometimes these programs can become a factor in DWI cases and may help impaired drivers avoid future DWI convictions.
Ignition Interlock Devices
Ignition interlock devices may also play a role in some DWI convictions. An ignition interlock device is a small, portable blood alcohol testing device that can determine if an individual is intoxicated. These devices are connected to the ignition of the impaired driver’s car, and the driver must pass the breath test in order to start their car. While this may seem frustrating, these devices can help prevent further DWI convictions by actively preventing individuals from driving while impaired by alcohol. Additionally, installing an ignition interlock device may help reduce the suspension of a license and restore driving rights more quickly.
How a DWI Lawyer Can Help
DWI convictions are complex and can have challenging implications for a convicted driver. While an attorney is not required to navigate a DWI case, they can provide distinct benefits to their clients that can help overcome the common challenges of a DWI case. For example, a New Hampshire DWI lawyer will generally have experience with many DWI cases in the state, and can use this extensive context to evaluate cases, provide legal insight, and help their clients find the best possible solution. Additionally, extensive experience with New Hampshire state law and court processes can help with navigating complex court procedures and paperwork. A New Hampshire DWI attorney can take the pressure off their clients and provide legal services that can help restore driving rights more quickly after a DWI conviction.
Contact a New Hampshire DWI Attorney Today
After a DWI conviction, the individual may face enormous financial and legal challenges. Navigating life with a suspended license and dealing with the legal obstacles and fallout of a conviction can be challenging and even humiliating. An experienced and understanding New Hampshire DWI attorney from Friedman & Bresaw, PLLC can help navigate the legal process and advocate for your rights. A deep knowledge of the legal system and experience with DWI cases can be an incredible support to individuals looking to reduce their license revocation period. Schedule a consultation with an attorney today at (603) 707-4800 to learn more about your legal rights.
