Finding A DUI Lawyer in Nevada
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Nevada. It is important to understand the laws surrounding DUI arrests in the state, especially if you’ve been charged with a DUI in Nevada. Finding a top-rated Nevada DUI lawyer should be your first step to beating your DUI charge.
A Nevada DUI conviction can result in severe consequences, including fines, driver’s license suspension, and even jail time. Finding a top-rated DUI lawyer in Nevada can provide the best chance for avoiding the worst penalties. We will explore the rate of DUI arrests in Nevada over the past few years and how getting a Nevada DUI lawyer can help you beat a DUI charge.
What Is Considered A DUI in Nevada?
In the State of Nevada, the term DUI describes the legal offense of operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or other intoxicating substances. This is also known as drunk driving, although other drugs can impair someone’s ability to drive. The definition of DUI is codified under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 484C.
Legal Criteria for DUI in Nevada
A person can be charged with a DUI if they operate a motor vehicle in any of the following conditions:
- With a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.08% or more within two hours of driving.
- While under the influence of intoxicating liquor.
- While under the influence of a controlled substance.
- With a prohibited substance in their blood or urine as defined under the state’s controlled substances law.
Unlike some states that rely solely on BAC levels, Nevada law allows for DUI charges based on the presence of illegal substances or even prescription drugs if they impair driving ability. For those under the age of 21 or commercial drivers, lower BAC thresholds apply. A BAC of 0.02% is the limit for drivers under 21, and 0.04% for commercial drivers.
Refusal to submit to DUI breath tests, DUI blood tests, or DUI drug tests as part of a lawful DUI arrest may result in automatic license revocation.
Understanding Nevada’s specific legal definitions and penalties surrounding DUI is crucial for anyone involved in such a case. The complexity of the legal statutes makes it advisable for anyone facing a DUI charge in Nevada to consult with a Nevada criminal defense attorney specializing in Nevada DUI law.
DUI Arrest Rates in Nevada
According to the Nevada Office of Traffic Safety, there were 21,450 DUI arrests in Nevada in 2019. This marks an increase from the 19,684 DUI arrests made in 2018. The majority of DUI arrests in Nevada occur in Clark County, which includes the city of Las Vegas.
Penalties for DUI in Nevada
The penalties for a DUI in Nevada can be severe, depending on the circumstances of the case. The following is a general overview of the penalties for DUI in Nevada:
First DUI in Nevada
- A fine of up to $1,000
- License suspension for 90 days
- Possible jail time of up to six months
- Possible installation of ignition interlock device (IID)
Second DUI in Nevada
- A fine of up to $1,000
- License suspension for one year
- Mandatory jail time of at least 10 days, up to six months
- Mandatory installation of IID
Third DUI in Nevada
- A Felony DUI charge, punishable by up to six years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000
- License revocation for three years
- Mandatory jail time of at least one year, up to six years
- Mandatory installation of IID
Fourth DUI in Nevada
- A Felony DUI charge, punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000
- License revocation for three years
- Mandatory jail time of at least two years, up to 20 years
- Mandatory installation of IID
It is important to note that these penalties are a general overview and that the specific penalties for DUI in Nevada may vary depending on the circumstances of the case.
Ignition Interlock Devices
In addition to the above penalties, Nevada also requires the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) for some DUI offenders. An IID is a device that is installed in a vehicle that requires the driver to blow into it before the car will start. If the device detects alcohol on the driver’s breath, the car will not start.
In Nevada, an IID is required for:
- Second and subsequent DUI offenses
- First offense with a BAC of 0.18 or higher
- First offense with a passenger under the age of 15 in the vehicle
The cost of installing and maintaining an IID can be substantial, and it is important to discuss the potential requirement of an IID with your Nevada DUI lawyer.
How a Nevada DUI Lawyer Can Help You Beat a DUI Charge
If you have been charged with a DUI in Nevada, it is essential to seek the assistance of an experienced Nevada DUI lawyer. An experienced Nevada DUI lawyer can provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need to help you beat your DUI charge.
One of the main ways that a Nevada DUI lawyer can help you beat a DUI charge is by investigating the circumstances surrounding your arrest. This includes reviewing the police report, blood alcohol content (BAC) test results, and any other evidence that may have been gathered by the arresting officer. Your Nevada DUI lawyer may also question the officer’s actions during the arrest, such as whether they had probable cause to stop you in the first place or if they followed proper procedure during the arrest.
Top Nevada DUI Lawyers
More Nevada DUI Resources
If you need a DUI lawyer in a specific city in Nevada, we also have pages for DUI lawyers across Nevada. Read our helpful and informative articles below to find a DUI lawyer near you. Also, you can call 1-888-839-4384 anytime for a free consultation.
Find The Top-Rated DUI Lawyers Near You
We have listings for the top DUI lawyers in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Find the best DUI lawyer for you by clicking on your state here.
