Morgantown DUI Attorney

Trusted Defense Against DUI Charges in West Virginia

When facing a DUI charge in Morgantown, you need a dedicated attorney who understands the local legal landscape. Attorney Jared T. Moore is a trusted Morgantown DUI defense attorney with a track record of obtaining outstanding results in DUI cases, including dismissals, favorable plea agreements, and reduced penalties. With offices conveniently located directly across the street from the Monongalia County Justice Center and within walking distance of the City of Morgantown Municipal Court, The Moore Law Firm, PLLC is the local law firm that knows what it takes to get the best possible result for someone facing DUI charges.

Our firm is proud to bring nearly 60 years of combined experience to the table, allowing us to craft informed and strategic defense plans tailored to each client's unique situation. This experience is not just a number but a testament to our long-standing commitment to defending the rights of individuals in and around Monongalia County.

Have you been charged with a DUI in West Virginia? Call The Moore Law Firm, PLLC, today at (304) 521-2451 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our DUI lawyer in Morgantown, WV.

DUI Case Types We Handle

Our experienced DUI attorney in Monongala county team handles a wide range of DUI cases, including:

• Aggravated DUI – Cases involving excessive BAC, reckless driving, or other aggravating factors.
• Commercial License DUI – DUI charges for CDL holders, which carry severe penalties.
• DMV Hearings – Protecting your driving privileges and representing you in administrative hearings.
• DUI Drugs – Defending against DUI charges involving prescription or illegal drugs.
• DUI with Injury – Cases where an accident resulted in injuries, increasing potential penalties.
• DUI Causing Death – Serious felony DUI cases involving fatalities.
• Felony DUI – Repeat offenses or DUI cases involving serious harm or endangerment.
• Out-of-State DUI – Assisting drivers charged with DUI while visiting another state.
• Multiple DUI Offenses – Handling first, second, third, and subsequent DUI charges.
• Underage DUI – Defending minors facing DUI charges under zero-tolerance laws.
• Field Sobriety Tests – Challenging the accuracy and validity of roadside sobriety tests.
• Blood Testing – Questioning the reliability and legality of blood alcohol tests.
• College Student DUI – Protecting students from consequences that could impact their future.
• License Suspension – Fighting to prevent or reduce driver’s license suspensions.
• Administrative License Revocation (ALR) – Representing clients in ALR proceedings.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Requirements – Helping clients navigate IID installation and requirements.

At The Moore Law Firm, PLLC, our DUI attorneys in Monongalia are well-versed in the particularities of each type of DUI charge, ensuring that we can address every legal angle available. We recognize the significance of each detail that could potentially affect the resolution of a case, whether it involves medication interactions in a DUI Drugs charge or the calibration records in a breathalyzer test used in your case. These details are pivotal in the defense process and can greatly impact the outcome of a case.

Enhanced Penalties for Specific Circumstances

• DUI with a child passenger (under the age of 16) can lead to additional charges and penalties.
• High BAC: Offenders with a BAC over 0.15% may face more severe penalties.
• Repeat Offenders: Multiple DUI convictions lead to increased penalties, including longer license suspensions and extended jail time.

These penalties can have serious long-term consequences. You need an experienced Morgantown DUI lawyer who can help you understand your options and protect your future. At The Moore Law Firm, PLLC, we have decades of experience defending clients against DUI charges.

Local Knowledge of Monongalia Court Procedures

Our deep understanding of the Monongalia County court system is an invaluable asset. Local courts have their specific processes and procedural norms, and being familiar with these can be crucial in successfully navigating your DUI case. For instance, court appearances typically involve a series of procedural steps where punctuality and preparation can leave a lasting impression on the presiding judge.

Moreover, each jurisdiction might have its own methods of handling evidence or conducting plea negotiations. Our attorneys' presence within the local legal community ensures we are up-to-date with any changes in these procedures, and our relationships with various stakeholders can facilitate smoother communications and negotiations throughout the legal process. By leveraging this local knowledge, The Moore Law Firm, PLLC can craft a strategy that considers every procedural detail to better represent your interests.

Why Choose The Moore Law Firm, PLLC as Your DUI Attorneys in Monongalia County

Why should you choose The Moore Law Firm, PLLC? The answer is simple. Our firm doesn't operate on a high volume of cases. We take the time to fully understand the unique circumstances of each case. Each of our clients is treated as an individual, not just a case number.

What sets us apart:

• Personalized Service: Throughout the life of your case, you will have direct communication with trial attorney Jared Moore. He is highly accessible and reachable, providing personalized attention to every client.
• Experience & Dedication: Jared Moore has extensive experience in DUI defense and is committed to getting the best results for each client. He meticulously reviews the details of each case, ensuring no stone is left unturned.
• Focused Practice: We don’t operate on high volumes of cases, allowing us to dedicate the time and resources necessary for the best defense possible.

Navigating the DUI Process in West Virginia

The DUI process can be overwhelming, but understanding the steps ahead can help you feel more confident in your defense. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

1. Arrest and Booking:

• After a DUI arrest, you will be taken to the police station for booking, including fingerprinting and recording personal information. You have the right to remain silent during this time, and any statements you make can be used against you.

2. Initial Court Appearance:

• Your first court appearance will typically happen within a few days after your arrest. During this appearance, you will be informed of the charges against you and will have the opportunity to request bail. You should consult with our Morgantown DUI attorney before this appearance to understand your rights and options.

3. Preliminary Hearing:

• At the preliminary hearing, the judge will determine if there is enough evidence to proceed with the case. This is an important stage in the process, and an experienced DUI attorney can make a significant difference in challenging the evidence presented.

4. Plea Bargaining:

• Many DUI cases are resolved through plea bargaining, where your attorney negotiates with the prosecution to reduce the charges or penalties. Our DUI lawyers can advocate for the best possible outcome, whether that means reduced charges or an alternative resolution.

5. Trial:

• If your case goes to trial, our Morgantown DUI defense attorneys will vigorously represent you. We will examine all the evidence, call witnesses, and challenge any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

By understanding each stage of the DUI process, you can feel more prepared and empowered. Our team at The Moore Law Firm, PLLC is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring that you have the best possible defense against your DUI charges. Don’t face this challenge alone—reach out to us today for a consultation.

Defenses Against DUI Charges

There are many ways to challenge DUI charges. At The Moore Law Firm, PLLC, we analyze every detail of your case to find any potential defenses, including:

• Improper Stop or Arrest: If the police did not have a valid reason to stop you or if they violated your rights during the arrest, the evidence may be inadmissible in court.
• Field Sobriety Test Issues: Field sobriety tests are subjective, and numerous factors can impact their accuracy. These tests can often be challenged based on your physical condition, location, or weather.
• Breathalyzer and Blood Test Errors: Breathalyzer machines must be calibrated regularly. Errors in calibration or improper handling of blood samples can lead to inaccurate results.
• Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions can affect the results of a BAC test. We investigate these possibilities to ensure the test was valid.

Impact of DUI on Professional Licenses and Employment

A DUI conviction can impact your professional life, especially if you hold a license to practice in a regulated profession, such as healthcare, teaching, or driving. Additionally, a DUI conviction may affect employment opportunities or professional reputation.

If you are a student at a local institution like West Virginia University, a DUI charge can also affect your academic standing or your ability to secure certain internships or future job opportunities.

Our Morgantown DUI attorneys will work with you to mitigate the impact of a DUI charge on your career and ensure you understand the potential long-term consequences.

Success Stories from Our Morgantown DUI Clients

Years ago, a student in the medical profession with a very promising future was arrested for DUI after refusing the secondary intoximeter test. He engaged The Moore Law Firm to defend him. A decent plea offer was on the table, which most attorneys would have quickly encouraged their client to accept. Not us, though.

While carefully analyzing the evidence produced by the prosecutor, we discovered a small technical violation committed by the police officer during the DUI investigation. That technicality, which may have been overlooked by others, ultimately resulted in the DUI charge being dismissed and expunged. Without The Moore Law Firm’s knowledge, dedication, and attention to detail, that student’s future would have been a lot different. This is just one of many results that our Morgantown, WV DUI lawyers are proud to have secured for our clients.

Contact us today or call (304) 521-2451.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Immediately After a DUI Arrest in Monongalia County?

Following a DUI arrest in Monongalia County, your first steps can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Initially, it is important to remain calm and polite to law enforcement officers. Exercising your right to remain silent is crucial—communicate your willingness to comply with their instructions, but avoid discussing the details of your arrest until you have secured legal representation. Contacting an attorney at The Moore Law Firm, PLLC should be next on your list. Our team will guide you on the immediate legal steps to take, which may include securing your license and addressing any immediate legal filings required.

It is also imperative to document everything you can remember about your arrest as soon as possible. This includes times, locations, officer interactions, and any tests you performed. Such details can be critical for building your defense. Lastly, familiarize yourself with your court date and bail conditions to ensure compliance, demonstrating to the court your commitment to rectifying the situation responsibly.

How Can a DUI Conviction Affect My Future Opportunities?

Being convicted of a DUI in Monongalia County can have various long-term repercussions. Professionally, it could limit opportunities, especially if your work involves driving, holds a public trust position, or requires professional licensure. Employers conducting background checks can see your conviction, influencing their hiring decision. Financially, beyond fines and increased insurance premiums, your ability to retain certain sponsor-based opportunities or contracts can also be undermined.

On a personal level, educational opportunities and housing applications might also be affected. Colleges and universities, for instance, may review student conduct cases, and scholarships could be at risk following a DUI conviction. Being proactive about these potential impacts, such as enrolling in driving or alcohol education programs, can mitigate some fallout. Seeking legal advice early can provide guidance tailored to minimizing such repercussions. The Moore Law Firm, PLLC is committed to helping clients navigate these challenges, working towards outcomes that protect their futures.

What Happens If I Refuse a Breathalyzer Test in West Virginia?

Refusing a breathalyzer test in West Virginia can result in immediate and serious administrative consequences, as the state enforces implied consent laws. Under these laws, drivers are deemed to have consented to chemical testing once they choose to drive on state roads. Refusal to undergo testing can lead to automatic license suspension, often up to one year for first-time refusals, and a longer revocation period if coupled with prior offenses.

Additionally, refusal can be used as evidence of guilt in court during DUI proceedings. While this adds complexity to your defense, it is not insurmountable. Our attorneys can evaluate the circumstances surrounding your refusal to identify any rights violations or procedural errors during the arrest. It's imperative to engage with seasoned legal professionals at The Moore Law Firm, PLLC promptly to assess your situation thoroughly. We leverage our experience to address these specific charges and work diligently to safeguard your rights and driving privileges.

Contact The Moore Law Firm, PLLC online or call (304) 521-2451 today to speak with our Morgantown DUI attorney.