DWI Charges with BAC .15 or Higher in North Carolina

If you’re facing a DWI charge in Charlotte with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .15 or higher, the stakes couldn’t be higher. In North Carolina, this elevated BAC is classified as an aggravated offense, doubling the legal limit of .08. A conviction at this level can result in steep fines, mandatory jail time, the installation of an ignition interlock device, and a suspended driver’s license. The long-term effects of a conviction can ripple through your personal and professional life.

At Randall & Stump, Criminal Defense Attorneys, we know that everyone makes mistakes, but one moment shouldn’t define your future. Let us fight for you to minimize the consequences and protect your rights. Call (980) 237-4579 to schedule your free consultation.

How Are DWIs Punished in North Carolina?

Under North Carolina DWI laws, DWI charges are categorized into punishment levels ranging from Level 5 (the least severe) to Aggravated Level 1 (the harshest). These levels are determined by the presence of mitigating or aggravating factors in your case.

• Mitigating Factors: Circumstances that can reduce the severity of your penalties, such as slight impairment, completing a substance abuse evaluation, or driving under the influence of prescribed medication.
• Aggravating Factors: Conditions that increase the seriousness of the offense, like reckless driving, causing an accident, or having a BAC of .15 or higher can be considered aggravating factors.

For example:

• A Level 5 DWI carries penalties including 24 hours to 60 days in jail and fines up to $200.
• A Level 1 DWI can lead to 30 days to 2 years in jail and fines as high as $4,000.
• An Aggravated Level 1 DWI is reserved for the most severe cases, with potential sentences of up to 3 years in jail and $10,000 in fines.

What Makes a BAC of .15 or Higher a Serious Offense?

A BAC of .15 or higher isn’t just a number—it’s an aggravating factor that significantly elevates the penalties for a DWI. North Carolina law treats this as a more dangerous level of impairment because drivers at this BAC are at an exponentially higher risk of causing severe accidents.

Consequences for a BAC of .15 or Higher Include:

• Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device: Drivers must install a device that requires a breath sample to start the vehicle. This adds financial and logistical burdens to your daily life.
• Higher Fines: Fines can reach up to $4,000, in addition to court costs and fees.
• Longer License Suspensions: A high BAC often results in a more extended suspension period, making it harder to maintain employment and personal responsibilities.
• Increased Jail Time: Sentencing is often harsher, with a greater likelihood of mandatory incarceration.

The Ripple Effects of a High BAC DWI Conviction

A conviction for a DWI with a BAC of .15 or higher doesn’t just result in legal penalties—it can have lasting personal and social consequences.

• Professional Impact: A DWI on your record may disqualify you from certain jobs, especially in licensed fields like healthcare, education, or transportation.
• Reputation and Relationships: Friends, family, and colleagues may view you differently after a conviction, potentially leading to social isolation.
• Background Checks: A DWI will appear on criminal background checks, making it harder to volunteer, rent housing, or obtain professional certifications.

How Randall & Stump Can Protect Your Future

Navigating a high BAC DWI charge requires experienced legal guidance. At Randall & Stump, we take a comprehensive approach to every case. This includes:

• Challenging the Evidence: Was the BAC test administered correctly? Were your rights violated during the arrest?
• Reducing the Charges: We work to identify mitigating factors or procedural errors to lower the severity of your penalties.
• Minimizing Penalties: Even if a conviction cannot be avoided, we strive to secure probation, reduced fines, or alternative sentencing options.

Our goal is to protect your future and give you the best chance to move forward with your life.

We Know Charlotte & DWI Laws

DWI cases in Mecklenburg County courts require a thorough understanding of local laws and processes. Judges and prosecutors often take a hard stance on high BAC offenses, but our team has the experience to build a strong defense tailored to the nuances of the Charlotte legal system.

Contact Our BAC Over .15 Lawyers in Charlotte, NC Today

If you have been arrested for driving while impaired, do not wait any longer to hire a DWI attorney. The team at Randall & Stump, Criminal Defense Attorneys is here to help you. Call us at (980) 237-4579 or get in touch with us online to set up a consultation now.