Protecting Your Rights And Your Future

Arrested For DWI? We Are The Law Firm Who Can Help You.

Last updated on August 15, 2024

If you’ve been charged with DUI/DWI, you are facing serious criminal charges with serious criminal penalties. It is important to speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer who knows what it takes to defeat DWI charges, reduce fines and help you keep your driver’s license.

Located in Rogers, the attorneys at Hatfield Harris, PLLC, have been handling DUI/DWI cases throughout Northwest Arkansas for more than 20 years. We will defend your rights in court and protect your freedom, your future and your record.

Understanding DWI Laws In Rogers, Arkansas

In Rogers and throughout Benton County, driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a grave offense. According to Arkansas State Statute 5-65-103, it’s against the law to drive a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher. For commercial drivers, the limit is .04%, and for drivers under 21, it’s .02%. It’s important to remember that even if your blood alcohol level is below the threshold, you can still be charged with DWI if an officer determines that your driving ability was impaired by either alcohol or drugs.

Multiple And Felony DWI Defense

DWI charges in Arkansas escalate with each offense, carrying increasingly severe penalties:

First offense: Potential jail time, fines, license suspension and mandatory alcohol education
Second offense: Similar penalties to the first, but with longer jail time and license suspension
Third offense: Includes a mandatory 90-day jail sentence, extendable up to one year
Fourth offense: Classified as a felony, carrying fines up to $5,000, one to six years in jail and license suspension for up to four years

In Benton County and surrounding areas, our attorneys at Hatfield Harris, PLLC, have extensive experience defending clients against multiple and felony DWI charges. We understand the nuances of local law enforcement practices and court procedures, which allows us to build strong, tailored defenses for our clients.

How We Can Help You Fight DWI Charges

At Hatfield Harris, PLLC, we’re committed to providing robust DWI defense for our clients in Rogers and throughout Benton County. Here’s how we can assist you:

Thorough case evaluation: We meticulously examine every aspect of your case, from the initial traffic stop to the administration of sobriety tests.
Personalized defense strategy: We work closely with you to develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.
Protection of your rights: Our attorneys ensure your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process.
Negotiation with prosecutors: When appropriate, we negotiate with prosecutors to seek reduced charges or penalties.
Representation in court: We provide strong representation in court, arguing vigorously on your behalf.
Guidance through administrative processes: We assist you in navigating DMV hearings to protect your driving privileges.

With our team at Hatfield Harris, PLLC, you’re not just getting a lawyer; you’re gaining a dedicated advocate who will fight tirelessly for your rights and future in Rogers and the surrounding Benton County area.

Our attorneys don’t plead out cases because it is easier, and we won’t compromise our clients’ rights. Instead, we use every legal tool in our arsenal to protect our clients’ interests and defeat their DUI charges.

We look beyond the police report to uncover every possible incident of police misconduct. Did the police have probable cause to stop you and test you? Were field sobriety tests properly administered? Was the breathalyzer calibrated correctly?

If your constitutional rights were violated in any way, we will fight to have your charges dismissed.

Common Questions About Arkansas Drunk Driving Charges

When you face allegations of drunk driving, you will likely have serious questions about your future, your license and your legal rights. At Hatfield Harris, PLLC, we are proud to provide clear, concise answers to your questions in this critical moment.

What is the legal limit in Arkansas?

Under Arkansas law, the police can charge a person with driving while intoxicated (DWI) with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher, or if their alcohol consumption impairs their ability to drive safely. However, it is possible to face drunk driving charges at lower levels in several situations. People under the age of 21 can be charged with drunk driving at a BAC of just .02%, and commercial drivers could face charges with a BAC of .04% or higher.

Can I refuse to take a breath test in Arkansas?

While the authorities cannot force you to take a breath test, Arkansas has what is known as an implied consent law. This means that simply by driving on Arkansas roads, you consent to sobriety testing. Refusing a test can lead to additional penalties.

Can I get a DWI for driving something other than a car?

While most people are aware that getting behind the wheel of a car or truck after drinking can lead to charges, they might not know that drunk driving charges can include a variety of motor vehicles. These include golf carts, riding lawn mowers and motorized boats.

Do I need an attorney if I’m accused of DWI in Arkansas?

DWI charges can have a long-lasting impact on your life, and seeking legal guidance from a skilled attorney can be an essential way to protect your rights. A lawyer with experience representing people accused of drunk driving can help you understand your rights, the legal process and any defenses available to you.

Contact A Bentonville Drunk Driving Defense Attorney

At Hatfield Harris, PLLC, we defend clients against the criminal and administrative consequences of a DWI conviction. If you have been charged with DWI, you have a limited amount of time to request a hearing in front of the Arkansas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and protect your license. Protect your license and defeat your criminal charges. Contact Hatfield Harris, PLLC, at 479-250-1962 to speak with an experienced Rogers DWI attorney in a free consultation.