DUI Lawyer? Or DWI Lawyer? What’s The Difference?
So what is the difference between a DUI lawyer and a DWI lawyer? Not a whole lot really. The two charges are similar in nature, but there are some slight differences. A lawyer is a lawyer, but let’s explain the subtle differences between what driving under the influence is, and what driving while intoxicated is. Yes, they seem like the exact same thing, but they really aren’t. Knowing the difference isn’t going to save you much in the terms of fines, or jail time, but at least you have a bit more knowledge! Hopefully you will use it to stay off the road while you’ve been drinking!
Driving under the influence, is really classified as being under the influence of some drug, but the officer was unable to tell exactly what drug it was. It is pretty much a blanket statement, referring to a charge being held against you. The officer couldn’t smell alcohol on your breath, but he knew that you were under the influence of some kind of chemical substance. Later urinalysis or blood tests will further determine his suspicions. This is exactly what the law falls under, an officers general suspicion that you are messed up at the time he pulled you over. He doesn’t have to do a blood alcohol test, and generally doesn’t make you perform many standing field tests either.
Driving while intoxicated means that the officer can clearly tell that you are messed up. He doesn’t need to perform a blood alcohol content test, because he can smell the liquor on your breath. There is no need for a field test, because you can’t even find the keys to shut the truck off. Face it, you have had one too many, and are in some big trouble. Luckily for you, a good DUI lawyer can usually keep you out of trouble on your first offense.