Fight Your DUI Or DWI Charges With An Oklahoma City Drunk Driving Defense Attorney
In Oklahoma, a DUI means driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, while DWI typically refers to driving while impaired at a lower blood alcohol content (BAC) threshold. Both carry real criminal consequences.
If you have been arrested on drunk driving charges, you are probably worried about your license, your record and your future. I am Dustin Compton, and I have over 15 years of experience as a DUI lawyer. I defend people charged with DUI and DWI in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County and Canadian County. I know how the system works, and I am ready to put that knowledge to work for you.
What You Need To Know About Oklahoma DUI And DWI Law
Oklahoma sets the BAC limit at .08% for most drivers. Officers may use a breathalyzer test or field sobriety tests to gather evidence, but those tests are not infallible. Breathalyzer devices must be properly calibrated and field sobriety tests are subject to officer interpretation and can be affected by medical conditions or fatigue.
Oklahoma also enforces an implied consent law, meaning that by driving in this state, you have agreed to chemical testing. Refusing a test can trigger license suspension separate from any criminal case. A misdemeanor DUI typically applies to first-time offenders, but prior offenses or a high BAC can elevate charges to a felony DUI with steeper DUI penalties.
When I take on a drunk driving defense case, I examine every angle available such as:
- Reviewing whether the traffic stop itself was legally justified
- Examining calibration records and the administration of the breathalyzer test
- Challenging the officer’s scoring of field sobriety tests
- Analyzing whether implied consent warnings were properly given
- Exploring options such as a plea bargain, diversion programs or expungement, where applicable
- Requesting an administrative license hearing to protect your driving privileges
A thorough case review from the start makes a real difference in how your defense takes shape. If you have questions about Oklahoma criminal defense options beyond DUI, I can address those as well.
Have Questions About Your DUI Case? Here Are Some Answers From An Experienced DUI Lawyer.
Below are answers to some of the most common concerns I hear from DUI clients in the Oklahoma City area.
What are the penalties for a first-time DUI in Oklahoma City?
A first-time misdemeanor DUI can result in up to one year in jail, fines of up to $1,000 and a driver’s license suspension. You may also need to install an ignition interlock device and complete a substance abuse assessment.
Will I lose my driver’s license after a DUI arrest in Oklahoma?
Not automatically. You typically have a limited window to request an administrative license hearing after your arrest. Missing that deadline can mean automatic suspension. If you also have concerns about how traffic violations affect your driving record, that is worth discussing as well.
How can an Oklahoma City DUI lawyer challenge a breathalyzer or field sobriety test?
Breathalyzer results can be questioned if the device was not properly maintained or if a medical condition affected the reading. Field sobriety tests can be challenged based on how they were administered or physical factors that affected your performance. Speaking with Dustin L. Compton, Attorney at Law, is the right first step.
Contact Me Today To Start Building Your DUI Or DWI Defense
A DUI or DWI charge is serious, but it is not the end of the road. As your DUI defense attorney, I will review your case thoroughly, explain your rights and work aggressively to reach a strong outcome. Deadlines move fast, including the window to request your administrative license hearing.
Call me at 405-907-2171 or visit my contact page to schedule your consultation. I serve clients throughout Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County and Canadian County.