DWI Attorneys Serving Hampton, Manchester, and the Seacoast Region of New Hampshire

Many people who never expect to need a criminal defense attorney suddenly find that they do after being arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI). DUI is also referred to as DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) or OWI (Operating While Intoxicated). Whatever you call it, and whether or not you thought you were fine to be behind the wheel, driving while intoxicated is a serious charge that can have life-changing consequences. You need to be represented, as early as possible in the process, by experienced New Hampshire DWI attorneys.

Attorneys Amy Beaton and Larissa Kiers have over 50 years combined experience as defense attorneys and litigators. They have handled numerous New Hampshire DUI/DWI cases throughout their careers, protecting drivers from both criminal penalties and administrative consequences like the suspension or revocation of a license. With their extensive knowledge of the system, Amy and Larissa will give you dependable, straightforward advice and the powerful advocacy fueled by experience and genuine concern for your future.

At Beaton & Kiers, we know that being charged with DWI can disrupt your life and cause great anxiety about your future. Our DWI lawyers will give you the support you need to get through this challenging process. Contact Beaton & Kiers today to schedule a consultation.

Our Attorneys Help You Navigate New Hampshire Drunk Driving Laws

Unlike in some other states, there are no lesser penalties for lower levels of intoxication while driving in New Hampshire. All cases are charged as DWI, and all are crimes. You may be charged with:

• Class B misdemeanor first offense DWI
• Class A misdemeanor aggravated DWI
• Class B felony aggravated DWI
• DWI, subsequent offense

Whether a DWI is considered “aggravated” depends on whether there are additional factors, including a very high blood alcohol concentration (BAC), speeding, or an attempt to evade police. Naturally, consequences are more severe for subsequent offenses, but even a first-time offender may be subject to jail time, especially if there are aggravating factors.

If you have been arrested for DWI in New Hampshire, you also have more than criminal penalties such as fines and jail or prison time to worry about. If your BAC was above the legal limit, or if you refused to submit to chemical testing at the time of your arrest, you will be subject to an administrative license suspension (ALS). You are entitled to a hearing regarding the validity of an ALS, but you must request the hearing within 30 days of the earlier of either your arrest or receipt of a notice of suspension, or else you waive your right to a hearing. An ALS typically lasts for 180 days or two years, depending on the circumstances.

Consequences of your license being suspended (or revoked in a more serious case) include the inability to drive to work, school, medical appointments, or errands. You may be disqualified for jobs that require a clean driving record, and if you have a commercial driver license (CDL), a DWI in New Hampshire can jeopardize it, even if you live out of state.

Even if you are not a commercial driver, a DWI in New Hampshire can follow you to your home state and have consequences for your driving privileges there. And, of course, a DWI conviction will cause your automobile insurance rates to skyrocket, and may even make you ineligible for some coverage.

In short, there is a great deal on the line if you have been arrested for DWI in New Hampshire. To avoid costly consequences, you should invest in the services of a skilled DWI lawyer.

Have questions? Ready to get started? Call (603) 769-3491 today to schedule a consultation.