Nashua Aggravated DUI Defense Attorney

Skilled Defense for Your Serious DUI Charges in New Hampshire

In certain circumstances, a person who has been arrested for DUI (driving under the influence) may face more than just standard DUI charges. When anyone is charged with DUI after having been involved in a motor vehicle accident, and another individual sustained injuries in that accident, that person will face charges for Aggravated DUI.

Charged with aggravated DUI? Call (603) 261-2214 or contact our firm online. Our Nashua aggravated DUI lawyers are ready to give you the legal assistance you need.

Understanding Aggravated DUI Charges

An aggravated DUI charge involves factors that escalate the severity of the offense compared to a standard DUI. In New Hampshire, several circumstances can elevate a DUI charge to aggravated DUI, including:

• High Blood Alcohol Content (BAC): If your BAC is significantly above the legal limit, typically 0.16% or higher, it can lead to aggravated DUI charges.
• Reckless Driving: Engaging in behaviors such as excessive speeding, erratic lane changes, or other dangerous driving patterns while under the influence can contribute to aggravated DUI charges.
• Repeat Offenses: A history of prior DUI convictions can increase the severity of the current charge, leading to aggravated DUI status.
• Endangering Others: If your actions while driving under the influence have endangered the safety of others, such as causing a serious accident or injury, the charges may be elevated.
• Driving with a Suspended License: If you are caught driving under the influence while your license is suspended due to a prior DUI conviction, you may face aggravated charges.

Penalties for Aggravated DUI in New Hampshire

The penalties for an aggravated DUI are significantly harsher than those for a standard DUI. These can include:

Jail Time

• First Offense: Minimum jail time is generally 7 days, but it can be as much as 1 year.
• Second Offense: Minimum of 30 days to a maximum of 1 year in jail. 
• Third or Subsequent Offenses: Sentences can range from 60 days to several years.

Fines

• First Offense: Can range from $750 to $2,000 or more. 
• Second Offense: Fines can increase to between $1,500 and $4,000.
• Third or Subsequent Offenses: These can be even higher, often exceeding $5,000.

License Suspension

• First Offense: This typically results in a license suspension of at least 9 months to 2 years. 
• Second Offense: For a second aggravated DUI, the license suspension is generally longer, ranging from 1 to 4 years.
• Third or Subsequent Offenses: A third or subsequent aggravated DUI offense can lead to a license suspension of 4 years or more, or even a lifetime revocation in severe cases.

Mandatory Programs

Offenders are often required to complete alcohol or drug education or treatment programs. Additional penalties may include mandatory community service, which requires offenders to perform a certain number of hours of public service.

Probation

In addition to jail time, offenders may be placed on probation, which can last several years. During probation, individuals must comply with various conditions, such as regular check-ins with a probation officer, abstaining from alcohol, and avoiding further legal issues.

Criminal Record

A conviction for aggravated DUI results in a permanent criminal record, which can impact future employment opportunities, professional licensing, and other aspects of life. It can also affect your ability to travel or secure housing.

Civil Consequences

An aggravated DUI conviction can lead to significantly higher auto insurance rates or difficulty obtaining insurance coverage. In some cases, the offender’s vehicle may be impounded, leading to additional costs and inconvenience.

Defending Against Aggravated DUI Charges

An effective defense strategy is crucial when facing aggravated DUI charges. The legal team at Bernazzani Law utilizes various approaches to challenge and mitigate the impact of these charges. Key strategies may include:

• Questioning Evidence: Scrutinizing the evidence against you, such as breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests, and police procedures, to identify any inaccuracies or violations of your rights.
• Challenging BAC Results: If your BAC was measured, we will examine the calibration and maintenance records of the testing equipment and any potential procedural errors during testing.
• Assessing Police Conduct: Evaluating whether the police followed proper protocols during your arrest and if any rights violations occurred.
• Negotiating Plea Deals: In some cases, negotiating a plea deal with the prosecution to reduce the charges or penalties can be a strategic approach.

Why Choose Bernazzani Law to Defend You?

Bernazzani Law offers experienced and committed legal representation for those facing aggravated DUI charges in Nashua. Our approach focuses on a thorough investigation of your case, strategic defense planning, and unwavering advocacy to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.

Our team is dedicated to providing personalized attention, understanding the nuances of your case, and crafting a defense tailored to your unique circumstances. We aim to minimize the consequences of an aggravated DUI charge and work diligently to ensure your interests are represented effectively.

Contact Bernazzani Law to discuss your situation with a Nashua aggravated DUI attorney who is committed to defending your rights.

Call at (603) 261-2214 or reach out to us online to schedule a consultation. Your future and freedom are paramount, and our Nashua aggravated DUI lawyer are here to stand by your side every step of the way.