Persons driving in Virginia are subject to the implied consent law. This means a Virginia resident or out-of-state driver operating a motor vehicle in the commonwealth is deemed to have given consent to have their blood, breath, or both blood and breath taken for a...
DUI
Be safer for James Madison U’s homecoming
Now that it’s officially autumn, the Shenandoah Valley is ablaze in the colorful foliage of the season. That, along with the building excitement of the big homecoming weekend at James Madison University, only a few weeks away, has many university students and locals...
The insurance impacts of a DUI conviction
Driving under the influence (DUI) offenses are significantly more serious than speeding and other minor traffic infractions. It is a crime rather than a ticketable traffic offense. State prosecutors bring criminal charges against drivers who operate vehicles while...
What defenses exist for under‑21 DUI charges in Virginia?
Getting charged with a DUI under the age of 21 creates serious consequences. Virginia enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy for underage drivers, so even a minimal amount of alcohol can trigger legal trouble. However, a charge does not guarantee a conviction. ...
What is the penalty for first time dui in Virginia?
The penalty for a first-time DUI in Virginia is a minimum $250 fine, a one-year driver's license suspension and potential jail time. This happens almost immediately, disrupting your daily life and creating immediate challenges for work, family responsibilities, and...
3 medications that increase DUI risk due to alcohol interactions
There are two primary legal justifications for driving under the influence (DUI) charges under state law. The first is an elevated blood alcohol concentration (BAC). Individuals who fail chemical testing may be subject to arrest and prosecution. The other main reason...
Professional implications of a DUI conviction in Virginia
A DUI conviction in Virginia carries serious consequences beyond legal penalties. It can significantly impact your professional life, affecting job stability and future career opportunities. Understanding these implications helps you make informed choices if facing...
Talking to your teen about the consequences of drunk driving
As soon as your teenager receives their driver's permit (and before), they are bombarded with DUI public service announcements (PSAs). We're all familiar with "Stay Alive, Don't Drink & Drive," "Friends Don't Let Friends Drive Drunk" and "Buzzed Driving is Drunk...
3 things drivers may not know about field sobriety tests
Police officers who suspect someone of a driving under the influence (DUI) offense have to gather evidence. One of the ways they prove intoxication is by requesting a chemical test. However, drivers do not have to submit to chemical tests until officers already have...
What factors impact your blood alcohol concentration level?
When a cop pulls you over for suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI), the result and outcome of your case often hinges on a single number: your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). There are many factors that can influence your BAC level, and understanding these...


