Charged with DUI/DWI? Your Future Is at Stake—We’re Here to Help

Facing a DUI or DWI charge can feel overwhelming and isolating. You’re likely worried about your freedom, your job, your family, and what this means for your future. At Ratliff Jackson, we understand the fear and uncertainty you’re experiencing, and we’re here to stand by your side. With a thoughtful and strategic approach, we’ll help you navigate this difficult time and fight for the best possible outcome.

Why You’re Not Alone When You Work with Ratliff Jackson

We know how life-changing DUI and DWI charges can be, and we’re committed to helping you through this. Here’s how we can support you:

We See the Whole Picture: You’re not just a case file to us. We take the time to understand your story and the circumstances leading to your charges, crafting a defense that reflects your unique situation.

We Challenge the System: DUI/DWI cases rely heavily on technical evidence like breathalyzer results and field sobriety tests, but these are far from foolproof. We uncover errors and procedural violations that could work in your favor.

We Fight to Keep You Moving Forward: A suspended license can disrupt every aspect of your life. We work to protect your ability to drive and minimize disruptions to your daily responsibilities.

We’re Here Every Step of the Way: From answering your questions to advocating for you in court, we’re dedicated to ensuring you feel supported and informed throughout this process.

How We Protect Your Rights and Your Future

At Ratliff Jackson, we offer comprehensive legal services designed to address every aspect of a DUI/DWI case. Here’s how we can help:

Looking Deeper: Examining the Evidence Against You

We thoroughly investigate every detail of your case, including:

Breathalyzer and Blood Tests: These tests aren’t always reliable. We check for issues like improper calibration, mishandled samples, or flawed procedures that could undermine the results.

Field Sobriety Tests: Many factors, like medical conditions or weather, can affect these tests. We challenge their reliability in court.

Police Conduct: From how the traffic stop was initiated to how you were treated during the arrest, we evaluate whether your rights were violated.

Fighting Back Against Procedural Errors

Even small mistakes by law enforcement can make a big difference in your case. Common errors include:

• Pulling you over unlawfully.
• Administering sobriety tests incorrectly.
• Failing to follow proper protocols during your arrest.

If we identify these errors, we can argue to suppress evidence or dismiss the case entirely.

Protecting Your License at Administrative Hearings

A DUI/DWI arrest often triggers a separate process with the DMV that can lead to a license suspension. We represent you in these hearings, fighting to keep you on the road while your case proceeds.

Exploring Alternatives to Jail

We work to negotiate reduced charges or alternative penalties, such as:

• Alcohol education programs.
• Probation or community service.
• Diversion programs designed to help first-time offenders avoid a criminal record.

Standing Up for You in Court

If your case goes to trial, we’ll be by your side, presenting a strong and persuasive defense. Our goal is to highlight flaws in the prosecution’s case and ensure your voice is heard.

Helping You Move Forward After a Conviction

If you’ve already been convicted of a DUI/DWI, we can help you explore options like appealing the decision, reducing your sentence, or seeking expungement to clear your record.

The Types of DUI/DWI Cases We Handle

No matter the circumstances of your case, we have the experience to help. Our team defends clients facing:

• First-Time DUI/DWI Charges: If this is your first offense, we’ll guide you through the process and work to minimize penalties.
• Repeat Offenses: The stakes are higher for second or third offenses. We develop a robust defense to reduce penalties and protect your future.
• Aggravated DUI/DWI: Cases involving extremely high blood alcohol content (BAC) levels or other aggravating factors like accidents or injuries.
• Underage DUI: Representing drivers under 21 accused of drinking and driving under zero-tolerance laws.
• Drug-Related DUIs: Whether it involves prescription medication or illegal substances, we’ll help you fight charges of driving under the influence of drugs.
• Commercial Driver DUI/DWI: If you hold a CDL, we’ll work to protect your license and career while building your defense.

We Help You Take Back Control

A DUI/DWI charge doesn’t just affect you—it impacts your family, your job, and your peace of mind. That’s why we’re here to help people from all walks of life, including:

• First-Time Offenders: If you’ve never been in trouble before, the legal system can feel confusing and intimidating. We’ll provide the guidance and support you need to get through
• Repeat Offenders: For those facing harsher penalties, we’ll fight to minimize the impact and help you rebuild.
• Commercial Drivers: Your livelihood is on the line, and we’ll do everything we can to protect it.
• Families of Underage Drivers: If your child has been charged with underage drinking and driving, we’ll work to protect their future and limit the long-term consequences.

Answers to Your Most Pressing Questions

What are the penalties for DUI/DWI?      
Penalties vary based on your BAC, prior offenses, and other circumstances but can include fines, jail time, probation, license suspension, and mandatory alcohol education programs.

Can I fight a DUI/DWI charge?     
Yes. Many cases can be successfully challenged, especially if there were errors in testing procedures, police conduct, or evidence collection.

How long will my license be suspended?   
License suspensions depend on your case but can range from a few months to several years. Administrative hearings can provide opportunities to contest or shorten the suspension.

What happens if I refuse a breathalyzer test?      
Refusal can result in automatic penalties like license suspension, but it may also limit the evidence available to the prosecution.

What is the legal BAC limit?          
The legal BAC is 0.08% for adults, 0.04% for commercial drivers, and often 0.02% or lower for drivers under 21.

Can a DUI/DWI be expunged?      
In some cases, a conviction can be removed from your record after completing specific requirements.

What should I do right after a DUI/DWI arrest?
Stay calm, avoid making incriminating statements, and contact a DUI defense attorney immediately.

Are penalties harsher for repeat offenses?
Yes, repeat offenses often carry longer jail sentences, higher fines, and extended license suspensions.

How do police errors impact my case?      
Procedural mistakes or violations of your rights can lead to evidence being suppressed or charges being reduced.

Can I avoid jail time for a DUI/DWI charge?      
Many first-time offenders qualify for alternatives like probation, community service, or alcohol education programs.

You Deserve a Second Chance—Let Us Help You Fight for It

A DUI or DWI charge doesn’t have to define you. At Ratliff Jackson, we believe in second chances and are committed to helping you move forward. We’ll fight for your rights, work to minimize the consequences, and help you get your life back on track.

Contact us today for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming your future.