Shallotte DUI Defense Attorney

DUI Defense Lawyer in Shallotte, NC

When you’re charged with driving under the influence (DUI), it can throw your entire life into disarray. Some people make a simple mistake or fall prey to a bad habit, but the consequences can be serious and far-reaching. The good news is that you’re not alone in dealing with this challenging situation. A skilled Shallotte DUI defense attorney can support you throughout the process.

Choose W. James Payne Law Firm

The W. James Payne Law Firm is well-known for protecting clients in DUI cases, and can pursue every legal option to help you move on with your life. Whether this is the first legal issue you’ve ever had or you’ve had previous charges, this talented legal team can offer the compassionate support you need, while also bringing a fierce pursuit of justice on your behalf in the courtroom. For related charges, you can also speak with an experienced Shallotte misdemeanor criminal defense lawyer at our firm.

What Are the Laws Regarding DUIs in North Carolina?

North Carolina law Section 20-138.1 provides insight into how the law defines DUI offenses. A person may be charged with impaired driving under the following conditions:

• They are deemed to be under the influence of an impairing substance by law enforcement.
• They have consumed enough alcohol to have a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or more, as determined by a chemical analysis.
• They have any amount of a Schedule I controlled substance in their system as described by G.S. 90-89.

These conditions mean that you’re sometimes at legal risk due to a simple misunderstanding or even at an officer’s discretion. But our legal team understands that being charged does not automatically equate to being guilty. It is essential to understand what is considered criminal intent in North Carolina when building a defense against these allegations. With our knowledge of DUI defense laws and case-specific experience, we can help you navigate this challenging time with confidence and clarity.

How Can a Shallotte DUI Defense Lawyer Help You?

When you hire a DUI defense attorney from our firm, you can take comfort in knowing that you have a team of passionate professionals supporting you. We can stand by you through all aspects of your DUI defense case, which usually starts with gathering evidence of what happened, as well as understanding your side of the story. We can also explain the difference between a felony and misdemeanor in North Carolina so you know exactly what is at stake. This is especially important in situations where a person feels they were wrongfully or unfairly charged.

Our lawyers can represent and guide you throughout the legal process. From initial hearings through the final verdict, we can advise you on what to say, how to respond to questions, and which outcome we should work toward together. We take pride in protecting the life and liberty of our clients, and we can put this strong approach to justice to work for you in your DUI defense case.

Common Reasons Why You Might Face a DUI Charge

There are several reasons a person may face a DUI charge. While some people assume it’s always due to a person acting irresponsibly, many mistakes and common errors can cause a person to face this specific legal issue.

• Overestimating your sobriety. Many people facing a DUI charge have never been in any type of legal trouble before. Sometimes, all it takes is one drink too many, and you could find yourself in court for the first time, which can add to the stress of the situation.
• Misunderstandings about the law. Not everyone is aware of all the substances that can cause a person to face a DUI charge. While it’s easy to assume it’s only alcohol, this error can lead to a nasty surprise and multiple legal issues.
• Potential mistakes by law enforcement. While every case is different, a law enforcement officer may misjudge a person’s impairment. This can be due to misinterpreted body signals, traffic errors taken out of context, or incorrect readings from field sobriety tests.

North Carolina aggressively prosecutes DUIs. In one part of the state, over 100 DUI arrests were made in 2025’s first quarter. While the state is committed to justice, so are we, and we can help you make a case for your freedom and potentially a better outcome.

FAQs

Can You Get Probation If You Have a DUI?

Yes, you can get probation if you have a DUI. In 2024, 65% of convictions resulted in unsupervised probation. The chance of this goes up if it’s your first offense, you didn’t harm anyone or damage any property while behind the wheel, and if you have a skilled attorney who understands DUI defense laws and case strategies.

What Court Handles DUI Offenses in Shallotte?

DUI offenses in Shallotte may be handled at the Brunswick County Courthouse. This is typically the case for first-time offenses. This court is located in District 13, which saw 792 DUI convictions in 2023. While more serious cases may be moved to higher courts in the state, your Shallotte DUI defense attorney can advise you on scheduling and locations.

Can You Talk Your Way Out of a DUI?

No, it is not advised to try to talk your way out of a DUI. Many people who have never experienced legal trouble, especially if they don’t feel themselves to be intoxicated, may try to smooth over their situation when stopped by an officer. This action may potentially give away information that can be used against you.

How Long Does a DUI Case Typically Take to Resolve?

The amount of time a DUI case typically takes to resolve can depend on several factors. Complexities in a case can result in the need for extensive evidence and can add time to your case. This type of evidence can include witness statements and video footage. Having to comply with the court’s schedule can also delay the process.

Schedule a Consultation With a DUI Defense Attorney in Shallotte

Whether your DUI charge was your first ever legal issue or not, the team at the W. James Payne Law Firm can treat your case with the seriousness it deserves. Mr. Payne has been a Shallotte local since 1988 and is passionate about helping those in the area.

As evidenced by the many positive reviews and accolades, this legal team is known throughout the state for a fierce pursuit of justice and a deep understanding of defense laws. If you’re ready to move on from a DUI matter and pursue the fairest outcome possible, reach out today.