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Las Vegas First DUI Defense Attorney
Defending Against First DUI Charges in Nevada
Facing your first DUI charge can be a daunting experience. The uncertainty of what lies ahead, the potential penalties, and the fear of a criminal record can be overwhelming. With proper legal representation, you can navigate these uncertain waters to protect your rights. With over 27 years of experience, Goodman Law Group is well-equipped to help you understand, contest, and potentially beat your first DUI charge.
We believe in empowering you with the right knowledge, preparing you for what's ahead, and equipping you with a tailored defense strategy. As a board-certified trial lawyer, Attorney Goodman offers his legal expertise and can be a dominant presence in the courtroom on your behalf.
Call (702) 825-7854 or contact our firm online to schedule your free consultation with our first DUI lawyer in Las Vegas.
What Constitutes a DUI Charge?
Before looking at the defenses and penalties for a DUI charge, you need to understand what actually counts as a DUI. The laws may seem clear, but small details often matter, so you should be fully informed.
- Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC). Driving with a BAC of 0.08% or higher is typically considered “under the influence.” This percentage is the standard for drivers over 21. However, lower thresholds apply to commercial drivers and those under 21.
- Impairment by Drugs. DUI does not only apply to alcohol. If you drive after taking prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicine, or illegal substances that impair your ability to drive, prosecutors can charge you with Drug DUI.
- Observable Impairment. Even if your BAC is below 0.08%, officers can charge you with DUI if your driving suggests impairment. Swerving, erratic braking, or unusual behavior may lead law enforcement to suspect impaired driving.
- Refusal to Test. Refusing to take a breathalyzer or blood test when suspected of DUI can trigger automatic penalties in Nevada. You should know the rights and consequences that apply where you drive.
- Zero Tolerance for Underage Drivers. Drivers under 21 face strict rules. Any detectable amount of alcohol in their system can result in a Underage DUI charge. These laws aim to discourage underage drinking and driving.
What are the Penalties for a First DUI Conviction in Nevada?
DUI charges are taken seriously in Clark County and across Nevada. The penalties can be severe for first-time offenders, but with an experienced attorney, you stand a better chance of receiving a favorable outcome. Potential penalties include:
- License Suspension. A first-time DUI offense can lead to a suspension of your driving privileges for 90 days by Nevada’s Department of Motor Vehicles. A restricted license can be temporarily granted after 45 days if the defendant has not committed any further offenses.
- Fines. Up to $1,000 in fines, in addition to court costs (currently around $600 in Nevada)
- Suspended Jail Sentence. Those convicted may not have to face jail time unless they violate any terms of their sentence; if this occurs, they face up to six months of jail time or 96 hours of community service.
- Mandatory DUI Classes. Offenders may be required to attend educational classes on alcohol and its effects or undergo an alcohol assessment. This is at the defendant’s expense. They may also be required to attend a Nevada Victim Impact Panel lecture, also at their expense.
- Installation of a Breath Interlock Device. If the defendant’s BAC exceeded 0.18 at the time of their arrest, they may be mandated to install and maintain an ignition interlock device on their vehicle for a period of three years, at their own expense.
Possible Defenses Against First DUI Charges
A strong defense against a DUI charge needs deep legal knowledge and a focused strategy. With our years of experience, Goodman Law Group can pursue various defenses based on the details of your case.
Why Choose Us: Expertise, Dedication, Results
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Comprehensive Criminal DefenseWhether facing charges for DUI, violent crimes, or white-collar offenses, Goodman Law Group provides aggressive representation with a focus on achieving the best possible outcomes for clients in both state and federal courts.
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Local Expertise, National ImpactAs a lifelong Las Vegas resident, Ross C. Goodman’s deep knowledge of local laws, courts, and legal professionals gives his clients a distinct advantage, while his nationally recognized legal skills elevate his reputation beyond the state.
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Proven Track RecordWith nearly 30 years of experience and a history of high-profile victories, Ross C. Goodman is a top-tier criminal defense attorney, known for securing dismissals, "Not Guilty" verdicts, and favorable resolutions.
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Personalized, Successful DefenseEvery case at Goodman Law Group is handled with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring personalized strategies that have resulted in reduced sentences, acquittals, and alternative legal resolutions for thousands of clients.
Client Success Stories
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"He will fight for your rights and get you the best results."My family and I are very grateful we hired Mr. Ross Goodman to represent me. We can’t thank Mr. Ross enough for what he did.
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"He makes things happen, and he has all the connections for the best outcome."Ross is a phenomenal lawyer!! He helped us out of a rough situation and we will be forever grateful. The charges were reduced greatly and we only have to complete classes following a DUI, which was 3x over the limit. He makes things happen, and he has all the connections for the best outcome. We are ecstatic over the outcome of our case. We will always recommend Ross, to anyone and everyone!
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"He got me an excellent result, better than I could have expected."I can't say enough good things about Ross and his team. He kept me fully informed, answered my questions promptly and personally, and was just there for me. I'd definitely recommend him without any hesitation.- Howard R.
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"I highly recommend him."There's not enough stars for Ross Goodman. I highly recommend him for all your legal needs. I am a very satisfied client, and for once in my life I feel that there is a good lawyer that actually fights for justice and gets the job done instead of just making deals.
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"Thank you from the bottom of my heart!"
To say thank you doesn't seem like it's enough but thank you so much. Lonnie and I appreciate all you did to get the desired results for Jonathan. Am sure he is appreciative as well.
Thank you for being there when we needed you. It's been my pleasure to have worked with you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Sincerely,
Pam K.
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"He really saved my future and reputation!"So thankful for Mr. Ross Goodman taking on my case. Sometimes bad things happen even to good people and you're left to make decisions that could affect your livelihood. I knew going into my case I wanted the best lawyer defending me and the best is Ross.- Taniel C.
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"We are extremely grateful!"Ross Goodman and his team took care of us during a very uncertain time and helped to guide us through the entire legal process. We greatly appreciate how his team, especially Tiffanie, communicated with us and went above and beyond on our behalf. We are extremely grateful! Thank you Ross!- Susan L.
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"You don't find lawyers like him every day."If someone wants competence, experience, straightforwardness, and results along with a great personality then they need Ross Goodman. He's the only attorney I would recommend. The quality I received with Ross cannot be overstated. He's the best!
