If you were pulled over and charged with DWI (also known as DUI in Louisiana), you’re probably feeling a mix of fear, frustration, and confusion. One mistake, one night, or even one misunderstood traffic stop can quickly spiral into a criminal case that threatens your license, your job, and your future. At James and Bradley, we defend real people facing DWI charges in St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Livingston, and Washington Parishes. And we know from experience, just because you were arrested doesn’t mean you’ll be convicted.
What Is a DWI (DUI) in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, driving while intoxicated means operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher. But you can still be charged, even with a lower BAC, if the officer believes alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications impair your ability to operate a vehicle.
We see these charges all the time in:
- Covington and Slidell (St. Tammany Parish)
- Hammond and Amite (Tangipahoa Parish)
- Denham Springs and Walker (Livingston Parish)
- Franklinton and Bogalusa (Washington Parish)
What Are the Penalties for a First-Time DWI in Louisiana?
Even a first offense can have serious consequences:
- Up to 6 months in jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- License suspension (even before you’re convicted)
- Mandatory substance abuse classes
- Installation of an ignition interlock device
- Higher insurance rates and a permanent record
And if your BAC was .15 or higher? The penalties increase significantly.
What If You Refused the Breath Test?
Refusing a breathalyzer in Louisiana triggers an automatic license suspension through the DMV, even if your case gets dismissed later in court. You do have the right to challenge the suspension, and time is critical. You only have 30 days to request an administrative hearing.
How James and Bradley Can Help
We’ve handled hundreds of DUI cases across southeast Louisiana. That means we know what works in the courtrooms of St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Livingston, and Washington Parish. We know the local prosecutors, judges, and law enforcement procedures, and how to challenge:
- Illegal traffic stops
- Faulty breathalyzer equipment
- Unreliable field sobriety tests
- Mishandled blood or urine samples
- Violations of your constitutional rights
We fight for reduced charges, license reinstatement, and in many cases, dismissal.
Call 985-276-4740 today for a free, confidential consultation with the DWI defense team at James and Bradley. Let’s take back control of your case before it takes control of your life.
Don’t walk into court alone. Whether your DWI arrest happened in Covington, Hammond, Franklinton, or Livingston, you need a skilled criminal defense attorney on your side.