DWI / DUI Resources

Get information and insights into DWI and DUI law from the NC DWI Defense Center.

NC DWI and DUI Resources

A driving while impaired (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI) arrest can mean jail time and court fines, loss of driving privileges, increased insurance rates, employment consequences, and financial uncertainty.

These issues are magnified by the fact that DWI/DUI law is one of the most complex areas of criminal law in the State of North Carolina.

To help you understand DWI / DUI law and prepare your for your appearance in court.

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DWI / DUI

NC DWI FAQ

by Minick Law | Feb 28, 2020 | DUI DWI

Consequences of a DWI Will I go to jail if I am convicted of a DWI in North Carolina? What can a judge require of me if I'm convicted of a DWI? Will I be allowed to drive after getting a DWI? When can I drive after a DWI? Will getting a DWI affect my job? Will getting...

DWI Basics and Definitions

by Minick Law | Feb 28, 2020 | DUI DWI

What is a 30-Day Civil Revocation? A 30-Day Civil Revocation is a civil punishment resulting from a DWI. Although typically a revocation of a license requires a conviction for a DWI, in North Carolina, a person can have their license revoked for the following reasons:...

Limited Driving Privileges

by Minick Law | Feb 28, 2020 | DUI DWI

In what situations will I have to install an Interlock Ignition Device in my car? An individual will have to install an Interlock Ignition Device in their car, regardless of what level they are sentenced to, if they register a 0.15 BAC or higher. The Interlock device...

Was My DWI Charge / Stop Legal?

by Minick Law | Feb 28, 2020 | DUI DWI

Should I have been read my Miranda Rights during my DWI Arrest? Many people are shocked when an officer arrests a person without reading Miranda rights and wonder about the legal impact of the failure to advise Miranda rights. Generally, a suspect’s oral or written...

Dismissing DWI / Fighting DWI Charge

by Minick Law | Feb 28, 2020 | DUI DWI

Can I Get the District Attorney to Dismiss My DWI Charge? Many people wonder if a district attorney (DA) will dismiss a DWI in North Carolina, if it is the person’s first offense, or if they have a perfect driving record. In North Carolina it is extremely rare for a...

Consequences of a DWI

by Minick Law | Feb 27, 2020 | DUI DWI, Miscellaneous

Our law firm is in the business of providing information to clients. Information is power. Knowing the consequences that can stem from a DWI charge allows for preparation and planning. Living in fear of the consequences of a charge is not helpful. Moreover, before...

I Got a DWI, What Do I Do? Take Extreme Ownership

by Minick Law | Feb 27, 2020 | DUI DWI

The client who owns his DWI can look at the circumstances which led to the charge and decide never to allow them to happen again.

Miranda Rights and DWI

by Minick Law | Dec 19, 2019 | DUI DWI, Dui in NC

What if the police didn’t read my Miranda Rights during my DWI Arrest? Many people are shocked when an officer arrests a person without reading Miranda rights and wonder about the legal impact of the failure to advise Miranda rights. Generally, a suspect’s oral or...

Should I Get a Lawyer for a DWI?

by Minick Law | Dec 17, 2019 | DUI DWI

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When Can You Drive After a DWI?

by Minick Law | Dec 17, 2019 | DUI DWI, Limited Driving Privilege

Dealing with the aftermath of a DWI? Here are 7 facts you need to know about when you can drive again: If a person’s license is revoked for 30 days as a result of a DWI, such a civil revocation can be contested in Court if a notice requesting a hearing on the 30 day...

What are the Consequences of a DWI in North Carolina?

by Minick Law | Dec 17, 2019 | DUI DWI, Limited Driving Privilege

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Courtroom Etiquette

What To Wear To Court

by Minick Law | Apr 26, 2017 | Courtroom Etiquette

Knowing what to wear to court, how to behave in court, and how to talk to a judge are extremely important (yet often forgotten) elements in your court appearance. Making a great impression in the courtroom and putting your best foot forward to the judge and jury can...

How To Speak In Court: Take A Deep Breath

by Minick Law | Jun 1, 2017 | Initial Appearance in Court

Going to court for the first time can be nerve-wracking, but don’t let the stress get too much for you to handle. The way you comport yourself in court can do a lot for your case, and can show the judge that you are a mature, reasonable adult who is respectful of him...

Court Etiquette: Don’t Be Late!

by Minick Law | Jun 1, 2017 | Initial Appearance in Court

One of the surest ways to lose the respect of the judge and courtroom, and to show disrespect to the court proceedings is to be late to your court date. Court etiquette demands that you show up on time. Whether your court hearing is for a large crime or a minor...

What To Wear To Court

by Minick Law | Apr 26, 2017 | Courtroom Etiquette

What Should I Wear to Court?

by Minick Law | Jan 18, 2017 | Courtroom Etiquette

If you have not spent much time in a courtroom before your scheduled hearing, you may be wondering “What should I wear to court?” The answer, though not difficult, is important to get right, because to dress poorly can have unfortunate and unforeseen consequences...

What Color To Wear To Court

by Minick Law | Jan 18, 2017 | Courtroom Etiquette

While the color of the outfit you have decided to wear to your court hearing is probably that furthest thing from your mind as you prepare to appear in court, it is nevertheless highly important. Books have been written on the subtle cues color and appearance can have...

Can You Wear Jeans to Court?

by Minick Law | Jan 18, 2017 | Courtroom Etiquette

For those of us who are not lawyers or bailiffs or judges, going to court is not a normal part of our daily lives. Whether we are called into court as the defendant, a witness, or a member of the jury, it is important to know how you are expected to dress when you go...

11 Tips First Court Appearance

by Minick Law | Sep 22, 2016 | Courtroom Etiquette

11 Tips For Your First Court Appearance Your court date is set. Now what? The courtroom is an intimidating place, especially if it’s your first appearance. There are questions you’re probably asking, like “what should I wear” and “what do I say?”. The whole...

How To Talk To A Judge

by Minick Law | Aug 25, 2016 | Courtroom Etiquette

Going to court can be an intimidating experience, especially if you’ve never been to court before. You may worry about what to wear, where to sit, and how to talk to a judge in court. These worries can make you dread the entire process. Luckily, you don’t need to...

Courtroom Etiquette: What Should I Wear to Court & How Should I Behave?

by Minick Law | May 21, 2015 | Courtroom Etiquette, Miscellaneous

Two questions we frequently hear at Minick Law, P.C. are: what should I wear to court? and how should I behave in the courtroom? Not too long ago we published blog posts about clothing and behavioral etiquette in the courtroom, including style, decorum, and general...

How Should I Behave In Court?

by Minick Law | Jul 28, 2014 | Courtroom Etiquette

For many people, having to go to court for jury duty is a very unpleasant experience. However, for a criminal defendant, it is even worse due to the potential negative consequences of a possible conviction. Because courtrooms can be both intimidating and nerve racking...

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Limited Driving Privilege

When Can You Drive After a DWI?

by Minick Law | Dec 17, 2019 | DUI DWI, Limited Driving Privilege | 0 Comments

What are the Consequences of a DWI in North Carolina?

by Minick Law | Dec 17, 2019 | DUI DWI, Limited Driving Privilege

What Is An Ignition Interlock in NC?

by Lance Williams | Sep 4, 2018 | DUI DWI, Limited Driving Privilege

Image property of Smart Start North Carolina lawmakers have the responsibility to enact laws to keep our roads safe. Part of that is to eliminate the risk of drunk driving wherever possible. One of the tools that the legislature has given the NC DMV is the...

How to Get a Limited Driving Privilege in NC after a DWI in SC

by Gint Krulikas | Jun 19, 2018 | DUI DWI, Limited Driving Privilege

Being convicted of a DWI brings with it a litany of consequences. However, for most people, the primary concern is their licensing privileges and the ability to drive. This becomes even more complicated when you are convicted of a DWI in South Carolina but...

Attacking a Willful Refusal

by Minick Law | Jun 13, 2017 | (DWI) Practitioner's Guide, DUI DWI, Limited Driving Privilege

Attacking a willful refusal, specifically a license revocation for willful refusal, requires careful review of several legal issues. Under N.C.G.S. 20-16.2(d) there are effectively three issues to be decided by a DMV Hearing Officer at a license revocation hearing...

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Building A Legal Practice

Chapter 7: Cornerstone: A Culture of Help

by Minick Law | Jan 7, 2019 | How to Build a Legal Practice

In the service industry, a consumer is basing his buying/hiring decision primarily on how helpful you are. In law, where the product you are selling is information, the client expects that you know what you are supposed to know in order to achieve the desired legal...

Chapter 6: Think and Act Positive

by Minick Law | Oct 31, 2018 | How to Build a Legal Practice

Becoming a successful business owner begins with your belief that your business, your product and your people can be great. Not mediocre. GREAT! Great businesses are built on possibilities, on what could be. Positive thinking is creative and energizing....

Answering the Question: How Do We Do What We Do?

by Minick Law | Oct 26, 2018 | How to Build a Legal Practice

A company’s culture is the foundation for future innovation. An entrepreneur's job is to build the foundation. - Brian Chesky, Co-founder and CEO of Airbnb Every business has a modus operandi. This way of operating is the habitual way in which business is...

Chapter 4. Beginning With the End in Mind: What Does Your Business Look Like Without You in It

by James K Minick | Sep 13, 2018 | How to Build a Legal Practice

“Where do you see yourself in five years?” is a FAQ in a job interview. Even though it is frequently asked many interviewees don’t have a good answer to this question. Part of the reason for the difficultly of responding to this question is concern that...

Chapter 3: Communicating Your Mission To Others

by James K Minick | Aug 31, 2018 | How to Build a Legal Practice

"There is no more powerful engine driving an organization toward excellence and long-range success than an attractive, worthwhile, achievable vision for the future, widely shared." -Burt Nanus Once you have thought about the “why” of your business and...

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A Cup of Coffee with 10 of the Top DUI Attorneys in the United States

James Minick is the co-author of A Cup of Coffee with 10 of the Top DUI Attorneys in the United States. This is meant to be a guidebook for anyone facing a DWI charge and its consequences.

Get Your Copy

Silver Lining Therapy

15:26 20 Mar 19

James Minick and his staff are extremely professional, personable, and genuinely concerned with helping people navigate the legal system to arrive at the best outcome. They offer so much value to clients - the blogs and vlogs are incredible! Their website is like an encyclopedia of DWI information and as an assessment and treatment provider, we often reference the blog and pass that value along to the people we serve. Legal issues are always stressful and anxiety producing, but Minick and his team keep things straight forward and transparent so you can breathe easier. Absolutely recommend their legal services!read more

Kate Boylan

20:30 14 Mar 19

Minick Law has been so supportive and helpful! Mr. Minick was easily accessible and talked me through my whole court proceeding. He always communicated that he had my best interest at heart and made sure that I understood every step of the process. I was lucky I found this law firm. They made me feel safe and taken care of while bringing a terrible life event to a close. I am so grateful!read more

Adam Sullivan

04:10 22 Feb 19

Amazing lawyer!!! Mr.Minick went above and beyond d to help me prepare for the case, including gathering evidence and helping me through every little detail. Fantastic communication! Very prompt and professional and can not thank him and the staff he has at Minick Law enough for getting me through this troubling ordeal!read more

Greg Grindstaff

16:15 21 Feb 19

I spoke with Mr. James K. Minick with regards to helping me get my driver's license reinstated. He was very respectful, upfront and honest with me. He basically saved me $2K or possibly more by being honest. Most attorneys would have their hand out wanting money and giving false hope. I truly appreciate Mr. Minick. I would highly recommend this law firm for any service that they offer.read more

madison poarch

19:42 05 Feb 19

They did an amazing job helping me out. I had come to them last min. and they still managed to get my citation dismissed. They were quick and what they charged me was less than my actual citation fee.

Jim Sherar

16:50 05 Feb 19

Jake and his staff were very professional in assisting us in a legal matter. Many thanks for the great and timely service to our family.

Nathan Britt

18:06 11 Jan 19

Attorney Minck is a great lawyer with an amazing staff. Attorney Minick walked me step-by-step through the process of getting my case handled pomptly (before my scheduled court date even) as well as getting the record expunged. Any questions I had along the way were always quickly and effectively answered through his stellar staff who were all very knowledgeable and helpful. I highly recommend Minick Law to anyone in need of legal consultation.read more

Alex Watson

07:31 19 Dec 18

Mr. Minick strives to offer an exceptional client experience. He succeeds by offering a thorough understanding of the law, compassion, and a team that communicates and cares for the client.No need to look for an attorney any longer, Minick surpasses the others with knowledge and the skills to passionately seek the most favorable outcomes.read more

James Easter

00:49 12 Dec 18

Strongly Recommend Attorney Minick & Minick law! He was an incredible asset during a very stressful time (DUI). Minick was always available to answer questions and very organized so I was in the know every step of the way. I can't speak highly enough of his representation and encourage anyone facing a DUI or otherwise to give Minick Law a call, you won't regret it (even if you regret whatever may be bringing you to his office!).read more

Jackson McCoy

21:12 27 Nov 18

I had a wonderful experience with Mr.Minick and his team. They made the court process very smooth. He is a great lawyer hands down.

Sarah Warren

00:52 29 Oct 18

I have an interlock device installed in my car due to a DWI and made an appointment with Mr. Minick after receiving a DMV notice stating that I was losing my license due to a violation on the device. It was a pretty high alcohol violation and my odds weren't looking favorable. He was able to get me in very quickly and each appointment I had with him before my hearing was very productive and thorough. The days before my hearing I still had a lot of documentation to complete and he was available over the phone/email even in the early morning and evenings to make sure we were as prepared as possible. I felt important and that he was doing everything in his power to make sure I kept my license. The hearing officer initially seemed like he was going to decide to revoke my driving privileges, but I could see him slowly begin to change his mind as Mr. Minick presented his argument. It was obvious that he'd spent a lot of time working on it. We ended up winning. I was very proud to have him represent me and highly recommend him.read more

Josh Valentine

21:24 25 Oct 18

Mr. Minick is an excellent DWI attorney who analyzes every aspect of the law to help fight your case. He truly cares about his clients and is prompt in his communication. If you have been charged with DWI, hire Mr. Minick--he's the best around.read more

Chelsea Dale

20:49 12 Oct 18

Mr Minick was so wonderful to me! He was incredibly patient with me (especially financially) and I know I was probably quite ridiculous, but he just made sure everything went perfectly for me anyways! If you're in a bad sitch, definitely head to Mr Minick. He's experienced, friendly, and damn good. Thank you!!!read more

Jacob Hansbury

14:24 10 Oct 18

I used Minick Law for a traffic violation and it was hands down the best experience I’ve had. Very courteous and professional staff. The process was quick and easy and gave me a tremendous sense of relief. Thank you!

EDDIE BROWN

19:34 08 Oct 18

I receive a speeding ticket in Asheville, NC about a month ago. I found Minick Law on the internet and chose them based on someone answering the phone instead of voicemail. I'm so glad they answered. Stephanie answered the phone and gave me all the information I needed in detail, which made it all the more easier to choose this firm. The results were just what I was hoping for and feed back was very prompt. I highly recommend Minick Law and will choose them if ever needed again.read more

Keith Maclean

14:35 01 Oct 18

I was allowing my 15 year old nephew to drive in Waynesville, N.C.. He had not received his permit yet, through no fault of his, and I was allowing him some experience. A lady pulled from a driveway on Mainstreet, and clipped our car. No charges were filed in the accident (limited damages), but I had inadvertently failed to renew my collision insurance the previous month, and, I was allowing an underage, unlicensed driver to operate a vehicle, a serious charge in N.C.. The insurance was back in force the next day, but the unlicensed driver charge could have been a Class 1 Misdemeanor, again, a serious charge. James arranged for these charges to be dismissed.I founded and build an Assisted Living Company whose Portfolio Value exceeds $40M, with over 500 employees. Our Corporate Legal Representation includes attorneys who bill $500+ an hour. The representation James provided was on par with these, and his results exceeded many of them.Thank you, James and Stephenie..!!read more

Susan Hudspeth

18:03 10 Sep 18

Our family always uses Minick Law for traffic violations, they are reasonable, attentive and have always taken care of everything to our benfit! It's great to have a true professional on your side when you need it!!

RICHARD POORE

12:25 17 Aug 18

I contacted Minick Law to help me expunge a 20 plus year old warrant that I didn't even know about. Their legal assistant and attorney took my information about the case over the phone and correspondence thru email and were able to take care of everything for me at a very reasonable fee. I was and am very pleased with their work. If you need good people on your side, definitely give Minick a call.read more

Kayla Hefner

00:21 14 Aug 18

James Minick office helped me feel better about my case, it was so easy and simple. He took all the stress away I had about my case and court by being very to the point and easy to get ahold of. His staff was always friendly and very quick with responses to questions I might had. I would recommend Minick Law to friends or family any day!read more

Eric Ell

14:51 13 Aug 18

Mr. Minick was very kind and professional. He made me feel comfortable and confident every step of the way, and in court he clearly knew everyone there and had arranged the result before I even spoke to the judge. Definitely worth the money for peace of mind.read more

Sandra Maynor

14:04 29 Jun 18

I highly recommend James Mimic. Always received quick responses to all my inquiries. James went above and beyond to help me recieve the best possible outcome to my situation. I can honestly say he is the best attorney I have ever had.

Jake Wolf

13:28 26 Jun 18

I've been very satisfied with Mr. Minick's legal services and his office staff's professionalism and communication. Attorney Minick is a great lawyer who advocates for his clients rights, and fights for them in court. In a world of lawyers being untrustworthy, Minick Law is a serious breath of fresh air. I'd recommend them to any of my friends and family who need criminal defense representation.read more

Kelly Cronin

13:17 23 Jan 18

I’m so happy I chose minick law to help with my traffic ticket. I received the best possible outcome and all for very reasonable price. They represented me in court which was great because I live two hours away ! They made this process easy and answered all my questions. I would highly recommend them and would absolutely use them again!read more

Floyd Tune

15:25 11 Jan 18

The name on my case is actually Raymond Thompson, Floyd Tune Same Person! Let me start by saying James Minick is a total professional and a top shelf lawyer quite possibly the best in the south east. Nc's best for sure. His representation of me proved that month after month. My case lasted 3 yrs not once did James lose faith, James would always keep me up to date about what was going on with my case. And in the end all charges were dropped. DUI/DRUGS, Carrying a concealed weapon, Open container and failure to maintain lane control.I had total confidence in James from the Get Go. If you need a lawyer and have any doubt about who you might want to hire I recommend James Minick 100% five star. Thank you once again James and if I should need it harder for anything in the future he would definitely be the one.read more

Susannah Frawley

18:46 17 Nov 17

Minick Law provided outstanding service! They were professional and went above and beyond in their dedication to work for the best possible outcome. They were warm, caring, and kind. They exceeded my expectations in every way--I can't recommend them highly enough!read more

Mathew Spencer

15:03 31 Oct 17

Being my first DWI, unfamiliar with Buncombe County where my incident occurred, and residing 6 hours away, I had to start out at step one upon finding trustworthy and professional representation. After much research, Minick Law topped my list. The Minick Law team is courteous, respectful, knowledgeable, EXTREMELY timely with responses and carry themselves with the utmost professionalism. I could not have selected a better attorney than James Minick. In the courtroom, he has a presence that carries respect, honor and heart. Being an attorney may be his technical profession, but truly caring about the client he represents speaks volumes in my book.read more

Sean Aikey

22:01 10 Sep 17

James and his staff were extremely outstanding from start to finish. The staff was great for getting back to me with any questions I had in regarding my case. James has great experience and always figured out ways to help in my case dealing with the federal court system. James always had the time to speak to me about everything and was very positive and friendly. I was from Charlotte and I recommend James for any case, and I will definitely use him again in any circumstances. Thanks James for a great job!read more

Our office continues to be available by phone, email and video conferencing during the hardships of COVID-19. The North Carolina Courts have issued a mandatory continuance of all non-emergency cases until at least June 1. Please call us to discuss your case or charges. We are ready to help.

DWI / DUI Resources

NC DWI and DUI Resources

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DWI / DUI

Courtroom Etiquette

Limited Driving Privilege

Building A Legal Practice

A Cup of Coffee with 10 of the Top DUI Attorneys in the United States

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