Wilmington DUI LAWYERS

Coastal defense from our Wilmington DUI lawyers

We give good people the defense plan they need to fight the legal consequences of their charge, and keep their life moving forward.

Schedule A Free Consultation

The testimonials and endorsements listed do not reflect all of the feedback the firm has received. Each case is unique and must be evaluated on its individual merits. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

How We Help

Reduce the Legal Consequences

Criminal charges can result in the loss of your job, license, reputation, and even jail. Know the legal consequences and then work hard to reduce, or erase, them. A skilled attorney can be pivotal in this process, particularly in DWI cases.

Here’s how a Wilmington DWI attorney can help reduce your penalties:

  • Thorough Case Analysis: They delve into the specifics of your case, looking for any mitigating circumstances that might lessen the severity of your penalties.

  • Evidence Examination: Challenging the evidence against you can weaken the prosecution’s case, potentially leading to a more favorable outcome.

  • Negotiation Skills: By negotiating plea deals, your attorney can often secure reduced fines or lesser charges.

  • Alternative Sentencing: Advocating for options like community service or rehabilitation programs may minimize jail time and other harsh consequences.

  • Local Expertise: Their knowledge of local laws and court procedures can significantly influence the outcome, providing you with a strategic advantage.

With the right legal support, you can navigate these serious charges more effectively, working towards an outcome that protects your future.

Don’t Face the Law Alone

Being charged with a DWI, criminal, or traffic offense and facing the law is intimidating and isolating. Work with a defense team that fights and cares for you.

Get Clarity with the Unknown

Getting charged with a criminal offense and trying to navigate the legal process is often disorienting and overwhelming. Get the answers you want and the plan you need to get your life back on track.

DUI Defense

DUI defense is what we do.

Our Wilmington DUI lawyers will give you the legal support you want and the expertise you need for your DUI case.

At Minick Law, P.C. of Wilmington, our DUI attorneys will help you understand the legal process as we plan and prepare for your case. Our DUI Defense team will explain the legal process in clear terms, and guide you through your case, every step of the way.

Our Wilmington DUI lawyers will be upfront with you concerning the fines and sentence you may be facing. We will carefully listen carefully to you about the situation and the impact the DUI charge is having on your life.

DUI Lawyers

DUI Lawyers Wilmington, NC

Our Wilmington DUI lawyers understand that legal issues are stressful and our legal team will take the time to sit down and listen to the details of your case, answer questions, and create an effective plan of action in order to produce the best possible outcome on your case. Minick Law, P.C. provides you with aggressive, yet compassionate, DUI representation. Our office is conveniently located in downtown Wilmington!

Attorney Gint Krulikas graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Charlotte School of Law in North Carolina and concentrates in the practice of DWI and Criminal Defense law. He also graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in Business Management from Appalachian State University.

Our Wilmington DUI lawyers have completed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s course regarding DUI/DWI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing, the same twenty-four-hour training done by police officers.

Our Approach

DUI defense that fights and cares for you.

Getting a DWI (driving while impaired) or a DUI (driving under the influence) can result in unfortunate results such as driving suspensions, legal fees and fines, and even time in prison. Furthermore, your license could get suspended and your auto insurance rates could skyrocket.

Our Wilmington DUI lawyers handle all types of cases including Habitual DWI, Felony Driving While Impaired, Federal Driving Under Influence (DUI charged on Federal lands or parkway), and Drug Related Impaired Driving cases (including marijuana DWI charges).

We want you to be as informed as we can regarding every aspect of your case. We continually work to assemble the evidence, police reports, witness statements, and more to get all the information needed in your DWI defense.

Contact our Wilmington Office

Minick Law, P.C. of Wilmington

Address: 321 N Front St #210, Wilmington, NC

Phone:(910) 300-9995Fax: (828) 212-4300

Cities We Serve: Bolivia, Burgaw, Elizabethtown, Wilmington, and Whiteville.

Counties We Serve: Bladen, Brunswick, Columbus, New Hanover, and Pender.

Directions

From the North: 

Head southwest towards US-17 S. Continue on US-17 S. Drive to N Front St in Wilmington. Continue onto I-140 W/US-17 S (signs for Interstate 140 W/Shallotte/Myrtle Beach).

Take exit 14 to merge onto US-17 S/US-421 S. Turn left onto US-74 E/Isabel Holmes Bridge. Continue to follow Isabel Holmes Bridge. Merge onto N 3rd St. Turn right onto N Front St. Arrive at your destination at 321 N Front St #210, Wilmington, NC 28401.

Our Wilmington DUI Lawyers look forward to discussing your DUI defense!

 

From the South:

Get on US-17 N/Ocean Hwy W in Shallotte from NC-130 E/Whiteville Rd NW. Continue on US-17 N/Ocean Hwy W to Wilmington. Follow Walnut St to N Front St. Arrive at your destination at 321 N Front St #210, Wilmington, NC 28401.

Our Wilmington DWI Lawyers look forward to discussing your DWI defense!

 

From the West:

Take I-40 E towards Wilmington. Take Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy to N Front St in Wilmington.

Continue onto N College Rd. Turn right onto US-74 W/Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy (signs for Wilmington/Downtown). Continue to follow Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy. Continue onto N 3rd St

Turn right onto N Front St. Arrive at your destination at 321 N. Front St. #210 Wilmington, NC 28401.

Our Wilmington DWI Lawyers look forward to discussing your DWI defense!

 

FAQs for Wilmington DUI Lawyers

How Are You Different From Other Wilmington DUI Lawyers?

At Minick Law, we work hard to ensure that our trials have the best possible chance of winning. Both our Wilmington firm and our individual attorneys are extremely focused on case preparation. Whether your case involves facing multiple police officers, taking on the state of North Carolina, we have the time and subpoena power to bring people into court and call on expert witnesses.

We also place a great emphasis on communication. Our Wilmington attorney, Gint Krulikas, will answer any question and walk you through your entire case, while keeping in constant contact. Additionally, he concentrates on DWI cases; utilizing continuous alcohol monitoring and inpatient treatment for serious DWIs, as well as connections to local resources.

Will I Go to Jail if I am Convicted of a DWI in North Carolina?

While jail time is a possibility for any person convicted of a DWI, the realistic likelihood of jail time depends on a whole number of different factors. The vast majority of people charged with their first DWI are not sentenced to do any active jail time.

Jail time is more likely for a person with prior DWI’s, a child in the car, an accident which causes injury to another person, or driving on a license which is suspended for a DWI. In North Carolina, understanding the key aggravating factors in DWI cases is crucial, as they significantly influence the level of penalties one might face.

Among these factors are:

  • Speeding: Driving well over the legal speed limit can exacerbate the severity of a DWI charge.
  • Prior criminal or driving record: A history of offenses could lead to more stringent consequences.
  • BAC of 0.15% or higher: Blood alcohol content at this level is considered extremely dangerous, leading to harsher penalties.
  • Child in the vehicle (under 18 years old): The presence of a minor at the time of the offense is a significant aggravating factor.
  • Reckless driving: Exhibiting reckless behavior while driving under the influence adds to the severity of the charge.

These factors can escalate a DWI case to a Level 1 aggravated charge, which carries more severe penalties. Being aware of these can help individuals understand the potential consequences of their actions on the road.

Specific Consequences of a First-Time DUI in Wilmington, NC

However, if you’re facing a first-time DUI charge in Wilmington, here are the concrete consequences you might encounter:

  • Jail Time: While not common for first-time offenders, you could face up to 2 years in jail if grossly aggravating factors are involved.
  • License Revocation: Your license could be revoked or suspended for up to 1 year, impacting your daily life and mobility.
  • Financial Penalties: Expect court costs and fines, which can escalate if there are aggravating factors in your case.
  • Community Service: You may be required to complete community service as part of your sentence.

These potential penalties underscore the importance of understanding the specific legal landscape of Wilmington, NC, when dealing with a DUI charge.

Will I be Allowed to Drive after Getting a DWI?

There are many driving consequences that can arise from a DWI. The length of suspensions related to DWI and the requirements for license reinstatement vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including: prior DWI charges, the blood/breath alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of the DWI charge, and whether the driver’s license was suspended at the time of the charge. For a first offense DWI case in North Carolina, a person’s license will be suspended for one year. Most people convicted of their first offense will be able to get a limited driving privilege that will allow them to drive for work, educational, treatment, and religious purposes.

How Much Money Will Getting a DWI Cost Me?

The financial consequences of a DWI are significant and can include: attorney’s fees, court costs and fines, increases in auto insurance premiums, the cost of obtaining an alcohol assessment and completing any recommended treatment, continuous alcohol monitoring, inpatient treatment, and impact on employment.

Should I have been read my Miranda Rights during my DWI Arrest?

In North Carolina, officers frequently do not read Miranda rights at the time of a DWI arrest and often a suspect is never advised of Miranda rights during the entire encounter with police. In the context of a DWI arrest, the lack of Miranda warnings is not likely to result in a dismissal of charges. Most of the time statements made by a DWI suspect after arrest are not particularly important in the State’s prosecution. The suspect’s statements and field sobriety tests prior to arrest combined with a blood or breath alcohol result may be enough for the State to proceed to trial on a DWI charge.

What Steps Should You Take Right After a DWI Charge in Wilmington?

What Steps Should You Take Right After a DWI Charge in Wilmington?

1. Seek Legal Representation Quickly:
Your first action should be to consult with an experienced DWI attorney. A skilled lawyer will help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure your rights are safeguarded.

2. Understand the Charges Against You:
It’s crucial to fully comprehend what you’re being accused of. A knowledgeable attorney can break down the charges so you know exactly what you’re facing.

3. Get Your Legal Strategy in Place:
With professional guidance, evaluate the specifics of your case. Identify any factors, such as previous offenses or injury occurrences, that could impact your situation. Your lawyer will craft a defense strategy that matches the unique details of your case.

4. Gather Necessary Documentation:
Compile any relevant documentation for your attorney, such as police reports or evidence that could be pertinent to your defense.

5. Be Proactive with Court Deadlines:
Stay informed about all court dates and deadlines to avoid any additional legal complications.

Taking these steps promptly can significantly influence the outcome of your case.

How Can a Certified DWI Defense Attorney Help with Your Case?

How Can a Certified DWI Defense Attorney Help with Your Case?

Facing a DWI charge can be daunting, but a certified DWI defense attorney can be instrumental in navigating the complexities of the legal system. Here’s how they can help:

Case Evaluation and Strategy Development
A seasoned attorney will thoroughly examine the details of your case, identifying any weaknesses or mitigating factors. They tailor a robust defense strategy, aiming to highlight any potential flaws in the prosecution’s case.

Challenging the Evidence
Your attorney will scrutinize the evidence against you, from breathalyzer results to field sobriety test procedures. If any aspect fails to meet legal standards, your attorney can challenge its validity, which could lead to a reduction or dismissal of charges.

Negotiating Plea Bargains
Skilled in negotiation, a DWI defense lawyer can work with the prosecution to reach a plea deal. This can often result in lesser charges or reduced penalties, minimizing the impact on your life.

Advocating for Alternative Sentencing
Where possible, your attorney can advocate for alternatives to jail time, such as community service or alcohol treatment programs. This can mitigate the long-term consequences of a DWI conviction.

Expertise in Local Laws and Procedures
Local knowledge matters. An attorney familiar with the specific laws and court procedures of your area can leverage this expertise to influence the case outcome favorably.

By harnessing their expertise, a certified DWI defense attorney provides a strategic advantage in dealing with the legal challenges of a DWI case.

How Can a DWI Attorney Assist Me After a Wilmington Traffic Stop?

How a DWI Attorney Can Assist You After a Wilmington Traffic Stop

Getting pulled over for a DWI can be a stressful experience, but a skilled DWI attorney can be your best ally in navigating this challenging situation. Here’s how they can help:

1. Protecting Your Rights:
An experienced attorney ensures that your rights are safeguarded from the moment you’re stopped. They’ll advise you on how to interact with law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of not answering incriminating questions.

2. Providing Legal Guidance:
DWI laws can be complex, and understanding your legal options can be daunting. A knowledgeable attorney will demystify these laws and guide you through each step, ensuring you understand your choices and the potential consequences.

3. Developing a Defense Strategy:
Every DWI case is unique. Your attorney will analyze the details surrounding your stop and arrest to build a robust defense strategy. They’ll scrutinize the evidence, question the validity of field sobriety tests, and seek any procedural errors that could work in your favor.

4. Navigating Court Proceedings:
If your case proceeds to court, having an attorney with trial experience is invaluable. They will articulate and advocate for the best possible outcome on your behalf, whether it’s a reduced sentence, alternative penalties, or even a dismissal.

5. Managing the Aftermath:
Beyond the courtroom, a DWI conviction can have lasting effects on your life. A competent attorney will help you explore options like expungement to minimize the impact on your record.

By hiring a DWI attorney in Wilmington, you equip yourself with a professional who is dedicated to achieving the most favorable results for your case, both legally and personally.

What are Common Challenges Wilmington Residents Face When Dealing with DWI Charges?

Challenges Wilmington Residents Encounter with DWI Charges

When confronted with DWI charges, Wilmington residents often face a series of daunting challenges. Here’s a closer look at these common obstacles:

Employment Risks: Losing a job is a real concern, especially if the charge results in a revoked license. Many residents rely on their vehicles for commuting, making this a significant issue that can trigger job insecurity and financial strain.

Financial Strain from Insurance: After a DWI charge, insurance premiums typically skyrocket. This financial burden can add to the stress, impacting households where budgeting was already tight.

Navigating Legal Complexities: The legal system is often overwhelming for those without extensive knowledge, creating additional anxiety. Understanding the intricacies of local court procedures can be a steep learning curve, yet it is crucial for managing the case effectively.

Whether facing a first-time offense or dealing with repeat charges, Wilmington residents must consider all available options to mitigate the consequences of a DWI charge. This often involves seeking guidance from those familiar with local legal nuances to explore paths that minimize the impact on their lives.

What is it Important to Understand Local Insights on DWI Charges in Wilmington, NC?

The Importance of Understanding Wilmington‘s DWI Landscape

Understanding local insights on DWI charges in Wilmington, NC, is crucial due to the significant implications it has for residents facing such charges. Wilmington, located in New Hanover County, has its own set of legal nuances and enforcement practices that can greatly impact the outcome of a DWI case.

Stringent Enforcement

Local authorities are known for their stringent enforcement of DWI laws. The police department actively patrols and monitors roadways to deter impaired driving, making it vital for residents to be aware of this proactive stance.

Navigating the Court System

Wilmington‘s court system is recognized for its rigorous approach to DWI cases. Judges and prosecutors strictly adhere to state laws, often resulting in severe penalties for convictions. Understanding how the local legal system operates can help those charged with DWI prepare adequately and develop an effective defense strategy.

Consequences of Conviction

The repercussions of a DWI conviction in Wilmington can be severe, including heavy fines, license suspension, and even jail time. These potential consequences underscore the importance of being well-informed about local practices and laws.

Strategic Defense

Equipped with local insights, individuals can work with their legal team to craft a defense that considers Wilmington’s specific legal landscape. This knowledge can significantly increase the chances of a favorable outcome.

It’s clear that understanding Wilmington’s particular approach to DWI laws is not just a precaution—it’s a necessity.

Get the defense you need from a law firm that cares.

Gint Krulikas

Attorney

Gint Krulikas graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Charlotte School of Law in Charlotte, NC.

avvo

Learn More
At law school, he was a Presidential Honor’s Scholar, a recipient of a full merit scholarship, Associate Editor of the Property Law Journal, and a member of the Order of the Crown. Gint also graduated Magna Cum Laude from Appalachian State University with a degree in Business Management. 

Gint has successfully completed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s course on DWI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing, the same 24 hour course that police officers throughout the nation undergo to properly investigate DWI’s.  

Wilmington DWI News & Resources

  • DUI DWI
  • Courtroom Etiquette

DWI Costs in North Carolina

If you have been charged with a DWI, there are probably a million questions and worries that are running through your mind. However, probably the most important question you have is, “how much is this going to cost me?” While...

Click to access the login or register cheese