DUI Attorneys in Iowa

SUMMARY: Iowa DUI Attorneys

If you're charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI)—also referred to as a DWI—in Iowa, you may need to hire a DUI attorney to assist you. Iowa DWI lawyers can represent you in court, and inform you about DUI penalties and court procedures.

NOTE: The content of this website is intended solely for informational purposes. It is not a source of legal advice and should not be used as such.

Keep reading for useful information about DUI attorneys in Iowa.

Hiring a DUI Attorney in Iowa

You may find a lot of DUI lawyers in Iowa who can assist you with alcohol-related traffic violations. Use the following tips to help you choose your DUI attorney:

  • Ask for a referral. Your friends or family may have hired a DWI attorney or know of a lawyer who specializes in DUI cases.
  • Find a lawyer with DUI experience. Be sure to select someone with expertise in DUI/DWI cases.
  • Search your local area. You'll be better off working with a lawyer who has experience with local courts and knowledge of Iowa traffic laws.
  • Schedule a few meetings. Since consultations are normally free, you should take the time to meet with multiple DUI attorneys before you hire someone.
  • Understand your attorney's fees. Before you commit to a DUI attorney, be sure to ask about fees and find out when your payment is due.

Charges Handled by DUI Attorneys

You will face a DUI charge in Iowa if:

  • You were driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or more.
    • You can be charged for a DUI with a lower BAC level if you are a commercial driver or have a provisional driver's license.
  • You refused a BAC test.

When choosing a DUI lawyer, you should check whether they've worked on other DUI cases similar to yours.

How a DUI Attorney Can Help

Since DUI offenses result in criminal charges in Iowa, you may need a DUI attorney to ensure your case goes smoothly and to minimize your penalties and charges. Here are some examples of what a DUI attorney can do for you:

  • Represent you in court.
  • Help you decide on your plea and/or testimony (if applicable).
  • Complete and submit all required paperwork to your court.
  • Walk you through the Iowa court process and potential outcomes.

NOTE: While you can inquire about the strength of your case and chances of dismissal, a DUI attorney cannot guarantee any outcome.

Penalties for a DUI in IA

If you plead or are found “guilty" of your DUI charge, you'll face several penalties depending on your specific case. In Iowa, most DUI convictions result in:

  • A suspension of your IA driver's license by the Department of Transportation. This is in addition to any criminal charges. Revocation periods vary. For failing a BAC test your driver's license will be revoked for:
    • 180 days for your 1st conviction.
    • 1 year for your 2nd conviction within 12 years.
    • 6 years for your 3rd conviction within 12 years.
  • Hefty fines.
  • Jail time.
  • Mandatory completion of a substance-abuse evaluation or treatment program.
  • Having an ignition interlock device installed in your car.

A DUI attorney can help you prepare your case and make the entire process much easier.

NOTE: If your IA driver's license is revoked and you're caught driving with it, you'll face new misdemeanor charges and a $1,000 fine.

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