Raleigh DWI Lawyer
Attorney Chris Detwiler provides aggressive defense for DWI in Wake County, fighting for the best possible outcome. If you are facing a DWI charge in Raleigh or Wake County, call today to schedule your FREE consultation.
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Attorney Christopher Detwiler
A Raleigh DWI Lawyer with a Reputation for Effective DWI Defense
When you’re charged with a DWI in North Carolina, the consequences can feel overwhelming—court dates, fines, license implications, employment concerns, and fear about the unknown. Attorney Christopher R. Detwiler provides strategic legal representation focused on protecting your rights, guiding you through the court process, and working to mitigate the penalties you may be facing.
How Attorney Detwiler Supports You
Chris works to help you understand your legal options and fights for the best possible outcome based on the facts of your case.
His approach includes:
- Reviewing the traffic stop and arrest procedures
- Evaluating field sobriety and chemical testing
- Challenging evidence when appropriate
- Identifying opportunities for reduced penalties
- Representing you in court
- Guiding you through each step of the legal process
Schedule a Free Consultation
Contact Attorney Chris Detwiler, an Experienced Raleigh DWI Lawyer
Types of DWI Charges Attorney Detwiler Defends
Attorney Detwiler works hard to minimize your chance of incurring serious criminal penalties and other repercussions associated with a DWI charge. Since the consequences of a DWI conviction in Wake County can be severe, Chris aims to provide clarity, confidence, and the support needed to navigate the charges against you.
North Carolina recognizes several forms of impaired driving offenses under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-138.1, including violations based on blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels of 0.08% or higher.
First-Time DWI
- First-time DWI applies when a person is charged with impaired driving for the first time
- Penalties may include fines, license suspension, and substance abuse assessments
- Impact can vary depending on factors such as BAC level and prior driving history
Repeat DWI / Subsequent Offenses
- Involves a second or later impaired driving charge
- North Carolina imposes progressively harsher penalties for repeat offenses
- May include longer license revocations, ignition interlock, and the possibility of higher sentencing levels
DWI Involving an Accident
- DWI with accident occurs when a DWI charge is connected to a motor vehicle collision
- Even without injuries, an accident can escalate the seriousness of the case
- May influence sentencing factors and how the State approaches prosecution
DWI with Injury
- Applies when another person is injured during an incident involving alleged impaired driving
- Can increase potential penalties and elevate the severity of the case
- Often involves more detailed investigation and evidence review
Underage DWI — Zero Tolerance
- Applies to drivers under 21 who operate a vehicle after consuming any amount of alcohol
- Even a small alcohol concentration can result in charges
- Includes special penalties related to North Carolina’s zero-tolerance laws (N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-138.3)
Commercial Driver DWI (CDL)
- Applies to CDL holders operating commercial or personal vehicles
- CDL standards are stricter, including a lower BAC threshold of 0.04%
- A conviction can lead to CDL disqualification, significantly affecting employment
High BAC DWI (.15 or higher)
- Involves a blood alcohol concentration at or above 0.15%
- May require ignition interlock and carry additional penalties
- Often considered an aggravating factor during sentencing
Refusal to Submit to Chemical Testing
- Occurs when a driver declines breath or blood testing (N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-16.2) after being charged with implied-consent offenses
- Triggers an immediate civil license revocation
- Can impact the way the State prosecutes the underlying DWI
Schedule a Free Consultation
Contact Attorney Chris Detwiler, an Experienced Raleigh DWI Lawyer
Benefits of Working with Attorney Detwiler for Strong DWI Defense
Being charged with a DWI is a frightening experience, and we are here to make it easier for you. Chris will explain all of your options and help you make informed decisions about your case. We strongly believe that everyone deserves a fair and impartial trial. Chris is committed to providing quality legal representation and will be with you every step of the way, from the moment you call until your case is resolved.
A Reputation Built on Integrity and Client Trust
With a proven track record of successful outcomes and a dedication to protecting clients’ rights, Chris is regarded as a trustworthy and reliable attorney. He communicates clearly, treats every case with respect, and approaches each client’s situation with the seriousness it deserves—qualities that help build trust during a difficult and uncertain time.
Extensive Experience in DWI and Criminal Defense
Extensive experience and a successful history defending clients makes Chris a respected attorney in the Raleigh area. His background in criminal defense, DWI charges, and traffic offenses allows him to recognize the nuances of each case and prepare effective strategies tailored to the specific facts.
Focused, Prepared, and Ready to Advocate
Chris concentrates his practice on criminal defense, DWI, and traffic violations, giving him deep familiarity with the laws, procedures, and courtroom dynamics involved. His commitment to preparation—reviewing evidence, identifying weaknesses in the State’s case, and preparing for all possible outcomes—ensures he is ready to advocate at every stage.
Strategic, Detail-Oriented Defense Preparation
Every DWI case requires careful analysis of the stop, the investigation, and the evidence collected. Chris’s approach includes evaluating constitutional issues, reviewing testing procedures, and identifying inconsistencies that may affect the State’s burden of proof. His diligence helps clients feel confident that their defense is built on a thorough and thoughtful foundation.
Strong Courtroom Advocacy When Your Case Requires It
If trial becomes necessary, Chris is prepared to represent you in court with a clear, organized, and well-supported defense strategy. He understands how to present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and communicate effectively with judges. While every case is different, clients value his steady presence and thoughtful approach in the courtroom.
Our Three-Step Plan for Successfully Defending Your DWI Case
At the Law Office of Christopher R. Detwiler, we understand that being charged with a DWI can be a daunting experience. That's why we have developed a three-step plan to successfully defend your DWI case.
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Contact Attorney Chris Detwiler, an Experienced Raleigh DWI Lawyer
Common DWI Defense Strategies
To obtain a DWI conviction, the officer, deputy, or trooper on the scene must conduct a thorough investigation, and the District Attorney’s Office must present the relevant evidence in a clear and convincing manner that constitutes proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
Given the complex nature of DWI charges, there are numerous potential defenses. Our DWI defense attorney knows each client’s situation is different and customizes legal strategies to meet the unique needs of each individual case. Chris will provide an in-depth analysis of the charges against you, delivering a comprehensive legal strategy and working diligently to ensure that the best possible outcome is achieved.
5 Common Strategies that Can be Applied to Evaluate the State’s Evidence and Identify Weaknesses in the Prosecution’s Case:
Challenging Reasonable and Articulable Suspicion
Law enforcement cannot stop or seize a vehicle without reasonable and articulable suspicion that a traffic violation or criminal offense occurred. Stops based solely on vague observations—such as minor weaving within a lane—may violate constitutional protections. If a judge determines the stop was unlawful, the case may be dismissed.
Contesting Probable Cause to Arrest
Law enforcement cannot make a DWI arrest without probable cause supported by clear observations of impairment. While officers rely on driving behavior, personal contact, and field sobriety testing, these factors must collectively provide a lawful basis for arrest. When the evidence is weak, inconsistent, or improperly gathered, the court may find that probable cause did not exist.
Disputing Evidence of Impairment
The State must prove impairment beyond a reasonable doubt. Although high breath or blood alcohol concentrations can strengthen the prosecution’s case, there are many situations where impairment is uncertain. Cases involving no chemical test, borderline BAC results of .08 or .09, or inconsistencies between test results and observed behavior often create room for reasonable doubt about whether a driver was actually impaired.
Challenging Evidence of Driving
Whether the defendant was driving is a required element that must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Many cases present no issue because the officer stops the vehicle while it is in motion. However, challenges can arise when officers arrive after a vehicle has already come to a stop, especially in accident cases. If multiple people are present and no one is behind the wheel, the State must establish who was driving.
An admission alone is not typically enough; corroborating evidence may include:
- Who possessed the keys
- Vehicle registration information
- Statements from bystanders
When driving cannot be clearly established, this may create a strong defense.
Filing a Knoll Motion
Under the North Carolina Supreme Court’s decision in State v. Knoll, DWI suspects have a constitutional right to access witnesses during the critical period when evidence of impairment is most relevant. Impairment is time-sensitive, and defendants cannot simply be held until sober without allowing them to gather evidence.
A Knoll motion may be pursued when:
- A magistrate sets an unreasonably high bond, preventing timely release
- A magistrate wrongfully determines the defendant is a danger and refuses release
- A witness arrives to observe the defendant, but jail staff denies access
A successful Knoll motion may result in suppression of evidence or dismissal of the case.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Trusted Raleigh DWI Lawyer
At the Law Office of Christopher R. Detwiler, we understand that facing a DWI charge can be intimidating, with a lot of uncertainty of what’s to come. Chris is passionate about ensuring that the rights of the accused are upheld throughout the legal process and will work tirelessly to provide you with the best possible defense.
Contact us today to schedule a FREE consultation by calling (919) 526-7545 or filling out our contact form to secure a trusted path in navigating your DWI charges and reducing the impact they may have on your future.
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