Woodburn DUI Lawyer

Woodburn DUI Attorney

Being charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in Woodburn can leave you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and worried for the future. Because the consequences of a DUI are severe and can result in fines, jail, or prison time, and even negative impacts on your employment, it’s vital that you work with an experienced Woodburn DUI lawyer who can protect your rights.  ​

Why Clients Trust the Law Office of Amy L. Bingham

​At the Law Office of Amy L. Bingham, our lead attorney has been advocating for the rights of Oregon residents for over a decade. Ms. Bingham understands the implications that DUI charges can have on your life and has the knowledge and experience needed to craft a tailored defense strategy that combats your charges. Our team can assess your case, help you build a powerful defense, and represent you during hearings and in trial.

​An Overview of Oregon DUI Laws

​According to Oregon’s Department of Motor Vehicles, every year, around 25,000 people are arrested for a DUI. Oregon also uses the acronym DUII, meaning driving under the influence of intoxicants. Lawmakers added the phrase “intoxicants” to the charge so that impaired driving under any substance can be prosecuted. This means that alcohol, drugs, and some over-the-counter/prescription medications can all result in a DUII in Oregon.​

Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels in Oregon are limited to 0.08% for regular drivers, 0.04% for commercial drivers, and 0% for those under the age of 18. DUI convictions in Woodburn carry heavy and life-altering penalties, and can vary depending on the severity of your crime. The higher your BAC, the more severe your DUI may be. Common penalties for DUI convictions in Oregon can include:

• License suspension or revocation
• Jail time
• Prison time
• Community service
• Fines and court expenses
• Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle
• Probation or parole
• Job loss
• Mandatory treatment programs

Receiving a DUI conviction in Oregon can also negatively impact your housing, employment, and educational opportunities. Multiple DUI convictions can lead to you losing your driving rights for the long term, making traveling and getting daily tasks done more difficult. If you’re facing a DUI charge in Woodburn, do not wait to hire a DUI lawyer with experience in cases similar to yours.

​What Should I Do If I’m Stopped for a DUI in Woodburn?

​Being stopped by law enforcement can be overwhelming, and it is difficult to know what to do when you’re panicking. When you’re pulled over in any scenario, it is vital that you remain calm and level-headed while interacting with law enforcement. Your behavior can negatively impact an impaired driving charge, and acting outrageously, yelling, or fighting police can only harm your case. By keeping your composure, you can prevent the situation from escalating.

​If an officer suspects you are driving while impaired in Woodburn, they may perform a breathalyzer or field sobriety tests. It’s important to understand that in Oregon, you have the right to deny a chemical or blood test, but if you do, your license will automatically be suspended. If you choose to refuse field sobriety tests like walking in a straight line or standing on one leg, you may still be arrested, but it will not carry the same penalties as refusing a chemical test.

​If the law enforcement officer asks you for your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance, it is important to provide them with these documents. If the officer asks if you have been drinking or using drugs, you do not need to answer. In Oregon, you have the right to refuse questions that may be incriminating and lead to your conviction. If you are arrested, you should immediately ask for a lawyer and stop talking until they can get there.

​Common Defenses Against DUI Charges in Oregon

​If you are charged with an alleged DUI in Oregon, there are several defenses that can be employed to combat your charges. At the Law Office of Amy L. Bingham, we can review your case to determine which defense strategy is right for your situation, tailoring it to meet the unique needs of your case.​

Some of the most common defense strategies used include:

• ​Challenging the Traffic Stop. For a traffic stop to be legal, the law enforcement officer must have had reasonable suspicion to pull you over. If there were no reasons for them to perform the traffic stop, then the evidence they collected may be inadmissible in court.
• Questioning the Validity of Field Sobriety Tests. In Oregon, you are not legally obligated to take the field sobriety tests, but if you choose to do so and fail them, we can review the conditions and challenge their administration. These tests must be performed in accordance with NHTSA standards, and factors such as weather, clothing, and health conditions can lead to inaccurate results.
• Questioning the Accuracy of Breathalyzers. Breathalyzers require regular maintenance and calibration in order to give accurate results. If the breathalyzer has not been maintained or is used improperly, it can easily create inaccurate results.
• Violation of Your Rights. If the officer failed to advise you of your rights under Oregon’s implied consent law or failed to read your Miranda rights, you may be able to have your charges dismissed.

First-time offenders may also qualify for diversion programs, which allow for their charges to be dismissed once they complete a substance abuse program. A skilled lawyer can review your case and determine what legal options are available in your scenario. From there, you can work together to identify the smartest path forward and protect your future.

Hire a DUI Lawyer in Woodburn: Contact the Law Office of Amy L. Bingham Today

​Facing DUI charges in Woodburn can be daunting, and navigating the criminal justice system on your own is likely the last thing you want to do. Luckily, the team at the Law Office of Amy L. Bingham works tirelessly to defend the rights of Oregon residents facing complicated criminal charges. Our founding attorney has successfully managed countless felony and misdemeanor cases in Woodburn and can advocate for your rights.

​Contact the Law Office of Amy L. Bingham today to schedule a consultation and see how we can make a difference.