Blue lights flash in your rearview mirror. Next, an officer hands you a breath test on the side of Airline Highway. Then you spend a night in East Baton Rouge Parish Prison. For most people, a DWI arrest marks their first contact with the criminal justice system. As a result, the questions start immediately: Will I lose my license? Will I lose my job? Will this follow me forever?
However, the decisions you make in the first few days after a DWI or any criminal arrest can shape the outcome of your case. That’s why choosing the right DWI lawyer in Baton Rouge matters, and why you should act quickly.
Common Questions After a DWI or Criminal Arrest
Is a first DWI a felony in Louisiana?
No. Louisiana treats a first and second DWI as misdemeanors. However, a third offense becomes a felony. Even so, a first offense can bring up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, up to two years of probation, and required substance abuse and driver improvement classes. For more detail, read about first-offense DWI penalties in Louisiana.
Will I lose my driver’s license?
Possibly, and the clock starts at your arrest. The Office of Motor Vehicles handles your license separately from the criminal case. In addition, you have only 30 days from the arrest to request an administrative hearing. If you miss that deadline, the suspension can take effect automatically. Fortunately, an attorney can request the hearing for you and, if needed, help you pursue a hardship license. For more, see our suspended license page.
Should I explain my side to the police?
No. You have the right to remain silent, so use it. After all, prosecutors can use even innocent explanations against you later. Instead, politely ask for a lawyer and stop talking.
Can my lawyer challenge breath tests and field sobriety tests?
Yes. For example, police must maintain and operate breath machines correctly. Similarly, nerves, footwear, weather, injuries, and medical conditions can all throw off field sobriety tests. In addition, a defense attorney will examine whether the officer had a lawful reason to stop you in the first place.
Will a DWI stay on my record forever?
Not necessarily. In fact, Louisiana law lets many people expunge a conviction once they meet certain conditions. Our team also handles criminal record expungement.
What if I’m facing a different criminal charge?
The same rules apply. First, stay silent. Second, don’t discuss the case on social media. Finally, call a lawyer. Beyond DWI, the firm defends drug charges, violent crimes, theft, federal crimes, juvenile and college student cases, and more.
When should I hire a lawyer?
Right away. Early representation protects your license deadline and preserves evidence like dash-cam and body-cam video. Plus, it gives your attorney time to build a defense before your first court date.
Why South Louisiana Turns to the Law Offices of Ossie Brown
For more than 40 years, the Law Offices of Ossie Brown has defended people across Baton Rouge and South Louisiana. Here’s what sets the team apart.
A Legacy in Louisiana Courtrooms
The firm’s founder, Ossie Brown, earned national recognition as a criminal defense lawyer. He also served as a Baton Rouge City Court judge and as East Baton Rouge Parish District Attorney from 1972 to 1984. Notably, in the 1970 My Lai court-martial, his client was the only defendant to win acquittal on every charge. Because of that history, the firm understands how prosecutors build cases, and how to take them apart.
Dana Brown Leads the Team
Dana Brown has served as managing attorney since 2000. A Baton Rouge native, he earned his law degree from Southern University Law Center. Today, he holds admission to practice in all three federal district courts in Louisiana, the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the U.S. Supreme Court. In other words, whether your case lands in a parish courtroom or federal court, he can stand beside you.
A Full Defense Team
Dana works alongside a team of experienced attorneys. As a result, your case gets real attention, and someone actually calls you back.
Local Knowledge
Because the firm’s office sits on St. Ferdinand Street in downtown Baton Rouge, the team knows the local courts, judges, and prosecutors that will handle your case.
Clients Who Feel Heard
Reviewers consistently describe returned phone calls, clear explanations, and personal attention instead of case-number treatment. As one client put it, Dana “makes you feel at ease.”
Talk to a Baton Rouge DWI Lawyer Today
A DWI or criminal charge doesn’t have to define your future. However, waiting can cost you options. That’s why the firm offers a free, confidential consultation.
Schedule your free consultation or call 225-343-1111.
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This article offers general information only, not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Because every case differs, past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.