Dedicated DUI Lawyers in Peterborough, NH, Who Fight for Your Rights
When facing a DUI charge, it can feel overwhelming, especially with the complex DUI laws in New Hampshire. Convictions can bring severe penalties, including fines, jail time, and license suspensions, impacting your life in countless ways. DUI laws in New Hampshire are strict and designed to maintain public safety by penalizing impaired driving.
For those facing these challenges, DUI lawyers in Peterborough, NH, can help defend your rights and guide you through the legal process. At Cohen & Winters, PLLC, we understand the gravity of these cases and are here to support you.
What You Need to Know about New Hampshire DUI Laws
In New Hampshire, DUI charges—often referred to as DWI or “driving while intoxicated”—apply to anyone driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of over 0.08% for adults, 0.04% for commercial drivers, and 0.02% for those under 21.
These limits are set under RSA 265-A:2 and cover impairment by alcohol, prescription medications, or any controlled or over-the-counter substance that can affect driving ability. New Hampshire law includes a per se offense standard, meaning that anyone exceeding the BAC limit can be charged without additional evidence of impairment.
Implied Consent and Administrative Penalties
Under New Hampshire’s implied consent law, all drivers agree to submit to chemical tests if law enforcement suspects intoxication. Refusing a test can result in an administrative license suspension—six months for a first offense and two years for any subsequent refusals.
While these suspensions are separate from criminal penalties, they still affect your driving privileges, which can add to the stress and consequences of a DUI arrest. Our DUI lawyers in Peterborough, NH, can help challenge these penalties at administrative hearings, allowing you to keep your license while the case proceeds.
Penalties for DUI Offenses in New Hampshire
DUI penalties in New Hampshire depend on whether it is your first, second, or third offense. First-time offenders face fines starting at $500, a license suspension lasting 9 months to 2 years, and a mandatory Impaired Driver Care Management Program (IDCMP) assessment.
For second offenses within ten years, penalties increase to include mandatory jail time, a $750 fine, and a three-year license suspension. A third offense results in indefinite license suspension, minimum jail time of 30 days, and fines that can disrupt your life for years.
Aggravating Factors in DUI Charges
Some circumstances may elevate a DUI to an aggravated DWI charge, which is a Class A misdemeanor with harsher penalties. Aggravating factors include a BAC of 0.16% or higher, reckless driving (such as exceeding the speed limit by 30 mph or more), evading police, and causing bodily harm to others.
Act Now to Protect Your Future
Call Cohen & Winters, PLLC, at 603-931-4307 to discuss your case with our DUI lawyers in Peterborough, NH, who will stand by your side and work toward the best possible outcome.