1ST DUI OFFENSE
First DUI Offense in Virginia: What You Need to Know
A first-time DUI charge in Virginia can feel overwhelming. You’re likely scared about what comes next—your license, your record, your job, and your reputation may all be on the line. At Battlefield Law Group, PLLC, we understand what you’re facing, and we’re here to guide you through it with clarity, skill, and compassion.
Our attorneys defend DUI cases across Northern Virginia, including Prince William County, Fairfax, Loudoun, Stafford, Alexandria, Manassas, and Arlington. If this is your first offense, your case may offer unique opportunities to mitigate penalties or avoid conviction—but it’s critical to act fast.
Virginia First Offense DUI Laws: Va. Code § 18.2-266
In Virginia, it is illegal to operate a vehicle:
With a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher
While under the influence of alcohol or drugs
With certain levels of drugs in your system, including marijuana and prescription medications
A first DUI offense is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor, but the consequences can still be life-altering.
Penalties for a First DUI Offense in Virginia
If convicted, you face:
Up to 12 months in jail
A fine of $250 to $2,500
12-month driver’s license suspension
Ignition interlock device for restricted license
Mandatory Alcohol Safety Action Program (VASAP)
A criminal record that cannot be expunged if convicted
If your BAC was 0.15% or higher, you face mandatory jail time, even on a first offense.
Northern Virginia DUI Arrests Are Common—and Often Defensible
According to Virginia DMV data, more than 18,000 DUI convictions occur statewide each year. Many are first-time offenses involving otherwise law-abiding citizens. We’ve helped countless clients in your position avoid jail time, preserve their licenses, and protect their futures.
Police officers often make procedural mistakes, rely on flawed roadside testing, or misinterpret field sobriety performance. We scrutinize every aspect of your case—from the stop, to the arrest, to the breath or blood test—to build a strong defense.
Serving All of Northern Virginia
We represent clients in:
Prince William County (Manassas, Woodbridge, Dale City)
Fairfax County (Fairfax City, Reston, Tysons)
Loudoun County (Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling)
Stafford County (Stafford, Falmouth)
Alexandria, Arlington, Manassas Park, and more
No matter where your DUI arrest happened in Northern Virginia, our attorneys are ready to stand between you and a criminal conviction.
CONTACT BATTLEFIELD LAW GROUP, PLLC
info@battlefieldlawgroup.com
Call: 571-364-0500
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DUI Defense Done Differently — It’s Not a Side Hustle. It’s Our Focus, Our Craft, and Your Edge in Court.
Why Choose Battlefield Law Group?
DUI defense isn’t a sideline for us—it’s a core focus. Our attorneys regularly attend national DUI/DWI defense conferences to stay on top of evolving science, trial tactics, and constitutional protections.
We take pride in fighting for people—not judging them. You may be at a difficult point in your life, but that doesn’t define you. We treat our clients with respect, listen carefully, and work toward the best possible outcome for every case.
OUR CLIENT TESTIMONIALS SPEAK FOR US!