What a Felony DUI Means in West Virginia
In West Virginia, driving under the influence becomes a felony when the situation is more serious. This might be your third DUI within ten years. It might involve serious injury or death to another person. If a child was in the car with you while you were driving under the influence, that could also lead to a felony DUI. These are not small charges. The law sees them as very serious offenses. Unlike a regular DUI, which may lead to fines and a short license suspension, a felony DUI carries heavier penalties. These can include time in prison, large fines, long-term loss of your driving rights, and a permanent criminal record. A felony charge stays with you long after the court case is over.The Impact on Your Job and Career
One of the biggest ways a felony DUI can change your future is through your job. Many people lose their jobs after such a charge. Employers may not want to keep someone with a felony record. If your job involves driving or holding a license, it may be impossible to go back to that work. If you are applying for a new job, having a felony on your record makes it harder to get hired. Even jobs that do not involve driving might ask about your criminal history. If you are in a job that requires a professional license like nursing, teaching, or real estate, a felony DUI might cause you to lose that license. Some companies run background checks every year, so even if you are not fired right away, the charge may catch up with you later. This is something that can follow you for a long time unless it is handled properly.
Harley Wagner
Defending West Virginia Residents for over 24 Years
The Effect on Your Personal Life
A felony DUI can change how people see you. Friends and family may not know how to react. There may be shame, stress, or even anger. You may lose trust with those closest to you. You may find it harder to be involved in your children’s lives or take part in community activities. In some cases, you might be kept from going certain places or seeing certain people, especially if a court says so. It can also affect your freedom. A felony DUI often includes time behind bars. Some people are sentenced to state prison, even for years. Others may be put on strict probation or parole. You might have to attend classes, do community service, or go through treatment programs. You may have to use a breathalyzer device on your car for a long time.The Cost of a Felony DUI
A felony DUI can also be very expensive. You might be ordered to pay large fines by the court. If someone was hurt or killed, you may face lawsuits and have to pay even more. You may lose your car, or need to pay to get it back. You may also have to pay for alcohol treatment, court costs, and supervision fees. On top of all this, losing your job or not being able to find new work makes it harder to keep up with bills. These costs add up fast. Many people do not expect how long the money problems can last. Even after the court part is done, people often struggle for years trying to recover financially from a felony DUI.
Harley and Heather gave me peace of mind as they walked me through the process of my DUI. Heather was so quick to answer even the smallest and probably irrelevant questions I had. I was extremely nervous to walk in the courtroom, but Harley made sure I was in and out of there in no time with the best deal I could think of. My DUI charge was reduced to a speeding ticket and some online DUI classes. Would absolutely recommend Harley and Heather if you’re ever in need of a lawyer.”
- Antea Jarazi
The Wagner Law Firm was amazing from beginning to end dealing with my case. This was my first time ever dealing with anything like this and they helped me tremendously and answered all my questions super fast. We got the best outcome possible for my case and I will be recommending Harley and Heather to anyone that’s ever in my situation."
- Savanna Cummings
Harley and Heather do not stop and are excellent at always keeping their clients up to date on the status of their case and never left wondering. They do all the work and are very well connected throughout the state. I will forever be grateful to both Harley and Heather for what they did for me,,,, they aren’t just another law firm, they are great people who truly care. Thank you."
- Clint Anderson
Why the Way You Handle Your Case Matters
How your case is handled in court makes a big difference. A felony DUI charge may sound final, but it doesn’t have to define your future. Some people get charges reduced or penalties lowered. In some cases, important rights can be protected. Each case is different. The details matter. The way the arrest happened, how the evidence was gathered, and even how past charges are counted can change the outcome of your case. A felony DUI is not something you want to face alone. It’s not the time to guess or take chances. Every step of the case, from bond to hearings to trial, needs careful attention. You deserve someone who understands what’s at stake and can stand up for you.How the Road Ahead Can Be Different
Though a felony DUI is serious, your life is not over. You may feel like you’ve hit rock bottom, but many people go on to rebuild their lives. With the right support, you can take steps to move forward. That includes dealing with the court in a smart way and making real changes in your life. There are times in life when you have to fight for your future. This is one of them. Getting the right help can mean fewer penalties, better options, and more control over what comes next. You may be able to get treatment instead of prison time. You may be able to keep some of your rights. You may be able to stay with your family and hold on to your job.Related Videos
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