Knowledgeable in Protecting Drivers’ Rights

The Law Office of Pleasant S. Brodnax, III defends clients against criminal prosecution

Throughout Virginia and the District of Columbia, law enforcement officials have been expanding efforts to crack down on drunk driving offenses. Being convicted of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated can have serious consequences, including loss of license, higher insurance costs, heavy fines and jail time. I have the knowledge necessary to challenge the evidence against you, and the ability to help you attain the best possible outcome.

Advocate committed to challenging drunk driving charges

I understand that good people can make mistakes. I strive to satisfy my clients’ emotional, financial and legal needs by zealously representing your interests at every turn. I am knowledgeable about complex Virginia and District of Columbia DUI laws, and analyze every aspect of your case — from the initial traffic stop to Breathalyzer tests — to build your defense. I know what the prosecution needs to get a conviction, and I challenge the evidence against you with the skill I have developed through real-world experience. I work hard to make sure that you get the respect you deserve and the results you desire.

What to do if you are stopped

If you have been pulled over by the police, there are several ways that you can help yourself:

• Do not be intimidated by the police. If you are nervous, police officers may think that you are hiding something or are intoxicated. Don’t give them that opportunity.
• Remain calm and be courteous.  Some of the best advice to avoid escalation of an otherwise “routine” police encounter.
• Clean out your glove box. Fumbling through these compartments to find your registration or insurance can be easily misinterpreted as intoxication. Keeping the glove box or center console neat and clean allows you to swiftly grab your identification and present it to a police officer.
• Do not consent to a search of your car. Any evidence found in your car could be used to support a DUI conviction. Do not allow the officer to perform a search without a warrant.
• Do not answer unnecessary questions.  Politely tell the officer you are uncomfortable answering questions as to where you have been, where you are going, what have you been doing, or whether you have consumed any alcoholic beverages.  It will only provide reasons for further questioning or cause to have you exit the vehicle.
• Do not perform field sobriety tests. Only the police officer’s version of how you performed any walk and turn or counting tests will be credited in court.  You may think you passed all the tests, but if the officer doesn’t, then you have provided probable cause to be arrested.
• Contact a DWI attorney immediately.

Contact me today for a consultation.

If you have been arrested for DUI, you need a qualified defense attorney who has the knowledge and experience to help you win. Call me at the Law Office of Pleasant S. Brodnax, III today at 202-462-1100 or contact me online to set up a consultation.