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North Carolina DUI / DWI Defense Attorneys
Aggressive Defense from Local Attorneys Who Know NC Law
King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law – Serving Hickory, Newton, and Surrounding Areas
If you've been charged with driving while impaired (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI) in North Carolina, the consequences can be severe — even for a first offense. A conviction can lead to license suspension, fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. That’s why you need experienced local attorneys who understand how to challenge evidence, fight for reduced penalties, and protect your future.
At King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law, we provide aggressive, strategic DUI/DWI defense for clients throughout Catawba County and Western North Carolina. If you’re searching for a DWI attorney near me, we are the local legal team with courtroom experience, proven results, and a strong reputation for helping people move forward.
Understanding DUI / DWI Charges in North Carolina
Under North Carolina General Statute § 20-138.1, it is illegal to drive a vehicle on any public road:
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While under the influence of an impairing substance (alcohol, drugs, or prescription medication)
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With a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher
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With any amount of impairing substance in your system if under age 21 (zero tolerance)
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While noticeably impaired, even if BAC is below the legal limit
You can be charged with DWI even if:
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You refused a breath or blood test
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Your BAC was under 0.08%, but your driving was impaired
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You were on legal medication that affected your ability to drive
📘 N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-138.1 – Impaired Driving
DUI / DWI Penalties in North Carolina
North Carolina uses a structured sentencing system with six levels of punishment based on aggravating and mitigating factors.
First-Offense DWI Penalties May Include:
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Fines up to $4,000
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Jail time from 24 hours to 2 years
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Mandatory substance abuse assessments
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License suspension for up to 12 months
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Installation of an ignition interlock device
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Higher insurance premiums
Penalties increase significantly for:
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Repeat offenses
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High BAC levels (0.15% or more)
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Accidents involving injury
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Driving with a minor in the car
How King & Rowe Can Help with Your DUI/DWI Defense
If you’re facing a DWI charge in North Carolina, time is critical. From challenging the legality of the traffic stop to disputing breathalyzer results, King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law uses every legal tool to protect your rights.
Our Defense Strategies May Include:
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Challenging the traffic stop or probable cause
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Suppressing field sobriety test results
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Disputing breath or blood test accuracy
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Investigating police procedures and rights violations
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Negotiating reduced charges or alternative sentencing
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Representing you at DMV license suspension hearings
DMV License Suspension and Restoration
In most cases, your driver’s license will be suspended immediately following a DWI arrest. We guide you through:
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DMV hearings to contest the suspension
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Applying for limited driving privileges
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Steps to reinstate your license after suspension
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Ignition interlock requirements
📘 NC DMV – Limited Driving Privilege Info
Local Attorneys Who Know the System
If you’re looking for a DWI attorney near me, choose a firm that knows your local courts. At King & Rowe, we routinely represent clients in:
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Catawba County District Court
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Burke, Alexander, and Caldwell Counties
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Cities like Hickory, Newton, Conover, Lenoir, Morganton, and more
We’re known and respected by local judges and prosecutors — and we use that knowledge to your advantage.
Why Choose King & Rowe?
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✅ Proven DUI/DWI Defense Strategies
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✅ Courtroom-Tested Trial Attorneys
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✅ Personalized Legal Attention
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✅ Local Representation You Can Rely On
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✅ Named Best Law Office by Catawba County Readers’ Choice Awards
Whether it’s your first offense or a repeat charge, we’ll work tirelessly to get the best outcome possible.
Schedule a Free DUI/DWI Consultation
If you’ve been arrested for DWI or DUI in North Carolina, don’t wait. The sooner you involve an experienced defense attorney, the better your chances of a favorable result. Contact King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law today for a free consultation.
📞 Call Now: (828) 244-2562
🖱️ Contact Us Online: kingrowelaw@gmail.com
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How long do I have to be separated before filing for divorce in NC?North Carolina law requires spouses to be separated for at least one year before either party can file for divorce. Separation means living in separate residences with at least one spouse intending for the separation to be permanent.
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Do I need a legal separation agreement to start the one-year separation period?No. A formal separation agreement is not required to start the separation period. Simply living apart with the intent to remain separate is sufficient.
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Is North Carolina a no-fault divorce state?Yes, North Carolina allows for no-fault divorce, meaning that neither spouse needs to prove wrongdoing. The only requirements are one year of separation and at least one spouse having lived in the state for six months before filing.
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How long does the divorce process take?Once the divorce complaint is filed and served, the other spouse has 30 days to respond. After that, the court can schedule a hearing, and the divorce can typically be finalized within 45 to 90 days, depending on court availability.
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Does North Carolina require mediation before filing for divorce?Mediation is not required for an absolute divorce, but it is often required for disputes involving child custody and equitable distribution of property.
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How is property divided in a divorce?North Carolina follows equitable distribution, meaning the court divides marital property fairly, though not necessarily equally. Factors such as income, contributions to the marriage, and economic circumstances are considered.
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Am I entitled to alimony in my divorce?Alimony is not automatic. Courts consider factors such as income disparity, marital misconduct, duration of the marriage, and financial needs to determine if spousal support is appropriate
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What happens to debts in a divorce?Marital debts, like assets, are equitably divided. Generally, debts incurred during the marriage are shared, while individual debts taken before or after separation remain with the responsible party.
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Do I have to go to court for my divorce?If both parties agree on all terms, a divorce can be completed through an uncontested filing without a court appearance. However, contested divorces require court involvement.
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What if my spouse refuses to sign the divorce papers?A spouse’s refusal to sign does not stop the divorce. As long as the filing requirements are met, the court can grant a divorce even if one party does not consent.
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Can I remarry immediately after my divorce is final?Yes, once the court issues the final divorce decree, you are legally free to remarry without any waiting period.
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Do I need an attorney for my divorce?While it is possible to file for divorce without an attorney, legal representation is highly recommended, especially in cases involving property division, alimony, or child custody. For further legal guidance, contact King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law to schedule a consultation with an experienced Hickory-based family law attorney.
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Why should you choose King & Rowe Attorneys?
Being born and raised in Hickory, we are proud of the heritage and deep-rooted connections we have in the community. However, what matters most to us is serving our clients with excellence and integrity. We have the experience and legal skills needed to handle a wide variety of cases, from family law to criminal defense. At King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law, our focus is on helping our clients reach their desired outcome, no matter what legal challenges they may be facing.
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