Outer Banks DWI Defense Attorney – Dare & Currituck Counties

If you’ve been charged with Driving While Impaired (DWI) in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, you need more than a lawyer — you need a local defense attorney who knows the roads, the officers, the courts, and the law. At Donahue Defense, attorney Daniel Donahue has focused his practice on DWI defense for over a 15 years, representing clients in Dare County and Currituck County, including Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, Manteo, Southern Shores, Duck, Corolla, and Moyock.

Why Choose Donahue Defense for Your DWI Case?

• Only local Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist in Dare County.
• Member of:
  • National College for DUI Defense (NCDD)
  • DWI Defense Lawyers Association
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (Life Member)
• Completed a summer DWI defense session at Harvard Law School.
• Certified in the same 24-hour DWI Detection & Standardized Field Sobriety Testing course used by law enforcement nationwide.
• Trained to spot police mistakes, testing errors, and constitutional violations that can change the outcome of your case.

What Happens After a DWI Arrest in the OBX

A typical DWI arrest might involve:

1. A traffic stop on Highway 12, 158, or 64.
2. The officer claiming to smell alcohol.
3. Field sobriety tests and/or roadside breath tests.
4. Arrest and transport to a magistrate.
5. Bond being set and your driver’s license confiscated.
6. Receiving confusing paperwork about your court date and rights.

The next morning, the reality sets in — you’re facing serious charges, possible jail time, and a license suspension. We’re here to guide you through every step.

Penalties for DWI in North Carolina

NC law (N.C.G.S. § 20-138.1) allows for penalties that vary based on prior convictions, aggravating factors, and the level assigned at sentencing:

• Fines: $200 to $10,000
• Community Service: 24 hours to extensive hours depending on level
• Jail Time: 24 hours to 3 years
• License Suspension: Up to 1 year (longer for repeat offenses)
• Ignition Interlock Device: Often required for higher BAC or repeat offenses.result.

Our DWI Defense Strategies

Every case is different, but common defense approaches include:

• Challenging the traffic stop – Was there reasonable suspicion to pull you over?
• Examining field sobriety test procedures – Were they administered and scored properly?
• Reviewing breath/blood test protocols – Was the equipment maintained and the test done according to NC law?
• Identifying constitutional violations – Were your rights violated at any point?
• Pursuing license restoration options – We focus on protecting your driving privilege.

Local Knowledge Matters

Because we live and practice here, we know:

• The local prosecutors and judges in Dare & Currituck Counties.
• Common law enforcement practices of agencies such as Nags Head PD, Kill Devil Hills PD, NC Highway Patrol, and the National Park Service.
• The unique challenges for visitors charged while vacationing in the OBX.

Free DWI Consultation – Call or Text Anytime

Don’t navigate your DWI case alone. Contact Donahue Defense today for a free, confidential consultation.

📞 Call: (252) 715-5785
📍 Serving Dare County, Currituck County, and the entire Outer Banks.