DUI Lawyer Chevy Chase — What Are Your Defense Options?
A DUI arrest in Chevy Chase, DC, under D.C. Code § 50-2206.11 carries up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine for a first offense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for DUI charges in DC Superior Court. Our firm, founded in 1997, has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
DC DUI Law and Penalties
In Washington, D.C., driving under the influence (DUI) and operating while intoxicated (OWI) are serious criminal offenses. The primary statute is D.C. Code § 50-2206.11, which prohibits operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or while impaired by alcohol or drugs. DC law distinguishes between DUI (per se) and OWI (impaired), with slightly different penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | DC Superior Court | D.C. Code § 50-2206.11
For official court information, you can visit the DC Courts Case Search portal.
Local DUI Process and Defense Strategy
If arrested for DUI in Chevy Chase, you will likely be processed by the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and have an arraignment in DC Superior Court. The Traffic Division handles DUI/OWI cases. A separate administrative license suspension hearing at the DC DMV must be requested within 15 days of arrest. Prosecutors from the United States Attorney’s Office for DC handle these cases.
- Arraignment: You will appear before a judge within 24 hours of arrest to hear the formal charges.
- DMV Hearing Request: You have 15 days from arrest to request a hearing to contest the automatic license suspension.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will obtain police reports, bodycam footage, and breathalyzer maintenance records to file pre-trial motions.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will negotiate for a reduction or proceed to a bench trial before a judge.
Potential Penalties for a DC DUI
In Chevy Chase, DC, a first-offense DUI carries up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine, while an OWI carries up to 90 days and a $500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DUI (1st) | Misdemeanor | Up to 180 days | Up to $1,000 | 6-month revocation | Ignition interlock, alcohol education |
| OWI (1st) | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | 6-month revocation | Ignition interlock, alcohol education |
| DUI (2nd) | Misdemeanor | Mandatory 10 days min. | Up to $5,000 | 1-year revocation | Ignition interlock for 1 year |
| Test Refusal | Civil Offense | N/A | N/A | 12-month revocation | Separate from criminal case |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in DC Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand the unique procedures of DC Superior Court and the strategies employed by federal prosecutors in DUI cases.
For complex cases, firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight. His experience across multiple jurisdictions informs case strategy.
Local Access for Chevy Chase Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22209, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Our Arlington location serves Chevy Chase clients and is approximately 3 miles from DC Superior Court at 500 Indiana Ave NW, accessible via I-395 and the Judiciary Square Metro (Red Line). We provide a drunk driving defense lawyer Chevy Chase for neighborhoods like American University Park, Spring Valley, Forest Hills, and Friendship Heights. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
DUI Lawyer Chevy Chase FAQ
Is reckless driving a crime in DC?
Yes. Reckless driving in DC under D.C. Code § 50-2201.04 carries up to 90 days in jail and a $250 fine. DUI carries up to 180 days/$1,000. Criminal traffic offenses are heard at DC Superior Court.
Who prosecutes DUI cases in Washington, D.C.?
Criminal cases in DC, including DUI, are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for DC (USAO-DC), not a local district attorney. This is because DC is federal territory where crimes under the D.C. Code are prosecuted by federal attorneys.
Does DC have cash bail for DUI arrests?
No. DC uses the Pretrial Services Agency to assess risk and recommend release conditions—not cash bail. Most defendants are released without posting money, though conditions like alcohol monitoring may be imposed.
How do I fight a license suspension after a DC DUI arrest?
You must request a hearing with the DC DMV Adjudication Services within 15 days of your arrest. This is a separate administrative process from your criminal case in Superior Court. A DUI lawyer Chevy Chase can handle both proceedings.
Can I get a DUI expunged in DC?
It depends. DC allows record sealing under D.C. Code § 16-803 for acquittals, dismissals, and qualifying convictions after waiting periods. Eligibility for sealing a DUI conviction is strict and requires meeting specific criteria.
DC DUI Lawyer Hub | Federal Criminal Lawyer Washington, D.C. | Arlington Law Location
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.