DWI with Child Under 15 — Charge Reduced

Case Description

Our client, a young single mother, was in a tough spot after leaving a family party where she had been assaulted by a family member. On her way home, the police pulled her over because her car matched the description of a reported missing vehicle. When asked about her evening, she explained that she had just left the gathering where alcohol had been served. With her child in the back seat, the officers arrested her on the spot, charging her with DWI with a minor — a serious felony.

Legal Strategy

We fought hard, negotiating with the district attorney to highlight the misunderstanding that led to her arrest and the fact that she was trying to escape a dangerous situation, not put her child at risk.

Challenges

The key challenge was mitigating the severe implications of a felony conviction for DWI with a minor, which could have drastically impacted our client's life and future. We needed to shift the focus from the charge to the context — she was a victim trying to protect herself and her child.

Resolution

After relentless negotiations, we convinced the DA to reduce the charge from a felony to a misdemeanor. This outcome was a huge relief for our client, allowing her to avoid the life-altering consequences of a felony conviction and continue raising her child without that heavy burden hanging over her.