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New Hampshire DUI vs DWI: What’s the Difference?

  • By: MMM
  • Published: August 9, 2023

If you have received charges for a DUI or DWI, you may wonder what the difference is between the two charges. Are there differences in what the law says about each of these charges? Does an arrest for one or the other carry more severity and potential consequences? However, a DUI and DWI mean the same thing in New Hampshire law, so there are no differences in what the law says and possible penalties.

While a DUI and DWI generally mean the same thing within New Hampshire, you may still have other questions about the legal system. Navigating the process after receiving a criminal charge can be difficult, but you don’t have to attempt to handle everything alone. A DWI defense attorney from Hayes Law, PLLC can provide valuable assistance and clarity during this challenging time. 

Is There a Difference Between a DUI and a DWI?

Technically speaking, a DUI and DWI are not different under New Hampshire law. This means that each acronym has similar meanings and that penalties are essentially the same. However, New Hampshire officially writes its laws using “DWI,” so this may be the acronym you are most likely to hear.

“DUI” stands for “driving under the influence” and is most often associated with alcohol- or drug-influenced operation of a vehicle. “DWI” means “driving while intoxicated” or “driving while impaired.” There’s also another acronym, “OUI,” meaning operating under the influence. While it’s less common, a charge for an OUI in New Hampshire will have the same implications as a DUI or DWI.

Understanding the ins and outs of New Hampshire law can be difficult, especially when there is a chance that many acronyms and new words will be misunderstood. Working with a DWI defense attorney can make a significant difference in how quickly and easily you move forward, as a lawyer will be familiar with the language of the law. Your attorney can also take legal tasks off your plate, reducing your stress and allowing you to focus on other priorities.

Should You Work With an Attorney After a DUI or DWI Charge?

We recommend that anyone involved in legal matters, including receiving a DUI or DWI charge, work with a lawyer. In particular, getting assistance from a DWI defense attorney can make a significant difference to your case. Your lawyer can complete and file paperwork, speak on your behalf, level the playing field against other legal representatives and parties, and collect and analyze evidence related to your case.

We strongly encourage you to refrain from representing yourself during your legal matters, as there’s a significant risk that you will portray your case and circumstances unfavorably. Working with an attorney can help ensure you receive fair representation, which will likely reduce potential consequences and penalties that might come with a conviction. Our lawyer from Hayes Law, PLLC is a fantastic option if you’re interested in receiving legal assistance, and we encourage you to contact us to retain our services.

Get Valuable Help From Our Hayes Law, PLLC DWI Defense Lawyer

If you have received charges for a DUI or DWI in New Hampshire, you don’t need to manage the upcoming challenges alone and without support. Our attorney from Hayes Law, PLLC would be proud to support you during this challenging process, and you can trust us to bring great results to your case. We have a long track record of reducing potential penalties for our clients, and we would be happy to do the same for you.

When you want legal assistance with your DWI or DUI case, we encourage you to contact us. After you retain our services, we can answer your questions and help you move forward through your legal matters. You can reach out to us by calling (978) 314-4950 or completing the contact form on our website at your earliest convenience.