DUI / DWI Laws in North Carolina: What You Should Know in Forsyth and Guilford Counties

Driving while impaired (DWI), also known as driving under the influence (DUI), is a serious offense in North Carolina. The penalties can be harsh — from heavy fines and license suspension to possible jail time — and the consequences can follow you for years. Understanding how DUI / DWI laws work in Winston-Salem, Greensboro, and the surrounding areas of Forsyth and Guilford Counties can help you make informed decisions and protect your rights.

At The Law Office of Miguel A. Cuadra, LLC, we represent clients throughout North Carolina who are facing DWI or DUI charges. Our firm works with many Spanish-speaking clients in Winston-Salem and Greensboro, ensuring that everyone we serve fully understands the legal process and their options.

Understanding North Carolina’s DWI Laws
Under North Carolina General Statute § 20-138.1, it is illegal to drive a vehicle while under the influence of an impairing substance, or with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. For commercial drivers, the BAC limit is 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, any amount of alcohol in their system can result in a charge.

A DWI arrest can result from alcohol, illegal drugs, or even prescription medications that impair your ability to drive safely. Law enforcement officers in Forsyth and Guilford Counties are trained to identify signs of impairment through field sobriety tests and chemical testing.

The Legal Process After a DWI Arrest in Winston-Salem or Greensboro
If you are arrested for DWI in North Carolina, you will likely be taken to a local detention center, such as the Forsyth County Detention Center or the Guilford County Jail. Your license may be suspended immediately if you refuse a breath or blood test under the state’s “implied consent” law.

After your arrest, you will have a court date in either Forsyth County District Court (Winston-Salem) or Guilford County District Court (Greensboro or High Point). The outcome of your case will depend on several factors, including your BAC level, prior DWI convictions, and any aggravating or mitigating circumstances.

Levels of DWI Punishment in North Carolina
North Carolina uses a five-level system for DWI sentencing.

• Level 5 (least severe): Up to 60 days in jail and fines up to $200

• Level 4: Up to 120 days in jail and fines up to $500

• Level 3: Up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $1,000

• Level 2: Up to 12 months in jail and fines up to $2,000

• Level 1 (most severe): Up to 24 months in jail and fines up to $4,000

For drivers with prior DWI convictions or aggravating factors — such as causing injury, driving with a child in the car, or having a very high BAC — penalties can be even more severe.

License Suspension and Ignition Interlock Requirements
In addition to criminal penalties, a DWI conviction can lead to the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. For a first-time DWI in North Carolina, your license can be suspended for up to one year. Repeat offenders face longer suspensions and may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle before being allowed to drive again.

An ignition interlock device requires the driver to pass a breath test before the car will start. These devices are commonly required in Forsyth and Guilford Counties for repeat offenders or those with high BAC levels.

DWI and Immigration Consequences
For many Spanish-speaking residents in Winston-Salem and Greensboro, a DWI charge can also have serious immigration consequences. Depending on your status, a DWI conviction may affect your ability to renew a visa, apply for citizenship, or remain in the country. Having a legal team that understands these issues and can communicate clearly in both English and Spanish is essential.

Avoiding Common Mistakes After a DWI Arrest
If you are charged with DWI in North Carolina, avoid the following mistakes:

• Failing to appear in court or ignoring your citation

• Talking to law enforcement without understanding your rights

• Assuming you must plead guilty before reviewing all the evidence

• Continuing to drive while your license is suspended

These actions can make your situation worse and may result in additional charges.

How DWI Cases Are Handled in Forsyth and Guilford Counties
Local courts in Winston-Salem and Greensboro handle hundreds of DWI cases each year. The process can be complex, involving license hearings, plea negotiations, and evidence reviews such as dashcam or bodycam footage. Every detail matters, from how the stop was conducted to whether proper procedures were followed during testing.

The laws in North Carolina are strict, but with the right defense, it’s possible to challenge evidence, reduce penalties, or even have the charges dismissed.

At The Law Office of Miguel A. Cuadra, LLC, we help clients throughout Forsyth and Guilford Counties understand their rights and options after a DWI arrest. Our bilingual team works closely with Spanish-speaking clients to ensure they have full access to the legal system and can make informed choices about their defense.

If you or someone you know has been charged with a DWI or DUI in Winston-Salem, Greensboro, or the surrounding areas, it’s important to take the situation seriously. Understanding the law, your rights, and the local court process can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.