Felony DUI Lawyer Dupont Circle — What Are Your Defense Options?
A felony DUI in Washington, D.C., under D.C. Code § 50-2206.11 is a serious criminal charge with mandatory jail time for repeat offenses. If you are facing a third offense DUI charge in Dupont Circle, you need a felony DUI lawyer Dupont Circle. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for felony drunk driving cases.
Last verified: April 2026 | DC Superior Court | D.C. Code § 50-2206.11
What Is a Felony DUI in Washington, D.C.?
In Washington, D.C., a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or OWI (Operating While Impaired) is typically charged as a misdemeanor for a first or second offense. However, a third or subsequent DUI offense within a 15-year period is classified as a felony under D.C. law. A felony DUI conviction carries significantly harsher penalties, including longer mandatory minimum jail sentences, larger fines, and a permanent criminal record. The prosecution of these cases is handled by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia at the DC Superior Court.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see D.C. Code § 50-2206.11 (official D.C. Council code). Court information and procedures can be found at the DC Courts website.
Local Court Process for a Felony DUI Case in Dupont Circle
An arrest for a felony DUI in Dupont Circle typically involves the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). The case proceeds at the DC Superior Court. Prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office take these charges very seriously, especially for a third offense DUI charge. A felony drunk driving defense lawyer Dupont Circle must be prepared to challenge the evidence from the start.
- Arraignment: You will be brought before a judge at DC Superior Court for an initial hearing, where the felony charges are formally read.
- Pretrial Motions: Your attorney can file motions to suppress evidence, such as breathalyzer results or the traffic stop itself, if police procedure was violated.
- Negotiation & Strategy: Given the mandatory jail time, your lawyer will negotiate with prosecutors for a reduction in charges or explore diversion programs if eligible.
- Trial Preparation: If no acceptable plea is offered, your case will proceed to a jury trial where the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on statutory minimums and any mitigating factors presented by your defense.
- DMV Hearing: A separate administrative hearing to challenge your driver’s license revocation must be requested within 15 days of arrest.
Penalties for a Felony DUI in D.C.
In Washington, D.C., a felony DUI (third offense within 15 years) carries a mandatory minimum of 15 days in jail, with a maximum of one year, and fines up to $10,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DUI – 3rd Offense (within 15 yrs) | Felony | 15 days to 1 year (mandatory min.) | Up to $10,000 | Revocation for 2+ years | Ignition interlock, permanent criminal record, possible vehicle forfeiture |
| DUI – 2nd Offense | Misdemeanor | 10 days to 1 year (mandatory min.) | Up to $5,000 | Revocation for 1 year | Ignition interlock, alcohol education program |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in D.C. Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to complex cases like felony DUI defense. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, is a former prosecutor who understands how the government builds its case. This perspective is invaluable when defending against serious charges in DC Superior Court.
Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in criminal cases. In one D.C. Superior Court case, we secured a dismissal for a client facing a misdemeanor sex abuse charge.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
For a felony DUI defense, you need a lawyer with a proven track record of handling high-stakes criminal litigation.
Contact Our Dupont Circle Felony DUI Lawyers
Our Arlington, VA location serves clients in Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C. We are approximately 3 miles from DC Superior Court, accessible via I-395 and the Judiciary Square Metro (Red Line).
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. We serve neighborhoods including Dupont Circle, Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Adams Morgan, and Columbia Heights.
Felony DUI Lawyer Dupont Circle FAQ
Is a third DUI a felony in Washington, D.C.?
Yes. Under D.C. Code § 50-2206.11, a third DUI offense within a 15-year period is charged as a felony. It carries mandatory jail time, significant fines, and a lengthy license revocation.
What is the penalty for a felony DUI in D.C.?
It depends on the specific circumstances and prior record. The statutory penalty for a third offense includes a mandatory minimum of 15 days in jail, up to one year, and fines up to $10,000. A strong defense from a felony DUI lawyer Dupont Circle is essential to mitigate these consequences.
Who prosecutes DUI cases in Washington, D.C.?
All criminal DUI cases in D.C., including felonies, are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia (USAO-DC). They are heard at the DC Superior Court, not a local district attorney’s office.
Can I fight a license suspension for a D.C. DUI?
Yes. You have 15 days from your arrest to request an administrative hearing with the DC DMV to contest the automatic license suspension. This is a separate proceeding from your criminal case, and having a lawyer for both is critical.
What should I do if I’m charged with a felony DUI in Dupont Circle?
First, do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Second, immediately contact a felony drunk driving defense lawyer Dupont Circle who knows the DC Superior Court system. The sooner we can review the evidence and police report, the stronger your defense can be.
Related Pages: Washington D.C. DUI Lawyer Hub | Federal Criminal Lawyer Washington, D.C. | Our Arlington, VA Law Location
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.