Aggressive team of highly-experienced lawyers serving all of Louisiana.
Our DWI lawyers in Louisiana can handle your DWI and DUI charges in addition to driver’s license issues, professional license issues, and any other criminal charges. Barkemeyer Law Firm focuses on DWI and DUI cases. We have offices throughout the state. Therefore, we can represent you regardless of where you were arrested. Contact us if you need assistance with your DWI or criminal charges.
Our goal in every DWI case is to keep our clients out of jail, keep them driving legally, and protect their criminal record. We know how to protect our client’s criminal record and driver’s license. We are accustomed to representing clients with much to lose. Our clients have been physicians, nurses, lawyers, accountants, engineers, professors, teachers, students, plant operators, contractors, offshore operators, businessmen, salespeople, active and retired military and more.
When it comes to defending DWI charges in Louisiana, I’ve devoted my career to being at the forefront of this field. With over 20 years of courtroom experience, a deep understanding of Louisiana DWI law, and an unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible results for my clients, I’ve built a statewide reputation as a true authority on DWI defense.
In 2005, I founded the Barkemeyer Law Firm. Our lawyers all share the same commitment to providing premium DWI defense to our clients. Together, we have extensive experience and numerous connections in the courts throughout Louisiana. Therefore, we provide top-notch DWI defense everywhere in Louisiana.
Unlike many law firms that handle a wide variety of criminal cases, my firm focuses primarily on DWI and DUI defense throughout Louisiana. This isn’t just one of the many things we do — it’s what we do best.
Because of that focus, my clients know they’re working with a team that truly understands every angle of DWI defense. My firm and I handle BOTH sides of every DWI case — the criminal prosecution and the administrative driver’s license hearing — providing a seamless, comprehensive defense strategy from start to finish.
Having defended hundreds of DWI cases across the state, we’ve developed the insight that only comes from years of hands-on courtroom experience. My team and I have learned to anticipate how each case might unfold by understanding:
–How local prosecutors operate and what arguments they respond to
-How different judges approach sentencing and probation
-The weaknesses in field sobriety and breath testing procedures
-The nuances of Louisiana’s DMV administrative hearing process
That experience allows us to quickly identify the strongest defense strategy — whether that means challenging test results, negotiating a favorable outcome, or taking the case to trial.
In addition to representing clients, I’ve made it my mission to educate others about DWI law in Louisiana. I wrote the published book “DWI: Practical Information for the Accused and Attorneys in Louisiana,” which serves as a guide for both defendants and attorneys seeking to better understand the process.
I’ve also produced hundreds of educational videos answering common DWI questions and breaking down Louisiana’s complex laws in simple, straightforward terms. Beyond that, I regularly give lectures and presentations on advanced DWI topics to fellow attorneys, students, and community organizations throughout the state.
I’ve always believed that people should have access to real, honest legal information — not just legal jargon or scare tactics. That’s why I maintain an open-door policy when it comes to DWI and driver’s license issues.
I’m available to speak with anyone — from attorneys and court staff to journalists, legislators, or former clients — who needs help understanding Louisiana’s DWI laws or navigating the system. My goal is to be a trusted resource for both the legal community and the public.
Because I handle DWI cases every single day, I have a deep, intuitive understanding of both the technical and strategic sides of DWI defense. My experience includes:
–Challenging faulty breath or blood tests
-Identifying procedural mistakes made by law enforcement
-Anticipating prosecutor strategies and negotiation tactics
-Protecting clients’ rights at both the criminal and administrative levels
It’s this combination of skill, strategy, and daily practice that allows my firm to deliver strong results for my clients — and that’s what separates an experienced DWI lawyer from a true authority in the field.
My work has been recognized by both clients and peers. I hold the AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell — the highest peer review rating for professional excellence and ethical standards. I have consistently been voted as a top DWI lawyer on Expertise, Justia, FindLaw, Lawyers.com, and Avvo. Also, the Barkemeyer Law Firm has an A+ rating with the BBB.
As a proud member of the National College for DUI Defense, the DUI Defense Lawyers Association, and the American Association of Premier DUI Attorneys, I continue to advance my knowledge and share insights with other professionals dedicated to DWI law.
When clients hire us, not only do they get excellent communication directly from a lawyer, instead of a paralegal, but they also benefit from our:
–Mastery of DWI law — it’s our focus, not a sideline
-A proven track record of success in complex DWI cases
-Extensive local knowledge of courts, prosecutors, and procedures
-Comprehensive representation, from court defense to DMV hearings
-Aggressive yet strategic advocacy, designed to protect their record and future
My dedication, leadership, and focus on results have made me one of Louisiana’s most respected and sought-after DWI defense attorneys. Every client I represent benefits from the experience, insight, and commitment that I’ve built over two decades of fighting for the accused.
Upon your release from jail, you will receive a white 8 x 11” paper temporary license from the police that will be valid for 30 days. You’ll also receive a summons or appearance bond sheet with a court date. Some jurisdictions do not provide court dates at the arrest. If the police officer attempts to give you legal advice regarding the complex court and DMV processes, do not take it. Wait to speak to a DWI attorney. Seeking top-notch legal defense immediately is essential for safeguarding your future.
Within 24-48 hours following your release, it is crucial to consult with a DUI attorney to ensure timely initiation of the DMV Administrative Hearing process. Missing the critical 30-day deadline to request the hearing could result in an automatic suspension of your driver’s license. When you reach out to our firm, you will have direct access to a DUI attorney with extensive experience and expertise in effectively defending DUI cases in Louisiana. We can commence the process through phone consultations or in-person meetings. We will provide a comprehensive explanation of the process and outline the immediate steps required to launch your successful DUI defense.
It’s important to recognize that a DWI or DUI case involves two separate proceedings following an arrest:
1) DMV case
2) Criminal court case
Each of these cases operates independently, and we will initiate the necessary preparations for both. View more questions and answers here.
A Tale of Two Cases
The DMV case demands immediate attention due to its time-sensitive nature, as any delay can lead to an automatic driver’s license suspension.
Following your arrest, our primary and urgent task is to contact the DMV to request an Administrative Hearing, secure all pertinent documents such as reports, probable cause statements, Intoxilyzer results and checklist, calibration logs, maintenance technician certifications and information, operator certifications and schedule a DMV hearing date.
When you engage our services, we take care of all these crucial steps on your behalf. We promptly initiate contact with the DMV to safeguard your driving privileges. We inform the DMV of our intention to vigorously contest the case, challenging every aspect of the DWI charge. Our lawyers conduct the hearing on your behalf.
We ensure that the DMV promptly issues you an extended temporary license, allowing you to maintain full driving privileges even after a DWI arrest and past the initial 30 days. Once we receive the police reports and discovery materials from the DMV, we meticulously examine the specific evidence in your case, formulating the most effective defense strategy. The DMV process can be exceedingly challenging, with attempts to suspend driver’s licenses in nearly all DWI-related cases. Our impressive track record demonstrates our success in preserving your driving privileges at the DMV level.
In cases where a hearing results in suspension, we provide guidance to our clients in obtaining a restricted hardship license, assisting them through each step of the process. License suspensions can range from 180 days to several years, and drivers may also be required to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for extended periods.
The second component of a DUI case is the court case, also known as the criminal case. This is where you potentially face a range of penalties, including fines, mandatory classes, and, in severe instances, imprisonment. This takes place in a courtroom at the courthouse with a prosecutor and judge.
The court case represents a major aspect of our defense efforts, given the potential life-altering consequences associated with it. In many instances, you may not need to personally appear in court for the criminal case, as we represent you. Typically, there are multiple court hearings as we defend the DUI charge, and the legal process may last several months. Acquiring all available evidence through the discovery process is critical to constructing a proper defense.
Our firm has a combined over 100 years experience defending clients. During that time, we have successfully represented hundreds of clients charged with misdemeanor DWI and felony DWI in New Orleans, Slidell, Jefferson, Tangipahoa, Shreveport, Bossier, Baton Rouge, Monroe, Livingston, Lafayette, Covington, Lake Charles, and all throughout Louisiana. We know all the legal and technical defenses to a DWI arrest and prosecution and how to fight the DWI to get the best result for our clients.
We recognize that everyone’s case is different because every individual is different. The facts of the stop, field sobriety tests, breathalyzer and other chemical tests, and other information are all different from case to case. Also, each of our clients have different personal and work lives that the DWI may affect. We take all this into consideration when determining how to defend our clients. We speak to our clients to learn about them and their situation and so they understand the court process. This helps our clients because we can build a DWI defense strategy that works best for each client. We strive to be the best DWI lawyer we can be for our clients. See here for more information on our Louisiana DWI defense services.
If you received a DWI or DUI in Louisiana, but live out-of-state or out of the area, our Louisiana DWI lawyers may be able to help. We have represented many clients for DWI who could not attend court dates due to living far away. Depending on your type of case, we may be able to resolve your case without you having to spend money, time, and effort on travel to handle your charge. Hiring Barkemeyer Law Firm is easy. You do not need to come all the way to Louisiana to hire our DWI lawyers.
We have streamlined the process so hiring us is quick and easy because it is done over the internet and phone. We accept all major credit cards. Learn more about our out-of-state defense.
Learn about DWI first offense in Louisiana including the penalties and possible outcomes.
DWI and DUI are actually the same charge in Louisiana under La. R.S. 14:98.
If you’ve been arrested for DWI, you’ll want to watch this video to learn about what to expect and what are myths. Learn more here.
If you got a DWI in Louisiana, but live out-of-state, we can help. Watch the video to learn how.
Only some DWI arrests and/or convictions can be expunged. The expungement process is not automatic. Learn more by watching the video and clicking here.
When you are arrested for DWI in Louisiana is your license automatically suspended? Your license is automatically suspended upon receiving a submittal over the limit or a refusal of a chemical test. However, you have 30 days from the date of arrest in which you can drive on a temporary license. During that time you can have your Louisiana DWI lawyer request a license hearing on your behalf.
What are the fines for DWI first offense in Louisiana? The fines for DWI first offense in Louisiana range from $300-1000. DWI in Louisiana is very expensive because there are many fees that you may end up paying.
Wondering what a possible sentence for a second offense DWI in Louisiana might be?
You may request a paid consultation if you do not plan to hire a lawyer just yet, or you need an in-depth discussion on a particular issue.
If you need to hire a lawyer, submit the form to obtain a free case evaluation. If your case is a good fit for us, we will respond back to discuss more details and provide our fee for representation.
If you need a lawyer for DUI in Louisiana, we can help you. The Barkemeyer Law Firm is a DWI defense law firm. Our primary focus is defending clients charged with DWI and DUI in all areas of Louisiana. Our firm is equipped with four attorneys that defend DWI charges every day. We know DWI and DUI. And we know how to help our clients. We’re here to get you the best result possible in your case. Even if you think you have a bad case, there are many ways we can help minimize the damage. We have to protect your driver’s license, your criminal record, minimize fines and fees, and avoid jail time.
It’s free to Barkemeyer Law Firm clients. Request your copy today or download at the link below!
We offer free consultations for DWI and DUI cases. If you’ve been arrested, feel free to give us a call to discuss the process ahead and our fee for the case.
If the fee is too much to handle at once, we may offer a payment plan in which you put down at least half up front and make payments on the rest.
Our unparalleled track record speaks volumes because we prioritize our clients’ success and liberty above all else. Numerous self-proclaimed “DUI defense attorneys” may make exaggerated promises to win your case out of desperation for business.
At our firm, we don’t make empty promises; we deliver concrete results. When your freedom hangs in the balance, don’t settle for a “decent” DUI defense attorney. Opt for nothing less than the finest.
We defend clients with criminal and DWI charges in all areas of
Louisiana, with offices conveniently located throughout the state.
Our mission is to safeguard your right to drive. DUI charges can lead to lengthy driver’s license suspensions, including for first-time offenders. We possess the expertise to extend your driver’s license and ensure you stay on the road. We vigorously contest the DMV case to shield your license.
To effectively combat and prevent the DMV suspension, it is imperative to take swift action to avoid missing the 30-day hearing deadline request. Failure to meet this deadline will result in the automatic suspension of your license by the DMV. It’s a matter of connections and expertise.
We take care of all aspects of your case. For misdemeanor cases, we usually represent our clients in court, sparing them from having to personally attend. This absence from court allows our clients to concentrate on their top priorities, such as work or school.
After each court appearance, we promptly provide our clients with updates and prepare them for what comes next. In felony DUI cases where client presence is required, we stand beside you, addressing the court’s inquiries and alleviating the pressure on our clients.
If you need a DUI defense attorney in Louisiana, we can help you. The Barkemeyer Law Firm is a DUI defense law firm. Our primary focus is defending clients who have been arrested or received a summons in all areas of Louisiana for DWI and DUI. We represent professionals, college students, and those who are from out-of-state or live out-of-state now.
Barkemeyer Law Firm primarily handles DUI cases throughout the state of Louisiana. Our DUI defense team aggressively fights for clients charged with operating a vehicle while impaired from drugs.
If you were stopped in Louisiana and arrested for DUI or drug charges, you will need the help of a highly-experienced drug and DUI defense lawyer. Drug and DUI charges are different than most criminal charges. They involve many technical legal issues only an experienced DUI attorney can handle.
Barkemeyer Law Firm has focused on defending DUI and drug crimes for over 100 combined years. Barkemeyer Law Firm knows the DUI laws in and out. We know how to minimize damage in court and can help.
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Have you been charged with a Louisiana DWI first offense? If so, this DWI ultimate guide will help you out. Read on!
Louisiana DWI lawyers at the Barkemeyer Law Firm providing legal defense services for clients in ALL of Louisiana.
DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is not formal legal advice nor does it create an attorney-client relationship.
