West Feliciana DWI Attorneys at the Barkemeyer Law Firm.

West Feliciana Parish DWI Lawyer - St. Francisville DUI Attorney

Q: What if my BAC was 0.15 or higher?

On a first offense with BAC ≥ 0.15, Louisiana law requires a mandatory 48 hours in jail even when probation is otherwise possible.

Q: How fast must I act after an arrest?

You generally have 30 days from arrest to request the OMV hearing. Missing that window can trigger a license suspension by default.

Arrested for DWI in West Feliciana Parish? Our firm focuses on DWI/DUI defense across the Capital Region. We handle both the criminal case and the OMV license hearing—your one-stop defense team.

Ready to talk with a DWI/DUI defense team? Contact Us

Our DWI/DUI Experience in West Feliciana Parish

We’ve defended hundreds of DWI/DUI cases statewide. That focused caseload means fluency in traffic-stop law, field sobriety testing, breath/blood protocols, device maintenance records, and local court practices. We move quickly to protect your license and build the strongest defense the facts allow.

Nearby coverage: Pointe Coupee Parish • East Feliciana Parish

About Carl Barkemeyer

Carl Barkemeyer concentrates his practice on Louisiana DWI/DUI defense—from first offenses to complex multi-offense and high-BAC prosecutions. He provides practical guidance through his Louisiana DWI book, detailed video explainers, and trainings for lawyers on field sobriety testing, chemical testing, and courtroom strategy.

Core focus: DWI/DUI is a primary mission, not a sideline.
Recognized credentials: AV Preeminent® rating (Martindale-Hubbell).
Professional memberships: National College for DUI Defense, DUI Defense Lawyers Association, American Association of Premier DUI Attorneys.

Why Choose Our West Feliciana Parish DWI Defense Team

Focused practice: DWI/DUI every day—criminal court and OMV.
Local insight: We understand how cases move through St. Francisville and surrounding communities.
Strategic advocacy: From dismissal efforts to negotiated outcomes, and trial when necessary.

What Happens After a DWI Arrest in West Feliciana Parish

OMV Hearing & Temporary License

After a chemical test at or above 0.08 (or 0.02 if under 21) or a refusal, your license is typically seized and you receive a temporary receipt. You generally have 30 days from arrest to request an OMV administrative hearing in writing—act fast to protect your driving privileges.

The Criminal Case

Louisiana’s DUI (often called “DWI”) covers impairment by alcohol or drugs and per-se BAC violations. We scrutinize the stop, detention, FSTs, chemical testing, and device maintenance logs to build your defense and preserve appellate issues.

Potential Penalties Under Louisiana Law (Overview)

First Offense: Typically a fine of $300–$1,000 and 10 days–6 months in jail; many first offenses result in probation with conditions. If a child passenger is involved, penalties can increase—learn more: First Offense DWI with Child Endangerment.
Enhanced BAC (≥ 0.15): Mandatory 48 hours (two days) in jail on a first offense—even when probation might otherwise apply.
Second Offense: Harsher jail exposure, longer suspensions, and ignition-interlock requirements are common. Details: Second Offense DWI in Louisiana.

Considering record relief after your case? Review Article 894 & DWI Expungement.

Where West Feliciana Parish DWI Cases Are Handled

DWI matters in West Feliciana Parish are generally heard at the West Feliciana Parish Courthouse in St. Francisville. We manage filings, discovery, appearances, and guide you through local procedures and calendars so you know what to expect at every step.

How We Defend Your Case

Immediate OMV action: File and argue your administrative hearing to challenge the proposed suspension.
Evidence review: Dash/body-cam footage, stop and detention legality, FST administration, breath/blood protocols, and device records.
Negotiation & litigation: Seek reduction/dismissal when appropriate, preserve appellate issues, and structure outcomes that protect your future.

Have questions about your specific situation? Contact Us for a case review.

West Feliciana Parish DWI FAQs

Do I have to appear in person in St. Francisville?

Many DWI settings require personal appearance, but some procedural matters can be handled by counsel. We’ll advise which dates require you and when we can appear for you.

What if my BAC was 0.15 or higher?

On a first offense with BAC ≥ 0.15, Louisiana law requires a mandatory 48 hours in jail even when probation is otherwise possible. We evaluate testing accuracy, device maintenance, and procedure to challenge enhancements.

Can I pursue an Article 894 disposition and later expungement?

Potentially. Eligibility depends on disposition and case facts. Learn how Article 894 may support record relief: 894 DWI Expungement.

How are second offenses handled here?

Second offenses increase jail exposure, lengthen suspension windows, and often require ignition interlock. See: Second Offense DWI in Louisiana.

Does a child passenger change penalties?

Yes. Child-endangerment provisions can significantly increase exposure—even for first offenses. Read more: First Offense DWI with Child Endangerment.

How fast must I act after an arrest?

You generally have 30 days from arrest to request the OMV hearing. Missing that window can trigger a license suspension by default. We file quickly and build the criminal-case defense in parallel.

Next Step

Ready to protect your license and record in West Feliciana Parish?

Disclaimer: This page is informational only and not legal advice. Laws and procedures change—consult current Louisiana law and a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation.