Collateral DWI Consequences: Ignition Interlock Device hearing win at DMV

Concord, NH (June, 2023).

Our client was flagged by the Department of Motor Vehicles for an ignition interlock device (IID) hearing. We were very happy to negotiate our client's 2nd driving while intoxicated to a DWI-first offense. This was the client's second charge in three years and through successful litigation and negotiation the client avoided mandatory jail time, kept their job, and was able to regain their driver's license a full two years than permitted for subsequent DWI convictions. A second offense DWI carries a mandatory 3-year license loss.

Some clients will resolve DWI cases and not be aware that the DMV has the power to summon them for a IID hearing. Experience New Hampshire DWI lawyers here can help advise and defend you against this significant consequence. RSA 265-A:36 requires installation of an IID as defined in RSA 259:43-a in any vehicle registered to that person or used by that person for not less than 12 months nor more than 2 years. The DMV can initiate this process in certain situations even if the court did not order installation of an IID.