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Ignition Interlock for All DUIs in Virginia

This July, Virginia will require everyone convicted of DUI to install an ignition interlock device if they want a restricted license.  Judges differ whether the July 1st date applies to all those convicted after June 30th or those arrested after June 30th and subsequently convicted.

The Washington Post estimates that the new law will cause 18,000 people per year to spend about $500 for a six month installation.[1]  The Post also estimates a 400% increase in the amount of people needing installation.  In some areas of the Commonwealth it already takes 3 to 4 weeks for installation.  How long it will take after July 1st is anyone’s guess.

The new law does allow people to “pre-qualify” for ignition interlock by enrolling in the Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program (VASAP) before trial.[2]  The hope is that this will skip you ahead in the long line of those waiting for interlock. Under current rules, this privilege will cost you at least $300 in ASAP fees.  Of course, this fee is nonrefundable if you are found not guilty.   

Below is a recent article in the Richmond Times Dispatch on this very subject of Ignition Interlock for All DUI/DWI’s in Virginia:

http://www2.timesdispatch.com/news/2012/jun/25/tdmain01-cost-of-dui-to-rise-for-many-first-time-o-ar-2010924/_

 


[1] Virginia Ignition Interlock Law for First-time DUI Offenders Sparks Controversy, The Washington Post, April 9, 2012, available at http://www.drugfree.org/join-together/alcohol/virginia-ignition-interlock-law-for-first-time-dui-offenders-sparks-controversy.

[2] Va. Code § 18.2-270.1.

Jeffrey C. Martin, Esq.
The Law Firm of Michael C. Tillotson
13195 Warwick Boulevard, Suite 2A
Newport News, Virginia 23602


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Mike Tillotson

Mike Tillotson

Mr. Tillotson graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Studies in 1986. He received the Alpha Signa Award for graduating with the highest grade point average in his field of study. In 1990, he received his juris doctor from Marshall-Wythe School of Law at the College of William and Mary. Being involved in professional legal organizations allows attorneys to keep abreast of the latest information in their field. Mr. Tillotson is an active member of the Virginia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the National College for DUI Defense as well as a Lifetime Member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. He has also been recognized by the National College for DUI Defense for his dedication to defending citizens who have been accused of driving while intoxicated. Mr. Tillotson was recognized as one of The American Trial Lawyers Association's Top 100 Trial Lawyers from Virginia.

One Response

  1. These numbers are itniresnetg in that they suggest that very few people have charges dismissed outright or win an acquittal. In your experience, what percentage of cases actually result in a dismissal or acquittal?

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