VIRGINIA

DWI Statute

In the state of Virginia, a driving while intoxicated offense is:

Code of Virginia,  Section 18.2-270

Typical Sentencing for First Offense

Jail Up to 1 year
Fines $250-300
License Revocation 1 year
Interlock Ignition Device (IID) Possible
Probation 1 year

Alternative Resolutions

These can reduce your sentence and in some cases lead to no conviction which are called conditional discharge. Admissibility remains unavailable until completion and in the interim of these alternative programs.

Availability for DWI                                                 No

Background checks

Pleading Down

Pleading guilty to some offenses is not equivalent to a crime in Canada, therefore it does not result in inadmissibility. Your lawyer could argue for a traffic violation or highway obstruction to contest a DUI/DWI which do not result in inadmissibility to Canada. Not all plea bargains will ensure admissibility.

Availability for DWI Yes
Possible plea(s) Reckless Driving

Expungement & Pardons

This allows your criminal record to be cleared. DUI convictions are eligible for expungements after the completion of the sentence, provided that there are no other charges pending against the offender.

Availability for DWI No
General info
  • Deferred adjudication, but no expungement, for certain first-time drug offenders
  • Absolute pardon entitles person to expungement. Automatic destruction of most juvenile records if person is at least age 19 and five years have elapsed since any juvenile hearing in any case, with several exceptions
  • Non-conviction records may be expunged where case results in acquittal, nolle prosequi, or dismissal

Application Links

If inadmissibility to Canada cannot be avoided, these are the remedies offered:

FWCanada free consultation offer

At FWCanada, we are happy to offer free consultation to promptly provide honest assessment of your case and chances of success. As one of the leading immigration law firms in the country specializing in criminal inadmissibility, we have extensive experience in handling a wide range of cases. We prioritize detailed review of each client’s case to optimise application approval.

Please call on our toll free number: +1 (855) 316 3555 to ask all your burning questions and remedy confusions, because providing honest and accurate advice is our ethos.

FWCanada is a Montreal-based immigration law firm that provides professional legal services on Canadian immigration. For more tips and updates on Canadian immigration, follow FWCanada on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.