Minnesota FUI/FWI Attorney & Lawyer

Airplane pilots have one of the most important jobs in the world – not only are they responsible for monitoring the roads of the air, but they are often also responsible for hundreds of lives in the process. Unlike those on the highways, a plane crash will most likely result in more deaths and more serious injuries to those who do happen to survive. Because of this, airplane pilots are under strict conditions when it comes to flying under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

If you are caught flying under the influence, then you may be convicted of common carrier violation which is a very serious DWI offense. You may be charged under federal or state law with a FUI/FWI charge.

Understanding Common Carrier Violation

The legal system in place for FUI offenses is confusing to say the least. Here are some of the basics under the Federal Aviation Regulations:

• FUI/FWI can occur to pilots of both commercial or private airplanes
• FUI charges can be placed if the pilot has consumed alcohol within eight hours of a flight, is flying while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or has a blood alcohol content of .04. Keep in mind that this is .04 lower than the DUI offense of .08.
• This means that, as a pilot, if you have had several drinks the night before a flight, you could still be arrested for FUI. Even if you have only had one drink a few hours before your flight, you could still be convicted.
• FUI implications not only include imprisonment and fines, but you will also lose your pilot’s license
• Pilots must undergo a chemical test to determine their BAC, often a blood test, a urine test or a breath test. Although you can refuse these chemical tests, you will also receive a fine and revocation of your license under the refusal law.
• If you are a pilot with a previous DUI conviction, you may face harsher fines and penalties

Federal Criminal Lawyer Minnesota

FWI convictions are similar to DUI convictions and will range in severity depending on the situation. If you have been accused, charged or arrested for any common carrier violation, you will need to contact a Minnesota defense attorney right away. As a pilot, you count on flying for your livelihood. This means that a criminal conviction will not only impact your emotional and financial future, but your occupational welfare as well.

Contact Us For A Free Consultation

There are a number of instances where you could get caught and charged with a FUI arrest. You may have forgotten you had a glass of wine with dinner last night; you may not have realized that your BAC was as high as it was; you may not have known you would be flying. However, no matter what the reason, you could still face criminal convictions. This is why it is imperative that you speak with a Minnesota FUI lawyer as soon as you are accused. DeVore Law Office can help with your common carrier violation and assess your case. The team at DeVore Law Office can build you a successful defense strategy that will hold up in federal or state court. Don’t let a FUI charge negatively impact your entire life – contact us today at 651-633-5000 for a free initial consultation and legal advice you can depend on.