Georgetown Felony DUI Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A felony DUI in Georgetown, DC, under D.C. Code § 50-2206.11 is a serious criminal charge with severe penalties. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for felony drunk driving charges. Our team understands the high stakes and the unique procedures at DC Superior Court. We offer 24/7 phone consultations to begin building your defense immediately.
Last verified: April 2026 | DC Superior Court | D.C. Code
Understanding Felony DUI Charges in Washington, D.C.
In the District of Columbia, a DUI is typically charged as a misdemeanor. However, certain aggravating factors can elevate the charge to a felony, carrying significantly harsher consequences. The primary statute governing DUI offenses is D.C. Code § 50-2206.11 (Operating While Intoxicated). A felony DUI lawyer Georgetown is essential when facing these enhanced charges, which may stem from prior convictions, causing serious bodily injury, or having a minor in the vehicle.
The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose background provides critical insight into how these cases are built and prosecuted.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of D.C. DUI laws, refer to the District of Columbia Code. All felony DUI cases in Georgetown are adjudicated at the DC Superior Court.
Local Court Process for a Felony DUI Case
Felony DUI cases in Georgetown follow a specific path through the DC Superior Court. After an arrest by MPD or Capitol Police, you will be arraigned. The case then proceeds through pre-trial motions and potentially to trial. A key procedural fact is that the DC DMV conducts a separate administrative hearing for your driver’s license, which is independent of the criminal case. A felony drunk driving defense lawyer Georgetown must handle both proceedings.
- Arraignment at DC Superior Court following arrest.
- File a request for a DMV administrative hearing within 15 days to challenge license suspension.
- Engage in pre-trial discovery and motion practice to challenge the evidence.
- Evaluate all options, including potential plea negotiations or preparing for trial.
- Address sentencing requirements, such as mandatory ignition interlock, if convicted.
- Manage post-conviction matters, including appeals and compliance with court orders.
Potential Penalties for Felony DUI in DC
In Georgetown, a felony DUI conviction can result in years of incarceration, substantial fines, and a lengthy license revocation.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DUI 3rd+ Offense | Felony | Mandatory min. 15 days, up to 1 year | Up to $10,000 | Revocation for 2+ years | Mandatory alcohol treatment, ignition interlock |
| DUI Causing Injury | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Revocation | Potential civil liability for damages |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Serious DUI Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Founded in 1997, our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a felony DUI charge threatens your freedom, finances, and future. Our approach is built on meticulous case analysis and aggressive defense strategies case-specific to the specifics of DC law.
Case Results
Our attorneys have successfully defended clients against serious charges in DC courts. For instance, we secured a dismissal for a client facing a misdemeanor sex abuse charge in DC Superior Court. While every case is unique, this result demonstrates our commitment to achieving favorable outcomes. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, leveraging his deep understanding of prosecution tactics.
Contact Our Georgetown Felony DUI Defense Team
Our Arlington location serves Georgetown clients and is approximately 3 miles from DC Superior Court, accessible via I-395 and I-66. We are a trusted felony DUI lawyer near Georgetown and the DC Superior Court.
We serve all Georgetown neighborhoods, including those near Wisconsin Avenue, the C&O Canal, and the surrounding communities of Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, and Foggy Bottom.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
FAQs: Felony DUI Defense in Georgetown
Is a third DUI a felony in Washington, D.C.?
Yes. Under D.C. Code, a third DUI offense within a 15-year period is charged as a felony. It carries a mandatory minimum jail sentence, higher fines, and a multi-year license revocation. Consulting a third offense DUI charge lawyer Georgetown immediately is critical.
Who prosecutes felony DUI cases in DC?
Felony DUI cases in DC are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia (USAO-DC), not a local district attorney. All cases are heard at DC Superior Court.
What is the difference between DUI and OWI in DC?
DC law distinguishes between DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and OWI (Operating While Impaired). OWI is a lesser charge with lower penalties but can still be elevated to a felony under certain circumstances, such as causing injury.
Can I refuse a breath test in DC?
You can refuse, but DC’s implied consent law imposes an automatic 12-month license revocation for refusal, separate from any criminal DUI penalties. This administrative penalty is handled by the DC DMV.
How long does a felony DUI case take?
It depends. A felony DUI case in DC Superior Court can take from several months to over a year to resolve, depending on case complexity, evidence issues, and whether the case goes to trial.
For more information on related legal matters, see our pages on DC DUI Defense, Federal Criminal Defense in Washington, D.C., and Traffic Violation Defense in Washington, D.C..
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.