During the recent holiday season, North Carolina law enforcement officers were out in full force trying to track down drunk drivers. With more than 3,600 arrests for drunk driving, it appears they succeeded.

The month long campaign included 11,000 sobriety checkpoints. Last year, law enforcement officials arrested 3,800 drunk drivers.

In total, around 137,000 citations were issued between Dec. 3 and Jan. 2. In addition to the thousands of drunk driving arrests, more than 7,000 seat belt citations were issued, along with close to 40,000 speeding tickets.

Most people don't intend to drink and drive, but unfortunately, everyone who is caught driving drunk must face the consequences. As in other states across the country, DWI charges are serious in North Carolina. In most cases, individuals will lose driving privileges. In some cases, individuals can face time behind bars.

Those in North Carolina who are facing DWI charges may wish to consider working with a criminal defense attorney. An attorney can investigate every aspect of an individual's case to be sure their rights are being protected.

In addition, an attorney can help determine if law enforcement had probable cause to stop an individual's car, as well as determine if sobriety tests were properly administered. Most importantly, an attorney can mount an aggressive defense against the charges. In some cases, the charges may be reduced or dismissed completely.

Facing drunk driving charges can be frightening, but people don't have to do it alone. Working with an experienced attorney can help individuals get back to a normal life.

Source: WCTI, "3,600 Arrested for Drunk Driving During Holiday Enforcement," Jan. 6, 2012