How Much Will I Pay in Fines for a Second DUI Offense?
Fines, driver license suspension, and jail time…anyone convicted of DUI may face these and other punishments. Drivers charged with multiple DUIs are subject to even harsher consequences, some of which hit their wallets. DUI is a crime associated with steep fines that increase with repeat offenses. Learn how much a second DUI might cost and … Read more
What if the Police Officer Lied on the Police Report?
Police officers make mistakes and sadly, some mistakes are intentional. We have only to look at the January 2014 DUI arrest of Justin Bieber. The arresting officer claimed to smell alcohol on Bieber’s breath and said that Bieber appeared to be impaired. To support this, law enforcement officials told the media that Bieber had a … Read more
What If This is My First DUI Offense?
For a first time DUI offender, being arrested can be very traumatic, and rightfully so. You have no idea what is about to happen and for many people, this is their first time through police processing. Being arrested, charged, and spending a night or two in jail for the first time is enough to sober … Read more
What Happens if You Refuse to Take a Field Sobriety Test?
Being pulled over for suspected driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a stressful situation. Many drivers panic when in this position for the first time. Since they have little or no knowledge of relevant laws, they may go along with whatever the law enforcement officer asks. However, some know their … Read more
What Are My Rights During a DUI Checkpoint?
It is now common practice across the country for law enforcement to have DUI checkpoints during expected “drinking” holidays. Occasions such as St. Patrick’s Day, New Year’s Eve, Memorial Day Weekend, July 4 Weekend, and Labor Day Weekend are prime examples of when you will see a significant amount of DUI checkpoints. So, if you … Read more
How a DUI Can Cause Depression
DUI affects the pocketbook and can affect employment. However, the most severe consequence of a DUI conviction may be unseen. Being convicted of driving under the influence can be emotionally draining and over the long-term, could result in depression. Whether the driver injured or killed another individual or is simply in denial or shock that … Read more
Staying Positive After a DUI Will Prevent Further Personal Consequences
Driving under the influence of alcohol is a crime, so it is natural for someone charged with DUI to feel like a criminal. This can make it difficult to look at life in a positive manner, which can lead to severe emotional problems and can destroy personal relationships. Avoiding the tendency to assume a negative … Read more
What is the Best Way to Get Help After a DUI?
After being arrested for driving under the influence, or DUI, feeling ashamed and alone is a common reaction. Many people do not want to tell their friends and coworkers that they have been charged with DUI due to the stigma it carries. Some experience feelings of despair and hopelessness due to potential suspension of the … Read more
Is the Ignition Interlock Device Mandatory if Arrested for DUI?
An ignition interlock device, or IID, is a mechanism installed in the dashboard of a motor vehicle. Designed for use by individuals convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), an IID measures breath-alcohol concentration and determines whether it exceeds a preprogrammed blood-alcohol concentration. If the measurement is over the threshold, the IID prevents the vehicle … Read more
How Can a DUI Attorney Show My Rights Were Violated?
If your rights were not read to you, or there is some question as to the integrity of the reading, is there a way for your attorney to get you out from under a DUI charge? Having the entire case immediately thrown out may not be possible, but a good attorney may be able to … Read more
Getting a DUI While Taking Xanax or Other Prescription Drugs
Prescription drugs may have side effects, which should be clearly displayed on their containers and accompanying fact sheets. Unfortunately, many patients ignore this information and even those who are attentive can find themselves in uncomfortable situations. While most DUI charges involve alcohol or illegal drugs, some stem from use of prescription drugs that impair driving … Read more
How Can I Keep My License Just for Work after a DUI Charge?
Being charged with DUI puts the driver license at risk of suspension. Either the state department of motor vehicles or the court can suspend the license for a lengthy period of time. DUI laws in many states permit 90-day suspension periods, one year for a second offense, and as long as three years for a … Read more
Did the Arresting Officer Force You to do Field Sobriety Tests?
As soon as a driver sees the flashing lights on the police car, worry sets in. By the time the officer approaches the car, the driver is panic-stricken. Everything after that tends to be a blur. Events that transpire between a DUI stop and arrest are extremely important so drivers should keep their wits about … Read more
Will My Job Find Out About My DUI?
If you have been arrested, charged, and convicted of a DUI, it is understandable that you may be concerned about your job. Depending upon the type of job and/or the company’s policies, being arrested could result in immediate dismissal. So, the question is, will your boss find out if you are arrested for a DUI? … Read more
How Much Is a DUI Attorney Going to Cost?
One thing is for sure, if you have been arrested for a DUI, you are more than likely facing some stiff fines and penalties. In addition to these costs, you will also have to pay attorney fees and possibly for the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device. While your fines and fees for the device … Read more
What If I am Disabled and Forced to Take the Field Sobriety Test?
After pulling a driver over for suspected DUI, a law enforcement official often administers several field sobriety tests, three of which are standard per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. These tests intend to create probable cause for a DUI arrest and serve as evidence during prosecution. Results can be damning for anyone, particularly a … Read more
How to Protect Your Rights During a DUI Stop
It is probably safe to assume that most people do not intentionally get behind the wheel while intoxicated. They have a drink or two after work and think they are fine to head home. Or, maybe they have more than a few but think their body weight or history of drinking enables them to handle … Read more
Do You Have to Take a Field Sobriety Test?
When drivers are pulled over for suspected DUI, they may be subjected to field sobriety tests. A vehicle stop can be unnerving so drivers do not always think clearly regardless of whether they have consumed any alcohol. Many drivers go along with field sobriety testing because they believe it is mandatory. This is not true, … Read more
Can I Go To Jail for a First Time DUI Offense?
A DUI conviction carries several penalties including fines and temporary driver license suspension. In certain situations, an initial DUI conviction can result in jail time. Jail is usually the last place anyone wants to end up, so understand the consequences of DUI before getting behind the wheel. If charged with driving under the influence, learn … Read more