Check frequently asked questions about DUI Lawyer Criminal Defense Attorney
Voting Question: Can you fight a DUI in RI and win?
I just got a dui in ri and I was wondering if anyone has or knows a good lawyer that won the case for them????
9 May 2008, 9:32 pm | click here for answers
Voting Question: Need child custody info in Riverside county law.?
First Of every- I was told by several people ex wife is still smoking speed, she has 3 bench warrants. One for DUI and possesion of controlled substance. One for contributing alcohol to minors, one for shoplifting and another for check fraud. I believe she is providing an unstable home bounery from boyfriend to boyfriend, currently ex wife , son, and daughter sharing room at biker home where drugs are used. 17 year old daughter recieved tattoo from one of her ex boyfriends while ex wife was gift. And she's driving with spended license. Plus she has kept my kids from seeing me for two years, and has done so before for 1year periods two differnet times. I work difficult never done speed, I smoked marijana on weekends but stoped 1month so far. Cause I've been having son with me for weekends. I only have seat belt ticket on my reord. How is the courts going to look at every this info? weed vs. speed. Do i need lawyer or go to facilatator. What's the first step i should take to start action
9 May 2008, 4:39 am | click here for answers
Resolved Question: Bad Lawyer, any ideas or suggestions?
My son-in-law got as DUI back in early March of this year. It's his first ever and was just a little over the legal limit. He hired a lawyer to defend him in court and the guy wanted $300 up front money and $300 after court. I went with him today and his scum-bag lawyer never showed up. He tried calling him for the past 3 days with no response. We waited for an hour and a half and he had to appear before the judge and tell the court his lawyer never showed up...they gave him another date to find a new lawyer. I am so anger at this lawyer...should we file a complaint against him with the Ohio Bar association. any thoughts or help
8 May 2008, 9:34 pm | click here for answers
Resolved Question: Can DUI offenses get dropped if the officer doesn't show up to court?
On a DUI if the officer doesn't show up to the trial, can there be a possibility the case be dropped/dismissed??? This isn't for me, for a pal. I know in my state if the officer doesn't show up on traffic offenses, case is dismissed. I had a wreckless driving ticket, officer did not show up to court, and I got it dismissed. Isn't it the same for DUI's? I heard some where that can be. His lawyer is trying to negotiate with the officer to do so because the officer did something unlawful that he can risk loosing his badge which there is proved evidence for by witnesses.
8 May 2008, 5:00 pm | click here for answers
Resolved Question: If summons once for court & the case is continued do u still have 2 go??
I was in a DUI incident last year with one of my friends.At first my pal wasn't going 2 be arrested however she returned to the car 2 lock the windows up & was arrested for a DUI.In the state of illinois so long as the keys are in the ignition it's a DUI weather you are driving or not.This whole thing has been going on for almost a year now & i just want it to be over already.A couple of months ago we were suppose to have the trial but the states attorney wasn't ready so it was delayed until this month.Im curious to know if the summons that was issued the first time is still in effect?I don't mean to sound like a bad pal or anything but there are alot of things about that night that if i told the truth would receive my pal in more trouble than she's already in.I just want to know if your summons by a lawyer & the case is continued do you still have to show up if your not summons again?It would be better for my pal if i didn't.Some things are better left unsaid.
8 May 2008, 3:08 am | click here for answers
Resolved Question: If you're arrested for DUI but the license suspension is subsequently eliminated in ct, is insurance affected
A formal hearing was held on the license suspension and my lawyer won, eliminating the license suspension. I've also avoided criminal convictions and the associated suspension. Will my insurance still be affected?
8 May 2008, 2:19 pm | click here for answers
Resolved Question: funny joke?
also a smart strategy you can use if u ever find yourself in this situation.... one day a lawyer was driving down the road in his mercedes when a farmer driving a tractor crashed into him, but luckily no one got hurt, unluckily, the mercedes was damaged. so the lawyer called the police to settle this Lawyer: you're going to have to pay me thousands of dollars since its your fault Farmer: I know I know i feel terrible Lawyer: good Farmer: tell you what i have a bottle of wine in my trunk, have a drink my treat Lawyer: ok ok sure so the laywer had his good long drink soon the police came and asked about what happens Laywer: its every his fault, he crashed into ME Police: WE'll be the judge of that the lawyer realized his fatal mistake as the police took out the DUI testing stuff... aw arrive on its funny
8 Apr 2008, 10:29 am | click here for answers
Resolved Question: Have any of you lawyers/law students out there ever gotten a DUI?
How did it affect job possibilities?
7 May 2008, 11:56 am | click here for answers
Resolved Question: Do I need an accident lawyer?
It was my birthday and we were headed out to dinner. My partner and I were stopped at a red light when a drunk driver clip through several lanes of traffic and hit us head on. My truck was thrown back into the car behind us. The offending driver threw the engine in reverse and tried to leave but she was hooked to my truck. I jumped out to receive her dish number but she couldn't go anywhere. Then she left on foot, but was eventually found and cited for DUI, hit and run, and colision. My partner and I were taken by ambulance to the nearest hospital to be checked out as she was having chest pain and we were both having neck and back pain. We have been going to the chiropractor since then. (This happened 4/2/8). I contacted my insurance company the next day and everything is pending. I am a disabled veteran and I receive every my medical done at the VA so I have no private insurance. When I contacted to VA about the accident I was told they wouldn't pay because I was not seen at a VA. The drunk driver did not possess the car she was driving. My partner was driving (and covered by my insurance to steer) and I was passenger.
7 Apr 2008, 2:47 pm | click here for answers
Voting Question: What kind of lawyer do i need?
In 2005 I was charged with DUI 2nd offense (misdemeanor) in Wisconsin. I was planning on moving to Ohio, so i just moved and never showed up for court. I know it was stupid and immature. Now, I am working as a temp for a great job i adore. The company offered me a position permanently, but they found out i have a warrant during background check. I told them that my lawyer said i didn't need to go to court and i had no idea. They said they didn't think this would prevent them from hiring me, but i have to take care of this issue. What can i do? i don't want to go back there and go to jail. anyone have any advice or a good lawyer i can contact? I think right now i really just need a letter saying i am working taking care of this.
5 May 2008, 11:37 am | click here for answers
Resolved Question: Will a recent DUI impact my job offer?
A pal's going away party involved a hotel room, (don't want anyone to drink and steer.) I decided to grab a CD from my car, and discovered that it was in my CD player. Of course, the car needs power to eject a CD, so the keys had to be inserted. Long story short: with keys in the ignition, with just over the .08 legal limit, an upstanding peace officer decided to charge me with DUI, intent to steer is just as good as driving in California, apparently. After the requisite "hokey-pokey" agility demonstration, I was sent to jail and pled no-contest below advice from my lawyer. Will this conviction (about 5 months ago) affect my offer of employment? I recently interviewed and obtained a new job in Orange County, CA. This is contingent on a 'brief background check.' I did a self background check, and the conviction is not on the report. I am an upstanding citizen, I don't even have a speeding ticket, (other than the DUI of course.) Will this ruin my prospects? Thanks in advance! By the way, this job does not require me to steer for the company, utilitze a company car, etc.
5 May 2008, 10:55 pm | click here for answers
Voting Question: can a judge take a drivers license from a person who never had one when he was cought for dui as a minor?
my son was on a atv on a back road,pulled over by a red neck cop,he just turned 17 and had no license,the cop never took him to jail, never done a drug test,charged him with no tags,no insurance,no blinkers,no seat belts,no windshield wipers,mind you this was a atv,also rechless driveing. he had a man pulled over who had been shooting up,my minor son had to witness this,this was not a road block,he never had his lights on the car going,almost two years went by,and one month after my son did receive his drivers license,we recieved a notice in the mail for him to show up in court and on his 19th birthday ,the judge ordered him to hand his license over! after paying a backwoods lawyer 500 dollars, they droped every the bogus charges except for the dui,now i will have to pay another 250 dollars for dui classes,i know this was a bunch of bull crap and want to know if anyone has any advice or been through something simmilar? there could not be a more corupt court than the one where we live!
5 Apr 2008, 4:51 pm | click here for answers
Resolved Question: DUI. Any suggestions?
Does anyone know a good DUI lawyer in San Diego?
4 May 2008, 9:39 pm | click here for answers
Resolved Question: Does my attorney need to be at my arraignment??
I got a arrested for a DUI this weekend. This is the first time i have been in ANY nice of trouble and i'm not exactly sure what to do. I spoke with a lawyer today who i am planning on using for my trial, but i won't have the money to hire him to be at my arraignment because it is in five days from now. So my question is, do i HAVE to have a lawyer gift at the arraignment? Would it be foolish for me to go to the arraignment without a lawyer?
30 Apr 2008, 3:21 pm | click here for answers
Resolved Question: My ex-husband won't let me see my kids or speak with them?
I don't do drugs not abusive, my ex got mad that I will not sign his paranting plan until I talk with a lawyer. I set up a mediator time with both of him and called him multiple times bc he would not let me know if the time worked he put a protection order on me. I put one on him for abuse. We go to court tomorrow. Will it make him look bad for not letting the kids talk or look me. Do I have any chance of have primary custody of my kids. I left them with him so I could receive my life in order. I am currently a nursing student and doing great! Also he wont take my daughter in for a medical test that the doctor advise she receive he feels it is uneccasary but it real important. Plus he lives with a girl that has two DUI's .
30 Apr 2008, 10:43 am | click here for answers
Voting Question: Does he really need a lawyer?
My fiance got a DUI the other nite. 1st offense BUT in his drunken stupor, thought if he could receive in the home BEFORE they got to him, he would be in the clear. He ended up being tazed on our porch. Now his charges are DUI, BAC of .158, resisting/fleeing a police officer, and driving left of middle. He's guilty (NO MEAN REMARKS PLEASE!!) Judge gave him a signature release and 2 weeks to find an attorney. Is an attorney REALLY necessary? It's his 1st offense, he's pleading guilty, probably gonna lose his license AND his job, and an attorney is an added expense we cannot afford. We live in Ohio (Russellville) if that matters. He was told that since he has a job, he doesn't qualify for a P.D. As for this being the first time at being caught...I know for a FACT that since he's been here in Ohio, this is the first time he DROVE rather than walked the 1/4 mile from that bar. I know what he did was wrong...believe me I am very mad, but right now anger ain't gonna help us. Thanks for every your advice. This is a very devastating thing :( On the plus side, he has decided drinking don't work for him.
3 May 2008, 8:11 am | click here for answers
Resolved Question: is this considered as perjury?
my pal got a DUI. shes underage n she did drink that night when she got pulled over. she hired a lawyer n she gave my number to him saying that im the one of the witnesses. she made me lie to her lawyer saying that she did not drink and every she drank was cough syrup which contains 10% of alcohol. i talked to the lawyer saying whatever my pal wanted me to say to him. my pal's court date is sometime this summer and im sooo scared to go to the court to testify for her. so i told her that i really dont feel comfortable doing this so i do not want to be involved in it anymore and she said that since i already talked to her lawyer i cannot screw this now because the lawyer recorded me when i was talking to him on the phone. and i said to her that i havnt done any paper works yet, and she said that it doesn't matter. if i tell her lawyer the truth, do i still receive in a trouble? what do i need to do now? im not an american citizen and im reallly scared to testify...
3 May 2008, 12:09 am | click here for answers
Voting Question: Does anyone know what the average cost of a good dui lawyer is in California?
29 Apr 2008, 9:15 pm | click here for answers
Resolved Question: Missed DUI Court Date, Warrant Issued - Illinois?
My husband was given a DUI on Jan 14th, as well as several other moving violations. He went to his first court date and was given a continuance bc we did not yet have an attorney. He was supposed to go back on March 24th. Well He told me he went and got another continuance, bc still no lawyer, Turns out he lied to me about that. So because he didn't show for the 2nd court date, a warrant was issued for his arrest. He now has court on April 30th. We do not have any money for a lawyer, and I'm afraid if he shows up he will be thrown in jail. What will happen, does anyone know? Any advice? Thank you Brooke for you ignorant comment about my husband...... You must be single Also, This is his 1st DUI. He rec'd Moving violations for improper lane change and failing to use a turn signal
28 Apr 2008, 9:57 am | click here for answers
Resolved Question: 22 year old son recieved his first DUI now what?
My son who blew 1.9 received a DUI in Illinois. He is having his hearing next week. I know it might be best for a lawyer to represent him, but he doesn't have the money to afford one. I don't either. So he is going to represent himself. What are the odds of him recieving a lighter sentence and possibly getting court supervision? What should he know to represent himself in the best possible manner. I realize that he should pay for being so foolish, and that no one should receive behind the wheel intoxicated. He unfortunately turned to drinking while going through a very difficult time. He is not the only one that is paying however. His whole family is going through a tremendous amount due to his foolishness. So if anyone has any good advise we could sure use it. He also is considering going into the military, which in my opinion would be good for him. But now after receiving the DUI, I don't know if he can be let in for a long time to arrive. Thanks for any good advice you can give :)
28 Apr 2008, 5:22 pm | click here for answers
Resolved Question: 3rd DUI (2nd in 2 yrs).. Plus Hit and Run?
What is the name of your state? CA Charge 1: 20002(a) hit and run misdemeanor. Charge 2: California Vehicle Code [CVC] section 23152(a) Coming to congestion in a left hand turn lane at a cease light, tapped the car in front of me at 2 MPH. (other driver says 5 MPH). Driver said that he wanted to tug over, but I kept going. I kept driving and minding about my possess business, thinking nothing of the event. Apparently the guy called in the dish. Police car pulls over at home. Questioned. Cuffed and booked outside my home for suspicion of DUI AND Hit and Run. Police report says no FST conducted, although there were, and perhaps the reason for custody and detainment. BAC reportedly refused, while 'officer induced confusion' transpired. I am 30 years old trying to establish a career. I am a failed entrepreneur who still lives at the home he was brought up in. I still have a nagging background check that is from 8 years ago. It is haunting; you always feel shameful sending resumes or even trying to make business connections to potential employers. Feels like someone is always looking over your back. I thought my alcohol issues were over, and they were for some time. (About 6 years) After 2 years of counseling and being on antidepressant medication, I stopped going because it was too costly. Commuted to college from home (17 mile commute) and had a prior at age 19 and 22. I was very boisterous in college and have calmed down since. This would be the 2nd DUI within 10 years. The damage was minor. I was not wearing glasses on at the time, and didn’t look any damage to the other vehicle. As I got the police photo, I saw the indentation of the license dish screw into the back bumper of the car. Upon obtaining Police Report, immediately sent apology-letter to the man who called in. I provided Insurance/information/etc. I am absolutely going to plea not guilty to the H&R, because I reasonably didn't look damage to vehicle. Defense: "mistake of fact" and also I was not wearing my eye glasses that I wear 99.9% of the time. Requesting Dry Reckless in lieu of DUI. Reasonable doubt as to being intoxicated. I believe that not having on my glasses was the main reason for the nudging of the car in front of me. I am nearsighted and almost ALWAYS wear my glasses. This must have been the first time in 5 years that I did not have my glasses with me. They were found 3 days later in my backyard. I’ve never been in accident in lifetime (14 years of driving). Currently trying to expunge record for past (10years) but I have yet to make the final touches to the documents before sending them in. While I still believe that the State has to prove beyond every reasonable doubt that I was intoxicated, I would be willing to plea to a non-DUI charge. There are some issues with untrue information that could be on the police report (a video could prove that, but also there is evidence that would work against me if video was introduced). A FST was conducted and failed, the one-legged stand on a hill with no shoes on (right in front of my home). It is believed that after this FST failure, that detainment happened right after, yet it is not noted on the police report. Also there were some issues with the interrogation procedure by police, with methods that are not constitutional but would be difficult to prove, unless there was a whole Internal Affair Investigation conducted. So the prosecution should have 1) officer testimony and observation of "objective symptoms" 2) no FSTs marked or claimed 3) no BAC level 4) no comment about driving. They did claim that the car I drove "backed" into the patrol car's steel enforced front plow fender. (A MVS video would clear that up if it is true or not.) I feel that getting a DUI at such a young age a long time ago really had some major sick social and economic consequences. I gradually conditioned myself to be less and less social or outgoing over the years. Until recently I would use my car just to go to bookstores or libraries, rarely even driving at every. I have been pretty much a social recluse that spends most of his time on the internet, doing reading, researching etc. Now every of these are apparently not going to even be available if I am suspended for driving for 2 years. I am a failed entrepreneur, who now needs to look toward the other established public or private sector for a career. None of these potential careers or jobs will look a recent DUI as a positive. Even the stuff 10 years ago, still HAUNTS me to this very day- I’ve been paying the penalty on those things socially, economically, mentally, financially, physically, etc. They will never go away. At this point, this is every I am focusing on right now are these charges. I have been working on my defense for about a month now, and have over 105 pages of a WORD document that includes my perception, reasonable doubt, mitigating factors, inaccuracies, explanations, laws, DMV proceedings, objections, lawyers that I contacted, costs, motions, attorney website snippets that pertain to case I have also visited the department and the courthouse of the court I will be arraigned in on multiple occasions. I have taken notes on other plea bargains and proceedings, the characters: the judge, deputy D.A., city prosecutor, P.D., prominent lawyers whom are familiar from internet and solicitation material sent to immediately after. Wondering if getting some "face time" and experience with the proceedings could be beneficial. The day-to-day activity in the court room is an interesting little microcosm. I have attended a few AA meetings, in hopes that I can somehow use it as leverage that I realize any mistake that I may have done in the past and want to move forward. I also attend online meetings via the internet. My main objective is to achieve gainful employment and become a productive citizen and rejoin society. I have gained 2 part-time jobs since the incident, one a weekend job that has to do with catering private parties, and another part time job with my pal's internet company that requires me to send e-mails and make phone calls to various publishing suppliers. Innocent until proven guilty. Would like any insights or advice if possible. Wondering what the best possible strategy would be, considering the arraignment date is approaching. My initial plan is to bring with me every of the 105+ pages of documentation and explanation of the events as I look them, and possible resolutions to this situation. I would not hand over every of my writings, as some may be not relevant or needed, but I would show that I am serious to put this event past me. When talking to the Deputy DA (I have already seen her in action while doing some research at the court room) or P.D. , I plan to tell her my situation, a brief history, my attempt to contact the other party in the 20002(a) and letter, and maybe even some of the points or reasons as to the reasonable doubt or evidence that the state has for these charges. My initial stance would be that I have a tall order to ask, and that I wish that the state can drop every criminal charges. I will explain to her that the police report may look bad, and the factors that there is a prior, there is an alleged refusal, and there is minor damage to another car, but these variables do have reasonable explanations, and my willingness to put this incident behind me and produce a net positive result for myself as an individual as well as a net positive for society, the people, and the state. In other matters, from the research I have done on the DMV hearing, which will take place prior to the criminal arraignment, I wish to prove that the alleged refusal was untrue, there was officer induced confusion, inadequate admonition by the transporting officers (different from arresting officer), and that I have prepared the proper objections so that they can appear in the transcript and not waived automatically. I will also provide the list of 15 lawyers and legal firms that I have talked to, which sent soliciting information after my arrest, their fees, and their comments. Each one willing to represent me or battle the charge, if I decided to pay for their services for retainer (which I do not have the capital to spend currently). Using that information, mention of lawyers that the specific DMV officer that has dealt with a specific lawyer I have contacted, and the possible threat of obtaining a "writ" if the suspension is not "set aside." In that case, the DMV attorney in Sacramento would be contacted and as far as I know, legal fees that I do happen to spend would be reimbursed if it is found that eventually the writ could be obtained and accepted. Hopefully this could be some reason for the DMV hearing administrator to act in my interest and "set aside" the suspension. I am also curious to look if the actual arresting officer shows up to the DMV, as my initial thoughts would be that he would be too busy or not even subpoenaed in the first place. This may be a bad presumption though. As far as trying to go to a jury trial, I do believe that this is a possible pathway. Depending on what is on the police videos, or if they even can produce video footage of the cease, detainment, interrogation, I feel that I may have a reasonable defense and I do feel that I could convince at least 1 juror out of 12 to believe that there is reasonable doubt as to the charges. I would actually feel somewhat comfortable taking the stand and attempting to explain the circumstances. This may be a "risky" proposition though, because it is possible that, if found guilty, the sentence could be pushed further upwards rather than just the minimum. However, seeing that this is my future livelihood at stake and that I do have time to invest in an optimal outcome, it may be a path to take. I also will claim that I have a grievance with the priors, to which I plead "no contest" in both events as I was young, scared, and just wanted to receive past it. I do not think I was given the best advice, nor optimal outcomes in either situation, and may have some constitutional grounds to appeal or have them stricken from the record. Thank you in advance.
27 Apr 2008, 11:36 pm | click here for answers
Voting Question: I just got a dui ticket. i've scheduled an admini hearing from DMV. Do I need a lawyer?
26 Apr 2008, 5:15 am | click here for answers
Voting Question: Does any one know???
Does anyone know when you have a class A commercial license & you use it as your bread & butter, but you just got a DUI for the first time ever. Do you need a seperate type of an attorney to help u remove it off your driving record. Can they actually remove it of your driving record so that I can go back to work. What I did was a mistake & I'm paying the consequences, but now I need a lawyer that can help me receive my Class A back, so I can return to work.???????
24 Apr 2008, 10:55 am | click here for answers
Open Question: whats the worst case if within a mth u got a DUI and a OUI?
1mth ago i was driving below the influence of a control substance, for which they were prescribed to me, in New Hampshire. This case is still pending, although I was given my license back. This past weekend, I was pulled over and arrested for an OUIL (that's what it said on the paperwork), in MA. First of every, what is an OUIL? Second, how will this second one affect my first one, and vice versa? Will there be jail time and or fines? If so how much time and how much will the fines be? Will they work with me if my income is not that much? I make good money, $43.00/hr, but the problem that I face is the 1st lawyer's fees - $3,900. Should I receive a public defender for the second offense? Will that be the best representation I can receive, instead of another laywer which could be around the same cost as my first?
22 Apr 2008, 8:01 pm | click here for answers
Resolved Question: DUI Trial Question. No rude questions.?
Hello, back in 2006 my fiance got arrested for a DUI. He has had continuences with his trial up until today. He was scheduled to appear at the courthouse today at 9:30 to look if it was being continued again or if it would go to trial. He called me at 11ish and said that he was going to trial today at about 1:30. I called his lawyer's office a few minutes ago and the assistant said the lawyer was still in court and would be back in about an hour. Does anyone know how long a trial for a DUI lasts hour wise and would we be finding out if he gets convicted today? If he went to trial at 1:30 today, it's almost 4:30 so why is it taking so long for him to receive back? I know that since he was expecting a continuance today, it probably took longer for the arresting officer to be notified and arrive and every that. Does anyone have an ideas as to why this trial is taking forever? I am really nervous and need to calm down. We're in IL too if this helps. Western Suburbs.
22 Apr 2008, 4:20 pm | click here for answers
Voting Question: what is gonna happen to me??
nine years ago i was in a car accident. i had to go to the hospital, knocked un concious... the police officer sited me with failure to gift DL. and insurance and that was not the case. Didnt know anything about it and have even renewed my DL since then. Two years ago I was sited for tinted windows. I mail the courts a check and thought it was a done deal. Last wk. i was pulled and sited for DUI, refused the breathilizer and spent the night in jail. I found out there was a warrant against me that was 9 years old. What is gonna happen to me?? I live the state of KY. Someone please give me some legal advice. Im gonna receive a lawyer but what is gonna happen?
22 Apr 2008, 12:19 pm | click here for answers
Resolved Question: is a lawyer really needed in dui cases?
21 Apr 2008, 8:48 pm | click here for answers
Open Question: refused breath test in MD?
has anyone in MD ever refused to submit to the breath test? if so what happened? Please talk only from experience and not from MD laws. 1st DUI, wrecked my car, nobody else or other cars were involved. was taken to the hospital, not jail. I have a lawyer, I'd just like to hear from someone who this has happened to...
21 Apr 2008, 2:48 pm | click here for answers
Resolved Question: Can you represent someone in court if you aren't a lawyer?
My pal recently got charged with DUI, careless driving, possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, leaving the scene of an accident, and criminal negligence. I was prelaw in college before I quit (got a good job why stay?) and so my pal wants me to represent him cause he doesn't want a public pretender. I'm really smart and I know I can handle it. The only problem is I'm not sure if I can represent him without being admitted to the bar. I'm not going to charge him anything, so would it matter cause I'm not making myself out to be a lawyer? I'll probably do it anyway. I mean its not like they ask for your bar association membership every time you show at court right? I'm thinking I'm going to take this thing to trial. I did mock trial in high school so I've got some experience. Anyway, any advice or possible legal strategies would be welcome. Thanks!!!!!
20 Apr 2008, 12:27 am | click here for answers
Voting Question: My uncles in trouble now what?
Ok my uncle has been trying to pay his child support but since years ago the state had to pay it because of circumstances they are really coming after him. Because of this hes been in and out of court most his life. Also he can't seem to receive the 4000$ he needs for a lawyer to represent him in court. Anyways he needs to receive a job without them tracing back to his SS# because he wants to beat the charges in court. Anyways he is a very good man from what I've seen about him. When he was working he would pay every month on his child support but one month his car broke down and now they want to put him in jail for 2+ months minimum and still want him to pay. He also has warrants for DUI because he had a vodka bottle in the back seat(which had been opened earlier that day). Anyways any advice/tips would be appreciated. He wants to do the right thing but if he gets in jail before he gets the money he'll probably lose the trial. Anyways thanks in advance.....
19 Apr 2008, 8:31 pm | click here for answers
Voting Question: California Wet Reckless VS. DUI charge?
I was arrested for a DUI by the CHP. I feel it was a very shadey situation. I believe my rights were violated. I had had 3 drinks in 3 hours. (I am a lady 115 pounds). Wasn't drunk. I hired a lawyer to battle the entire thing. 8 months later with continuance after continuance, this is where the situation is. The prosecution refused to negotiate anything. We set it for trial hoping they'd look I won't back down. Less than a week before, we got word their "star witness" (the arresting officer) would not be in town, therefore unable to attend trial. After much back and forth they decided to offer me a "Wet Reckless."The research I have done states that a "WR" is just as bad and carries the same penalties as a DUI. I have moved and become a resident of another state. I served my Liscence suspension, and now have a valid liscence in my new state. Will I serve jail time? Will my fines be upwards of $1000? Am I considered a criminal? Can I plea down further to a civil infraction?
19 Apr 2008, 12:39 pm | click here for answers
Open Question: Wet Reckless VS. DUI Convictions in California?
I was arrested for a DUI by the CHP. I feel it was a very shadey situation. I believe my rights were violated. I had had 3 drinks in 3 hours. (I am a lady 115 pounds). Wasn't drunk. I hired a lawyer to battle the entire thing. 8 months later with continuance after continuance, this is where the situation is. The prosecution refused to negotiate anything. We set it for trial hoping they'd look I won't back down. Less than a week before, we got word their "star witness" (the arresting officer) would not be in town, therefore unable to attend trial. After much back and forth they decided to offer me a "Wet Reckless."The research I have done states that a "WR" is just as bad and carries the same penalties as a DUI. I have moved and become a resident of another state. I served my Liscence suspension, and now have a valid liscence in my new state. Will I serve jail time? Will my fines be upwards of $1000? Am I considered a criminal? Can I plea down further to a civil infraction?
19 Apr 2008, 12:35 pm | click here for answers
Resolved Question: When you get a DUI, is your license suspended immediately?
My pal got one a week ago, and the cops told him his lecense was suspended. I told him I thought that was crap - considering he has only been charged, and has yet to be convicted or sentenced. He doesn't talk to his lawyer til next week. This is in Georgia, if that matters. That's what I told him. I remember when I was in highschool, everyone who got a DUI used their ticket as proof of license until they went to court. He said his court date wasn't until like June or July! I could look them suspending it temporarily if his date was within a couple of weeks, but not a couple of months!
18 Apr 2008, 9:22 am | click here for answers
Resolved Question: got caught driving under DUI suspension...?
My license has been suspended for 6 years from 4 underages and a DUI I got every while or before I was 18 yrs old. Im 24 now and just got pulled over for speeding today. I knew my license was suspended but wasn't aware of which suspension I'm currently on. I told the officer immediately my license was suspended. Turns out its the DUI suspension. He tells me if found guilty I could do up to 90 days in jail (I live in PA), and that I should talk to a lawyer, maybe even plead not guilty. He then tells me in exact words -"I won't have a problem if you plead not guilty." Just what the hell did he mean by that? Anyhow, he issued me a citation for speeding and another for driving below DUI suspension. He then allowed me to steer the car home...on DUI suspension. How can him issuing me a citation for driving below DUI suspension justify him allowing me to continue driving on it? Makes no sense. Is the 90 day jail time mandatory, or do I have a snowball's chance in hell of not going to jail? this goes along with the 2nd person who answered my question - yeah tell me about it. I was actually supposed to be able to have my driver's license restored THIS coming november. I can handle any suspensions they might toss at me, heck I haven't had a license for 6 years I can handle another year or whatever, I just do not want to do jail time. But yes, I am in the process of speaking with lawyers. Had one on the phone this morning but something came up and she'll have to call me back in like an hour. wish they can work something out I'm willing to do anything except jail time
18 Apr 2008, 9:16 am | click here for answers
Resolved Question: Is DUI Lawyers covered by LEGAL aid if so does anyone know one in Toronto.?
I just wanted to note it's not for me.
18 Apr 2008, 7:12 pm | click here for answers
Open Question: 1st Offense DUI (la County) BAC .10- misdemeanor, good record- what do i have to look forward to?
I got my 1st & last DUI the other night. I just had dropped my pal off after leaving the bar, and had gotten something to eat, and was heading home. I came to a red light so I stopped behind the car in front of me. Next thing i knew the police were behind me telling me to tug over, so I did. He said I was tailgating.. .Then he proceeded to ask me if I had anything to drink. I didnt feel the need to lie, I felt fine, alert, satisfied, I just ate. I said yes. (i had had 2 drinks in the span of 3 hours, i am 5'3" 115lbs). SO then they had me do a field test. I passed no problem. I answered every there questions, no attitude.. just complied. THen they had me do the breathalizer.I never saw it, but they said it was.10.. SO, that was it.. scared out of my mind, in disbelief, i was cuffed and then shortly booked. My question is.. what do i face? is it possible to receive a restricted license since i work nights? Community service? I have 0 points now. Do i need a lawyer? Help. Thank U.
15 May 2008, 12:49 am | click here for answers
Voting Question: I got a dui 4 my 1st time, have nothing on my record should I hire a lawyer? also If I dont how should i plee?
Hi I live in Portland, Ore. and got pulled over for a DUI I got arressted and was very coporative with the officer. I know he gave my a good report. I did blow a .25 but did pass every the tests except walking. I am wondering since I have NOTHING on my record if I should hire a lawyer. Also If I do not hire a lawyer how should I plea? I know I made a mistake and am really stressed out and upset with myself. I have had friends that have gotten Duii's and half say receive a lawyer ahd the other half say do not spend the money. ANY help would be wonderful! Thank you for your time.................
15 Apr 2008, 2:51 pm | click here for answers
Resolved Question: got a dui in oct 2001 and did diversion class just got arrested for one 4-9-008 is a lawyer better than a publ
is it better to receive a lawyer or public defender ok?
15 Apr 2008, 1:44 pm | click here for answers
Resolved Question: Can I still get my CNA liscence with an undisposed DUI charge?
Here's my story; I just completed a CNA program and passed the tests from the state of Florida, so I was expecting my liscence in the mail. What I got was a letter from the Department of Health stating that they needed some more info from my background check. Back in 2005 I was arrested for DUI, but the case is still undisposed, due to my lawyer fighting the case because the breathalyzer machine has been proven faulty. What I am really asking is if I do every they work they are requesting, ie- 3-5 letters of recommendations, the dipositions of the charges on my background check, and a letter of what I've done since the arrest to improve my life; are they still going to deny me my liscence even though I have passed every the tests? And If they do deny me what should I do next? Write the governor, Charlie Crist?
14 Apr 2008, 7:06 am | click here for answers
Open Question: My friend got his 2nd DUI within 3 years. His job req's driving,would he be able to get a restricted license?
Is jail time mandatory or can it be waived if he is already getting after work treatment and is the only provider for his wife and two kids? (Please no negative judgement feedback) I would like to help his wife and kids as much as I can. His wife cannot work due to high cost babysitting fees and is waiting until they can be in public school. Also, if he cannot afford a lawyer, would a DA really help? The situation was unhappy too because he past his sobriety test when pulled over (he was pulled over originally because he didnt have a license dish on the front of his car) and they told him he didnt have to take the breathalizer, but they still made him take it. Is that against the law? He was out getting food for the kids, because the wife was caring for her sick baby and his alc. level was .11.
13 May 2008, 9:29 am | click here for answers
Open Question: First time DUI...does the punishment fit the crime?
Most or at least 99.9% hate drunk drivers and what they do...NO question here. My nephew just recieved a DUI after 12 years perfect driving record and here's what he got after have 2 drinks at a family wedding and was just over the limit. 1. $1500 fine, loss of licence for 6 Months 2. Loss of his truck driving job. He has a wife & 2 tiny kids (she doesn't work because of a handicapped child) They have missed their last 2 home payments and more than likely lose their home. They have applied for food stamps and other government asst. 3. $1800 for Lawyer...WHO by the way didn't even show up with him to court...but managed to keep the money he was given 4. 3 Days in Jail...while his wife & kids stayed at home. I wish the courts, Police, Jailors, MADD every feel like big hero's for stopping my nephew the criminal. How I wish every their Sh*t could be made public so we could hear how harsh they would be then have we gone to far?
13 May 2008, 10:54 am | click here for answers
Resolved Question: Question for lawyers or people who practices law?
What is a repeat offense? What classifies a repeat offense? If someone may be charged with grand theft, will having a DUI classify them as a repeat offender for grand theft? what are we looking at here?
13 Apr 2008, 12:04 am | click here for answers
Resolved Question: How will a reckless drivning charge affect my driving record?
24 y/o male charged with DUI, failure to maintain lane and speeding (95/70 I-85S in Lagrange, GA). Supposedly my lawyer will receive it reduced to reckless driving. How will this affect my insurance and future employment for jobs? I also have an out of state license.
13 Apr 2008, 10:51 am | click here for answers
Voting Question: dui, beating it?
hey, im 16 and i just got a dui. the situation is this. my pal was driving my car, he took a turn too quick because he was unfamiliar with the car, and we went thru a couple of yards and flipped over. me and one pal got out, and the one driving left. a guy came out of a home and talked to us, and about 30 seconds later a police officer came. i had been drinking, so i am guilty of underage, but not of DUI. i was so disorriented from the flip, it was ridiculous. i was sober enough to remember the situation tho. the cop asked whose car, not who was driving. i replied mine, he immediately cuffed and breathalized me. right after reaching my dad, he made me take the breathalizer at the precinct. my dad is a lawyer, and i had mentioned it several times and the cop should have been aware of it. i asked to talk to him and was not allowed. who can help me out? do i have the right to a lawyer if im below 18? my dad is a public defender who is unfamiliar with juvenile laws. thankyou. thankyou for the responses, my dad is a public defender, and hes had alot to deal with currently(our home burnt down and were having problems with insurance) so he hasnt rly helped me every too much. His time is limited and he hasnt had enough to look up every the juvenile laws about DUIs. I cant rat the kid out because he doesnt even live in GA. i think im jus gonna take the DUI and deal with it b/c from what i understand, no judge will believe me, and i have no right to a jury(i believe) so im screwed, innocent or guilty. and i already paid a guy for his mailbox. and not being familiar with the car is a bad excuse, but his only. he drives a truck, and i steer a tiny BMW that, for a 1995, drives pretty quick. I think we took the turn at about 40 mph, when the wheels skidded and the car hit a mailbox and from there we lost control.
13 Apr 2008, 10:28 pm | click here for answers
Open Question: Will a Reckless Driving With Supervision affect me getting an outside sales job?
Here is a little background story... I got pulled over about 3 1/2 years ago...very stupid (I know) for speeding, Improper Land Change and DUI. The cop took the breathalyzer test on the spot and I got a .086. When I got to the police station he nodded to me not to take the blood test and I took the hint and didn't. In par, I got my license suspended for six months. I went to court and my lawyer got it down to Misdemeanor reckless driving with supervision. I'm trying to receive an outside job in California or Illinois, how bad is this going to affect me getting a job when they run my background check. My insurance company has never said anything to me about this nor have they raised my insurance. I have not gotten a single ticket since this really stupid night and I have not gotten behind the wheel since this dumb mistake. I would really appreciate an honest answer. Thanks.
12 May 2008, 2:32 pm | click here for answers
Resolved Question: If your boyfriend received a $15,000 "hardship" gift from his Mom, would you expect him to share it with you?
My boyfriend called his Mom twice within a 6 month period & told her he was going through some "difficult times" & needed help. She sent him $10,000 the first time and yet even though we've been living together & engaged for well over a year he never shared any of it with me. He paid every of his fines and fees, lawyer's costs for a DUI & his $450 (including utilities) rent that he pays me every month and for living expenses. He lost his job and had to live off the money for a few months and it went quick. But I also gave him a job (a minimum wage job... but hey, beggars can't be chooser's, right?)... It was a job taking care of me and the state paid him - I'm disabled). Anyway, since my only income is SSI, I was nice of shocked that he never offered to pay any of my bills or anything. I mean, he knows how much I struggle too. I can nice understand his position with the 1st $ but now he's received another $15,000 and still says he can't share even though he found his possess full time job.
12 Apr 2008, 7:18 pm | click here for answers
Resolved Question: second DUI jail time?
Would it be necessary to hire a lawyer if we have a second DUI in california since we are gonna have to serve 3 months in jail anyways? I think its 3 month.. not sure...
12 Apr 2008, 5:54 am | click here for answers
Voting Question: I got a dui in new jesey what will happen?
I was arrested for driving nder the influence in the state of New Jersey. I blew a .177 on a breathalyzer. This is my first offense and i got tickets for reckless driving, underage dui regular dui and falure to maintan lanes. I have a very good lawyer but am wondering which charges i will most likely receive stuck with and what the penalties will be. also is there any way that they will just give me the rckless and not the dui. I already have points on my liscense and if I receive any more my liscense will be suspended anyway. So in effect reckless driving will suspend my liscense just as the dui would.
11 Apr 2008, 6:11 pm | click here for answers
Resolved Question: How much is a DUI lawyer in washington state?
Just curious how much they usually tend to ask for as a retainer fee (initial money down). This would be for the North Seattle area. Not this person's first DUI.
10 May 2008, 9:58 pm | click here for answers
Resolved Question: I stay Michigan and I got my 2nd DUI. What info does the 3-5 letters to the sec of state need include?
I really need my licence back. I have been riding a bike for a year now so I can't find a job more than a few miles from home. I would receive a lawyer but I don't have the money thanks to my coart fines. I am eligable to "try and receive my licence reinstated. but I can't find any up to date information on the web. even the state of michigan s web site is 3 years out of date. I know I need 3-5 letters I need to know what my sponser and others need to write in these letter (what they want to hear) I also don't know what else i am supposed to do for this meating someone told me I should receive 2 drug tests one on the day of my hearing date and one like a month before. I am getting a lot of different answers but I have no full Idea of what is needed. If anyone knows where to find a good list of instructions or knows how to handle this. I could use your help!
1 May 2008, 5:28 pm | click here for answers
