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October 7, 2011

DUI Sobriety Checkpoints in California 10-7 to 10-9

Our Orange County DUI Defense Lawyers want you to be aware of the upcoming DUI sobriety checkpoints that are occurring all throughout California. While most are announced prior to their commencement, it is not uncommon for the checkpoint to randomly occur moments after it being publicized. To avoid being arrested during a checkpoint, please have a designated driver or hire a taxi prior to going out.

If you do happen to be arrested for driving under the influence during a DUI checkpoint, our Orange County DUI Attorneys are here to answer your questions, provide you with legal advice and represent you at both the DMV and criminal court hearings. Fill out our FREE OC DUI case evaluation form to have an attorney contact you directly or call us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 888-444-7210!

Friday, October 7

Escondido: all weekend - undisclosed location

Saturday, October 8

Redlands: 10pm-4am - northbound lanes of Orange St., south of Pearl Ave.

September 16, 2011

Weekend DUI Checkpoints - 9/16 to 9/18

Our Orange County DUI Law Firm wants you to be aware of all upcoming DUI sobriety checkpoints within California. We have compiled the list below of all current checkpoints so that you can make an informed decision before going out this weekend. Please have a designated driver or call a taxi if you plan on drinking as you could lose your license for a year and even have to serve potential jail time if you are arrested for a DUI.

Contact our Orange County DUI Defense Attorneys if you are arrested for driving under the influence. We will answer any questions you may have and inform you of what you could be facing as a DUI offender; call our Orange County DUI Lawyers today at 888-444-7210 or fill out our free Orange County DUI case evaluation form to have a dedicated lawyer contact you directly!

Friday 9/16

Buena Park: 7pm - 3am - Stanton Ave. & Beach Blvd.
Petaluma: 6pm-2am - undisclosed location
San Mateo: 6pm-2am - Fourth Ave.

Saturday 9/17

Modesto: 9:30pm - 3:30am - undisclosed location
Ventura: 8pm-3am - undisclosed location
Westminster: 9pm-2am - Westminster Blvd. & Edwards St.

September 9, 2011

California DUI Checkpoints - Sept. 9-12th

Our Orange County DUI Defense Attorneys understand how frustrating it can be to be arrested during a DUI Sobriety Checkpoint. Because of this, we have compiled all the announced checkpoints that are scheduled to occur all throughout California. While most checkpoints are announced prior to their commencement, many are kept secret until just hours before they are to start.

To stay safe, designated a safe driver or hire a taxi if you plan on going out this weekend. Contact our Orange County DUI Lawyers if you are arrested during a DUI sobriety checkpoint; we have the experience and knowledge to handle your case and will ensure that you receive the best possible representation available.

Friday 9/9

Fortuna: 9pm - early morning - 500 block of S. Fortuna Boulevard
Lynwood: 6pm-2am - undisclosed location
Modesto: 10pm-3am - city limits, undisclosed location
Pacifica: 7pm-1am - city limits, undisclosed location
Sacramento: 8pm - early morning - 5th Street & L Street
Ventura: 8pm-3am - undisclosed location

Saturday 9/10

Buellton: 5:30pm - 11:30pm - undisclosed location
Rancho San Diego: 7pm-1:30am - undisclosed location
Santee: 8pm - 3am - undisclosed location

Monday 9/12

Costa Mesa: 6pm-12am - undisclosed location

August 1, 2011

DUI Checkpoint Results in Arrest of Al Pacino's Daughter

Julie Pacino, the daughter of actor Al Pacino, was arrested after she drove through a DUI sobriety checkpoint.

The 21-year-old was driving in Manhattan when she went through a DUI checkpoint. According to the Newser, officers stopped her vehicle when they noticed that her eyes were watery and bloodshot, her speech was slurred and they could smell alcohols which are all signs of intoxication. Pacino then confessed to officers that she had had a few beers and smoked pot hours before getting into her vehicle and was then arrested for driving under the influence.

Our Orange County DUI Lawyers understand how frustrating it can be to go through a DUI checkpoint. If you find yourself arrested during a checkpoint, contact our OC DUI Attorneys as soon as possible to find out how we can help you!

July 6, 2011

Crash Results in DUI for NFL Player

Lorenzo Neal, a former NFL and Fresno State football player, has been arrested for drunk driving in Fresno.

The accident occurred around 4:30pm Monday afternoon in Fresno when Neal's Ford F-150 truck went off the side of the road and crashed into a pole. Officers determined that Neal's blood alcohol level was above the legal limit however after he was arrested for driving under the influence, he was cited and released to a friend at the scene. Neal later denied that he was arrested but did confirm and acknowledge that an incident had occurred.

According to the Fresno Bee, Neal is listed as the chief information officer for a company called Safe Ride Solutions. The company offers confidential rides for intoxicated driver and Neal has been quoted saying that he feels drinking and driving is a major problem and affects people from all walks of life and segments of society.

Contact our Orange County DUI Attorneys if you have been arrested for drunk driving in the OC. Our OC DUI Law Firm will go over the details of your case, provide you with legal advice and answer any questions hat you may have.

June 29, 2011

Fatal DUI Crash Sends 22 Year Old To Prisons

Justin Speed, 22, was arrested and charged for causing a driving under the influence crash that took the life of a young woman last year.

The Fallon man was returning home from his brother's funeral when his 2007 Chevrolet Silverado veered into oncoming traffic. Unfortunately, Speed's truck collided with 19-year-old Samantha Sibis's 1983 Volvo station wagon, killing her instantly. According to the Lahontan Valley News, Speed's blood alcohol level was .231, well above the .08 legal limit and he was sentenced to 12 years in prison for causing the fatal DUI-related accident.

Contact our Orange County DUI Attorneys today if you have been involved in a driving under the influence related accident. We will provide you with the legal advice and support that you need during this difficult time.

June 13, 2011

Posting Bail After a California DUI Arrest

Handcuffs.jpgMany of those arrested for a California DUI are first-time offenders who have never been in trouble with the law before. Therefore, the California DUI bail process is often completely foreign and confusing. Here are a few commonly asked questions and answers.

What is bail?

Essentially, bail is monetary security that is paid to the court to ensure that you show up for a future court date. Depending on the circumstances, bail can range from the low thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

When is bail required?

It is generally only required following a felony California DUI arrest; most drivers arrested for a misdemeanor are released on their own recognizance after spending the night in jail.

Because of the severity of a California felony DUI, these drivers are usually detained until they can post bail or stand for arraignment.

How do you post bail?

A professional bail bondsman can assist you with posting bail. In most cases, you will be required to pay the bail bondsman a portion of the total bail as a down payment. If you hire a qualified California Drunk Driving Defense Attorney, then you can most often get a discount in the required down payment.

Is the bail money returned?

The down payment you pay to the bail bondsman will not be returned, and if you fail to show up for any court dates, the full amount of the bail will be due.

If you or someone you know has been arrested for felony driving under the influence in California, it is imperative to consult with an experienced California DUI attorney who can help you navigate the California DUI criminal process.

May 31, 2011

California Man Gets 3 DUIs Within 3 Days

Timothy James McGowan, 50, could be facing up to two years in jail after he was arrested for three California drunk driving charges that occurred within three days, in three different cities.

The Mill Valley resident was in San Rafael on May 18th when he tried to enter a closed bank, drove off drunk and was arrested for a DUI. The following day, he was arrested for drunk driving in San Francisco and on May 20th, he was in Novato when he staggered into his vehicle before making a wide right turn in front of police.

According to the SF Gate, McGowan has had previous DUI convictions, petty theft, resisting arrest and drug possession and has been arrested four times for public intoxication between January and April.

Our Orange County DUI Attorneys have the experience and knowledge to handle any type of DUI case; contact us today for a free DUI case evaluation if you were recently arrested for driving under the influence.

May 26, 2011

What Is a "Wet Reckless" Charge in California?

Beer-Can-DUI.jpgMany California drivers may have heard the term "wet reckless" in the context of driving under the influence, but most do not quite understand what it means.

The term is confusing because you can't actually be arrested for "wet reckless." Instead, prosecutors can offer it as a reduced charge during DUI plea negotiations. It also commonly referred to as alcohol-related reckless driving.

Prosecutors will often reduce a DUI charge to wet reckless when:

  • The driver's blood alcohol content is close to the legal limit (0.08%); or
  • The DUI case has other weaknesses.
  • But the prosecutor still wants to convict the driver of something.

A "wet reckless" charge offers several advantages. The driver may avoid license suspension if the DMV hearing is also successful. In addition, it often results in a lesser penalty than a DUI conviction, including lesser fines and jail time.

However, it is important to recognize that a "wet reckless" conviction will still count as a prior drunk driving conviction if the driver is arrested again within the next ten years.

Drunk driving laws in California are extremely complicated and the facts of every case are different. Therefore, while a "wet reckless" plea may be advisable for some DUI defendants, it may not be the best option for others.

If you are facing a DUI arrest, it is imperative to consult with an experienced California DUI attorney who can help you reach the most favorable resolution for your DUI case.

Further information California DUI laws can be found at the California DUI Guide website. Drivers are also encouraged to contact experienced DUI defense attorney Thomas Wallin if they are arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in California.

May 25, 2011

Can a Urine Test Be Positive For Alcohol Without You Actually Consuming It?

If you constantly apply Purell hand sanitizer and have to participate in frequent drug tests for work, you may want to re-think your actions or you may be penalized for a California DUI or consuming alcohol even if you haven't had any.

DUI-breathalyzer-test.jpg A new study showed participants who applied hand sanitizer, which contains 62% ethyl alcohol, every 5 minutes for 10 hours a day for a total of three days ended up with 4 ounces of alcohol in their system; that's one ounce more than the maximum bottle size you can carry on a plane. Traditional breathalyzer tests, which are often used to determine whether someone has been driving under the influence, cannot pickup the alcohol content; however, a urine test is capable of coming out positive for alcohol in one's system. According to MSNBC, other products such as cough syrup, aftershave and mouthwash all contain alcohol and exposure to these may add to a positive urine test.

Our Orange County DUI Attorneys understand that being arrested for a DUI in Orange County or any type of drunk driving charge can be frustrating. We are here to answer any questions you may have, provide you with legal advice and assist you throughout your entire DUI case.

May 24, 2011

Accident Results in Boy Being Ejected, Driver Arrested for DUI

Isaac Solorio Beaver, 28, was arrested for driving under the influence after he fled from the scene of a DUI-related accident that occurred at 7am on Saturday morning.

The Brawley man was driving a 1996 Volvo sedan when he failed to stop at a red light and plowed through the intersection. Juan Bernal was driving his 2007 Toyota Rav4 through the intersection when he was hit by Beaver's sedan. A 12-year-old boy in the Rav4 was ejected through the vehicle and landed on the center dirt median and had to be taken to the local hospital to be treated for injuries. Bernal and two other passengers, 10 and 16 year old boys, all suffered minor to moderate injuries.

According to the Imperial Valley Press Online, Beaver ran from the scene of the accident but was later caught and arrested by highway patrol officers and is facing felony DUI charges.

Contact our Orange County DUI Defense Attorneys today if you have been arrested for driving under the influence in or around Orange County.

April 28, 2011

Weekend DUI Checkpoints 4/28-5/1

During a DUI Checkpoint, officers will be looking for signs of intoxication and will be requiring motorists to perform field sobriety tests. If you find yourself arrested during a DUI checkpoint, contact our Orange County DUI Attorneys to receive the best possible representation. Below are a few DUI Checkpoints that may be near you; however, this is not a complete list of potential check points that may be set up throughout the weekend.

Thursday 4/28
Costa Mesa: 6pm-12am @ Sunflower Ave. & Anton Blvd
Fountain Valley: 9pm-3am - undisclosed location
Moreno Valley: 6pm-11:30pm - undisclosed location

Friday, 4/29:
Alhambra: 6:30pm-2:30am - undisclosed location
Coachella: 7pm-2am - undisclosed location
Los Angeles: 8pm-2am - Florence Ave. between Main St. & Broadway
Goleta: 7pm-early morning - undisclosed location
Rancho Mirage: 8pm-2am - undisclosed location
San Diego: 10pm-4am - undisclosed location
Santa Clarita: 6pm-2am - undisclosed location
Stanton: 6pm-2am - undisclosed location
Sherman Oaks: 8pm-2am - Ventura Blvd. at Columbus Ave.
Whittier: 7pm-3am - Leffingwell Road & Santa Gertrudes Avenue
Yuba City: 7pm-early morning - undisclosed location

Saturday, 4/30:
Folsom: 7pm - early morning - Greenback Lane & River Rock Drive
Roseville: 9pm-2am - undisclosed location

April 25, 2011

California Man Crashes Car, Arrested for DUI

A California man has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after causing a one-car crash.

Around 5:30am, Oscar Pablo Ocegueda, 29, was driving on Highway 29 when he veered off the road and struck an electric pole early Sunday morning. According to the Napa Valley Register, Ocegueda's 1998 Chevy Camaro was the only vehicle involved in the accident and no injuries were reported. Ocegueda was arrested for a California DUI and has been booked at the Napa County jail.

Contact our Orange County DUI Attorneys if you have recently been involved in a DUI-related accident. We understand how frustrating it can be to be arrested for a DUI and will fight to get you the best possible result in your specific case.

Vons Truck Driver Arrested for DUI

Benjamin Arroyo, 44, has been arrested for driving under the influence after he crashed a Vons truck on the Santa Ana Freeway early Saturday morning.

The truck driver was on the freeway in Norwalk when he struck a 30-foot guardrail on the right shoulder and jackknifed into the center median and one lane of the northbound freeway. According to KTLA, the Vons truck then began to burn and exploded, causing minor injuries to the driver. No other injuries were reported and Arroyo was taken to the Norwalk Community Hospital where he was treated for his injuries.

Our Orange County DUI Attorneys have been practicing DUI defense for over a decade and will provide you with the best possible representation; contact us today to find out how we can help with your driving under the influence case.

April 14, 2011

High School Coach Arrested for DUI In OC

Alvin Harrison, a Gilroy high school track and field coach, is being held on a $50,000 bond at an Orange County jail for causing a DUI-related accident.

The 37-year-old two-time Olympic gold medalist was down in Orange County on a school athletic field trip when he collided into another vehicle on state Highway 73. No students were in the vehicle at the time of the accident and once officers arrived at the scene of the accident, they arrested Harrison for driving under the influence with a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or more. Harrison is being charged with a DUI causing bodily injury to any person other than the driver and driving with a suspended license.

Contact our Orange County DUI Attorneys if you have been involved in a DUI-related accident or have been arrested for driving under the influence in or around Orange County.

April 12, 2011

OC Judge Accused of Helping Friends With Traffic Tickets

An Orange County Superior Court Judge, known for several news-worth cases including a 2009 Orange County DUI-related accident, has been accused of giving preferential treatment to friends and family members over a seven year span

Judge Richard W. Stanford Jr., 63, is the fourth longest serving judge on the Orange County bench with 26 years as a judge as well as 12 years before that as a deputy district attorney. According to the OC Register, Stanford entered guilty pleas on behalf of the defendants but waived fines and fees. An upcoming July 25th hearing could result in Stanford receiving disciplinary actions such as admonishment to a public censure or removal from office.

Contact our Orange County DUI Defense Attorneys if you find yourself arrested for driving under the influence in Orange County. Our OC DUI Lawyers have been practicing DUI defense for over a decade and will fight to get you the best possible sentencing in your specific case.

March 25, 2011

Hit-and-Run By a 21 Year Old Results in DUI Arrest

Jose Espinoza, 21, has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after a hit-and-run accident.

Espinoza, from Spring Valley, was driving eastbound on Jamacha Road in his 2000 Chevy pickup truck through a red light when he sideswiped a 2001 Lincoln Navigator who was driving on a green light. According to Sign on San Diego, Espinoza fled the scene however officers were able to find him 20 minutes after the accident occurred. The driver of the navigator was taken to a hospital with head injuries while Espinoza was arrested for driving under the influence, felony hit and run as well as causing an injury.

Contact our Orange County DUI Defense Lawyers today if you have been involved in a DUI-related accident or have been arrested for driving under the influence.

March 14, 2011

California Woman Impersonates Sister, Arrested for DUI

Rachel Kathleen Zock, 20, was arrested on suspicion of a DUI, impersonating another to avoid prosecution as well as obstruction and delaying an officer.

According to the Napa Valley Register, the underage Napa woman was stopped after she was speeding 76mph in a 60mph zone. Officers asked the woman to perform a DUI field sobriety test after they smelled alcohol in her vehicle however Zock then began to punch and kick the officers.

The woman was taken to the Queen of the Valley Medical Center for blood tests where hospital personnel recognized the woman; officers then realized that Zock had been impersonating her 21 year old sister to avoid being arrested. The 20 year old has been booked into Napa County jail and is being held on bond.

Once you are arrested for driving under the influence, you could also be charged with enhancements such as speeding or child endangerment. If you have recently been arrested for a California DUI, contact our Orange County DUI Defense Attorneys to learn more about what you could be facing and how we can help you.

March 10, 2011

California Police Sergeant Arrested for DUI

Sergeant Steven E. Sexton was arrested for a California DUI on Monday afternoon in eastern Woodland.

According to the Daily Democrat, the 52-year-old Woodland sergeant was driving his 2004 Triumph motorcycle near Schlotz Court and Burns Way. California Highway Patrol stopped Sexton, noticed signs of intoxication and proceeded to arrested him for driving under the influence.

Contact a California DUI Lawyer if you have been arrested for driving under the influence, have been in a DUI-related accident or have a felony DUI case.

March 8, 2011

Radio Show Host Arrested For DUI

Harry M. Teinowitz, 50, has been arrested on suspicion of DUI in Skokie Friday night.

According to the Huffington Post, the ESPN 1000's hit radio show personality, known for the show The Afternoon Salon, was driving his Nissan SUV on Greenwood Street when officers pulled him over for improper lane usage. Officers arrested Teinowitz after they noticed signs of intoxication and is being held on a $1,000 bond.

Have you been recently arrested for driving under the influence? Contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers today for more information on what you could be facing.

March 7, 2011

Fatal Hit and Run, Woman Arrested for DUI

A former Ventura children's store owner has been arrested on suspicion of a California DUI as well as vehicular manslaughter after a hit and run that turned deadly.

43 year old Shannon Richard was driving her 2008 Mitsubishi when she hit 40 year old Jose Luis Carmona as he was walking alongside his bike; unfortunately, Carmona died from blunt force injuries. According to keyt.com, officers found Richard at her home nearby where she claimed she thought she hit an animal.

Have you been in a DUI with accident? Speak with our leading California DUI Defense Lawyers for a free DUI case evaluation.

March 3, 2011

Husband Drives 35 Miles with Wife on Hood, Arrested for DUI

A 36 year old man has been arrested and booked for attempted murder and suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs after he drove 35 miles with his wife on the hood of the car.

According to the Huffington Post, Christopher Carroll had an argument with his wife when he got into his vehicle at around 12:30am; the wife got onto the hood of the minivan to stop her husband, however, she got stuck and he took off with her clinging for her life. Carroll drove for 35 miles at speeds of up to 100 mph from Manteca to Pleasanton where the wife was able to roll off of the car onto the highway. The woman was taken to a local hospital where she was treated for hypothermia.

If you recently been in a DUI related accident, contact our California DUI Lawyers today.

February 23, 2011

Chico Man Crashes into Stopped Car, Arrested for DUI

James McFadden Jr., 57, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after officers watched him hit another car.

According to Chico ER, California Highway Patrol was on its way to intercept a vehicle that was said to be driving recklessly near Highways 149 and 70. Officers noticed a car matching the description taking the off ramp; once officers started to follow the vehicle, they watched McFadden crash his Mercury Mountaineer into a Ford Escape that was stopped at a stoplight. There were no injuries but minor damage to the vehicles. Officers had McFadden perform field sobriety tests and booked him into the Butte County Jail.

Contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys if you have been arrested for a DUI-related accident.

February 11, 2011

California City Attorney Crashes, Arrested for DUI

A Lakeport city attorney has been arrested for a California DUI after he hit a car and fled from the scene.

The Lake County Record Bee states that Steven John Brookes, 53, who works as a city attorney and operates a private practice, was driving his Volvo eastbound on Main Street Kelseyville when he crossed into the westbound lane, striking a Ford F-350 who was pulling out of a gas station. Brookes drove away but was later located on Konocti Road and was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. At 9:30pm Brookes was booked into county jail but release at 11:10pm.

Have you been arrested for a DUI-related accident? Speak with our qualified California DUI Defense Lawyers today to learn more on what your rights are and what you could be facing.

January 25, 2011

School Bus Driver Arrested for Driving Under the Influence

Lorna Gollihar, a school bus driver, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence Saturday evening in Stockton.

According to KCRA.com, the Turlock Unified School District driver was weaving and running cars off of State Route 99 in Stockton when officers pulled her over. After failing the field sobriety tests, Gollihar was arrested and booked at the San Joaquin County Jail with a DUI and BAC of .08% or more. No children were on the bus when Gollihar was driving.

If you have been arrested in California for a DUI, contact a knowledgeable DUI Defense Attorney for more information.

January 11, 2011

27 Year Old San Luis Obispo Man Charged with DUI After Crash

Scott Metcalf, 27, was arrested for a DUI after crashing his 2010 Toyota Tacoma into a utility pole in San Luis Obispo. After crashing, Metcalf fled from the scene but officers were able to locate him and arrested him for driving under the influence. He was booked into county jail and his DUI bail was set for $5,000.

According to SanLuisObispo.com, the 200 block of Higuera Street, where the accident occurred, was closed off for 2 hours as the utility lines were being fixed. Thankfully, no one was injured.

If you or someone you know has been arrested for a DUI, contact a quality California DUI Defense Lawyer today for more information regarding you case.

October 4, 2010

Merced County DUI with injury

Saturday night ended in the hospitalization of two teenage girls after a short pursuit ended in a crash. A 17-year-old driver of a reportedly stolen 2006 Nissan was pursued by Merced County sheriff's. The pursuit lasted around 20 seconds before the Nissan hit an embankment becoming airborne, rolling over and ejecting a 17-year-old female passenger. A 15 -year-old female passenger also suffered major injuries. The driver tried to flee the scene on foot but was quickly apprehended. The driver of the vehicle faces felony charges which could result in state prison time. Any time there is a DUI with injury whether it is to another driver, passenger or even pedestrian you can be charged with a felony. A state prison sentence can be terrifying. If you are faced with felony drunk driving charges you need to call our team of knowledgeable DUI attorneys today.

March 4, 2010

Woman charged with 2 DUI's in 3 days!

A 43 year old woman was drunk driving not once but twice in 3 Days. The woman was arrested by the same officer both times while wearing pajamas and no shoes both times. The Sheriff's office reported that the woman was pulled over and arrested on Saturday and released the same day. That following Monday the woman was stopped and cited by the same arresting officer with a blood alcohol level twice the limit. In the state of California it is illegal to drive with a BAC of .08% or higher. If you are charged with a DUI you will be facing two separate cases: One is with the DMV and the other is with the court. When you are arrested and charged with drunk driving in California you only have 10 days to contact the California Department of Motor Vehicles to request a hearing. If you don't, your license will automatically be suspended starting 30 days of your arrest for DUI. Contact an experienced California DUI Defense Attorney that knows the laws and will fight to get you the best possible outcome. Call us for a free consultation or fill out our free evaluation form online.

January 20, 2010

Anchorwoman arrested for La Jolla DUI

Allison Ross, anchorwoman for KFMB-TV for twelve years during 1978 to 1989 was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence last weekend. Ms. Ross was driving on the wrong side of the road at around 4 am Sunday according to the San Diego Police Department. Ross, also worked as an anchorwoman for KNSD for two years after leaving KFMB. She was arrested near her La Jolla home. An arrest for driving under the influence can be a very serious charge. No matter what the circumstances of your drunk driving case, you should always consult a qualified California DUI Defense Attorney. We can provide a free consultation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Contact our offices now at 888-444-7210.

December 21, 2009

Five San Bernardino DUI Arrests in Patrol Operation

This past Saturday, the San Bernardino police arrested five people on suspicion of drunk driving during an eight-hour operation. Various other drivers were arrested or cited for other charges such as driving on a suspended or revoked license. San Bernardino DUI patrol operations such as this are common in arresting a number of possible drunk drivers. If you are ever charged with a DUI, then you need to know what to do next. It's important to have proper representation when dealing with a drunk driving charge because DUI cases can be difficult and complicated. There can be a number of defenses in dealing with a San Bernardino DUI that you may not be aware that may pertain to your case. It's important that you contact our California drunk driving defense attorney for further help in handling your DUI.

November 9, 2009

Labor Day Weekend Means More Orange County DUI Checkpoints

Orange County, home to picturesque coast line and perfect weather for Labor Day weekend Barbeques is also home to a number of DUI Checkpoints. Orange County DUI Checkpoints are scheduled to be set up in Dana Point, Newport Beach and La Habra. Due to the high number of travelers and drinking associated with this holiday, all available California Highway Patrol Officers will be on heightened awareness for those driving under the influence in Orange County. To learn more about the planned Orange County DUI Checkpoints during Labor Day Weekend visit CHP Cracking Down on Drunk Drivers During Holiday Weekend. California arresting officers are required to follow a number of strict guidelines in order to secure a Constitutional DUI Checkpoint. First, the public must be given advance notice of when and where a checkpoint is going to be set up. Next, the arresting agency must follow a "neutral mathematical formula" when pulling over the vehicles. Finally a legal out must be provided for all drivers prior to arriving at the California DUI Checkpoint. An experienced California DUI Defense Attorney will know the laws associated with sobriety checkpoints and will tell you what defenses arise in your case. It is important to hire a dedicated Orange County Drunk Driving Defense Lawyer immediately after being arrested for a California DUI so that the DMV can be contacted to protect your driving privileges and a strong defense can be built in your case.

July 27, 2008

'Indiana Jones' star LeBeouf arrested for DUI in LA County

This time the Celebrity might be in some serious trouble. It appears his Los Angeles County arrest may become a felony because of injuries sustained to those in the accident. Having handled hundreds of cases out of LA County involving DUI accidents with injuries I know if often depends on the types of injuries and the DUI suspect's prior criminal history as to how the case is handled. If you or a loved one has been involved on a DUI accident in Los Angeles County and need a Los Angeles County DUI Defense Attorney, contact my offices immediately for a free LA County DUI consultation. It's important to contact a California criminal defense attorney that focuses on DUI right away as your insurance company may request statements from you that could end up being damaging to your DUI criminal cases. Our Los Angeles County DUI defense Law Offices can assist you with any statements to insurance companies. As reported on msn.com, Officers in Los Angeles say "Indiana Jones" co-star Shia LaBeouf has been arrested for drunk driving following an early morning car accident in Hollywood. Los Angeles County Sheriff's Sgt. S. Wolf says LaBeouf was the driver of a vehicle that was involved in a 3 a.m. collision. LeBeouf and his passenger were injured, as was the other driver. Wolf said he didn't know the extent of their injuries. Wolf says officers at the scene Sunday morning reported it was clear to them that LaBeouf was intoxicated. Wolf says it is unknown whether LaBeouf will face felony or misdemeanor charges

June 11, 2008

Defendant Wins Breathalyzer Source Code

Defendant Wins Breathalyzer Source Code

After being arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) and submitting to a breath test, Dale Lee Underdahl, at a subsequent court hearing, challenged the breathalyzer’s results and its admittance into evidence by requesting a “complete computer source code” for it.  As a skilled DUI defense attorney, I often find the need to make such requests in order to challenge the admissibility of breath test results. 
Breath test machines are prone to a number of problems.  For years, it has been established that problems do exist with these machines, many of which stem from improper calibration and maintenance.  As an experienced California DUI lawyer, I understand exactly how breath tests should be administered and am aware of the flaws in the processes that exist.  I will fully investigate the accuracy of the results and when discrepancies are noted, move to have the test results excluded as evidence.  

When you are arrested for DUI , the single most important thing to do is to contact a California DUI attorney as soon as possible.  California DUI laws are constantly changing and tend to be quite complex.  As a leading California DUI Law Firm, our drunk-driving defense attorneys are highly experienced at building a strong DUI defense for our clients, which often minimizes the penalties incurred.  

If you have been arrested for DUI/Drunk driving in California, please contact the Law Offices of Thomas Wallin for a FREE CONSULTATION immediately.  Our DUI Law Firm represents individuals accused of drunk driving throughout Southern California, including Driving Under the Influence cases in Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside , San Bernardino and San Diego

To read more about Dale Lee Underdahl’s case, please visit http://www.news.com/Police-Blotter-Defendant-wins-breathalyzer-source-code/2100-7348_3-6201632.html.

June 5, 2008

Officer Found Not Guilty of Drunk Driving Charge

Recently, in Massachusetts a town police officer was cleared of drunk-driving charges by a Fitchburg District Court Judge.  The charges against James Scesny, 38, of Clinton, were dismissed after Judge Andrew Mandell threw out the blood alcohol results because they were taken at the hospital without Scesny’s consent. 

 

Mr. Scesny was first arrested in May of 2007 after an accident in Clinton in which he and his girlfriend were injured when Mr. Scesny struck a telephone pole.  The case was headed toward a jury trail, but in a hearing on February 1, 2008, Judge Mandell allowed Scesny’s attorney’s motion to keep the blood alcohol test out of the trial.  Two blood samples that were taken at the Clinton Hospital showed that Mr. Scesny’s blood-alcohol content was 0.168%, well above Massachusetts’s legal limit.  In his motion to dismiss the test results, Scesny’s attorney argued that the police took the samples without his consent.  Mr. Scesny stated that he did, in fact, refuse to submit to blood testing three times.  Further, Mr. Scensy’s attorney cited the Fourth Amendment’s protection of unreasonable searches and seizure of property.  Scesny was ordered to pay $200 in court costs and $50 for a victim witness assessment.  He will return to active duty at the end of March, following a six-month suspension.

 

Mr. Scesny is quite lucky that his arrest did not occur here in California.  As a California DUI Attorney, I regularly handle refusal cases, but unfortunately, California law does allow the police to force blood draws on individuals suspected of drunk driving.  If, like Mr. Scesny, you refuse a chemical test, the police may opt to force a blood sample from you.  In addition, because of your refusal, you will incur additional penalties for refusing to submit to the chemical test.  According to California law, an individual who refuses to submit to chemical testing may be subjected to a forced blood draw without violating his or her Fourth Amendment rights (People v. Sugarman (2002) 96 Cal.App.4th 210, 214-216) so long as there is probable cause to believe that the individual was driving drunk and the blood draw is performed in a reasonable, medically approved manner. (People v. Ford (1992) 4 Cal.App.4th 32, 35.)

When you are arrested for driving-under-the-influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs, the single most important thing you should do is to contact a California DUI defense attorney as soon as possible.  California DUI laws are constantly changing and are highly complex.  Our California DUI Law Firm, has experienced drunk-driving defense attorneys who are skilled at building a strong drunk-driving defense for our clients and who are often are able to minimize the penalties that result from such charges.  If  you have been arrested for DUI in California, please contact the Law Offices of Thomas Wallin for a FREE CONSULTATION immediately.  We represent individuals accused of DUI throughout Southern California, including those drunk-driving cases in Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego.


To read more about Mr. Scesny’s case, visit:  http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/news/x2019417142

June 28, 2007

Mistaking diabetic shock for drunk and disorderly behavior

This is another example of what can happen to innocent people when individuals are quick to accuse people of being under the influence. Unfortunately, as a California DUI defense attorney, I see too often how the innocent are wrongly accused of being under the influence.  It seems in today’s society, with the pressure from groups like MADD, police and the public are in a hurry to blame alcohol for anything and everything. Hopefully Mr. Sims is found soon and we need to make sure we hold companies (Amtrak in this case) accountable for such despicable conduct. The story is below

 

A 65-year-old St. Louis man is missing after Amtrak personnel, mistaking his diabetic shock for drunk and disorderly behavior, kicked him off a train in the middle of a national forest, according to police in Williams, Ariz. READ MORE…

 

April 16, 2007

Pilot failed breath test after going on diet

Diets and DUI, Please follow the link for a storey on a Pilot that was arrested after officers suspected he was under the influence of alcohol. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2007/04/14/npilot14.xml

It turns out the pilot was on a low carb diet and subsequent blood tests determined he did not have much if any actual alcohol in his system. At this time the pilot has no comment and is looking forward to getting back in the air. This is just another example as to the unreliability of breath tests. Hopefully more stories like this will get out to the public so people will understand the reading from the breath test isn’t the end of the world. As a DUI lawyer in California, I have an extensive questionnaire for my clients so we can look at every possible defense to a charge of DUI.

 

January 3, 2007

Reliability of Blood Testing After DUI Arrests

When your blood is taken for testing after a DUI arrest, it’s properly labeled and taken care of, right?  That’s what’s supposed to happen with your blood sample.  It’s labeled with your name by lab professionals and the chain of custody is supposed to keep samples from getting mixed up before, during, and after testing.  With these procedures in place, test samples should never get mixed up.  That sounds good in theory, but the truth is that samples do get mixed up and it results in innocent people being prosecuted for and convicted of driving under the influence.  There are many things that can go wrong with that small vial of blood drawn from someone who has been arrested for driving under the influence.  When you’re at the lab for testing, one of the first mistakes that can be made is mislabeling of the sample.  If a lab professional grabs the wrong label, your name can get attached to the sample of someone who actually did exceed the legal blood alcohol content limit.  Another mistake that can occur during the testing process is that your sample can be assigned the wrong result.  This happens because it is much more cost-effective to test all of the samples in batches using a mechanical process.  The machine is loaded with a batch of samples, they are tested, and results are assigned.  If the machine somehow gets off-kilter, your sample could be assigned an incorrect result and you could be charged with driving under the influence.  Despite the many problems with the reliability of blood testing after DUI arrests, no major changes have been made in the testing process and blood tests continue to be used as integral pieces of evidence in DUI cases.  If you believe a lab error was responsible for your failing blood test result, contact a San Bernardino DUI lawyer to find out your options.

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December 30, 2006

Are Field Sobriety Tests Really Designed to Exonerate Drivers?

Any law enforcement officer or politician will tell you that field sobriety tests give drivers an opportunity to show that they are not impaired due to the consumption of alcohol.  Many people view field sobriety testing as a means for drivers to prove their innocence if they have been accused of drunk driving.  However, field sobriety testing is really used as a means of gathering evidence on the part of law enforcement officers.  Think about what happens at a DUI traffic stop – if a law enforcement officer believes you are impaired, he has already made up his mind about your innocence and will use field sobriety testing to try to gather evidence to support their assessment of your condition.  If a law enforcement officer asks you to submit to sobriety testing, he or she is going to see what is suspected.  If you stumble or trip, the officer is going to use it as evidence to back up the fact that he thinks you’re guilty of driving under the influence.  Another point to consider is that even people who have not been drinking may not do well on sobriety tests.  They often take place in the dark on roadways that may not be even or cared for well.  This combined with the fact that the headlights of cars driving by can cause people to stumble, means that not everyone can do well on sobriety tests even if they are not impaired.  It doesn’t seem fair that these tests can be used against drivers accused of driving under the influence, but that’s the way it works in the “land of the free.”  If you are arrested for driving under the influence, contact a Los Angeles DUI attorney as soon as possible so you have the best possible chance of having a positive outcome for your case.

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December 29, 2006

Breathalyzers Measure Alcohol, Right?

Most people know that a Breathalyzer is a device that is used in cases where a driver is suspected of driving under the influence.  This device is used to administer breath testing to determine if a driver is impaired or above the legal limit for blood alcohol content.  A driver breathes into this device and it calculates a possible blood alcohol content level.  This device can make or break a driver’s day – if the device shows no alcohol or an acceptable amount of alcohol, no driving under the influence charges will be filed.  If the device shows an alcohol level above the accepted limit, the driver can be charged with driving under the influence and face criminal penalties as well as the loss of driving privileges.  Most people also believe that the Breathalyzer measures alcohol in the breath.  This is wrong information; this device actually tests for the presence of methyl groups.  Methyl groups are part of the chemical structure of many substances, so instead of positively identifying alcohol in the breath, a positive result may be identifying one of many substances including mouthwash, chewing gum, breath freshening spray, and other non-alcoholic substances that would not cause impairment.  Instead of measuring only alcohol content, these devices can pick up any ordinary substance that happens to have a methyl group.  If you have the misfortune of ingesting one of these substances or using oral products containing methyl groups, and then you are stopped and asked to submit to breath testing, you may find yourself facing DUI charges all because you wanted to freshen your breath.  That’s the type of “justice” system citizens of this country are faced with every day.  If you’ve been charged with a DUI offense, contact a San Diego DUI lawyer immediately to begin building your defense.

Continue reading "Breathalyzers Measure Alcohol, Right?" »

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