Drunk Driving
One of the worst types of accidents is the one that could have been prevented. Probably the most common type of "accident" that is 100% preventable is the drunk driving accident. Drunk driving accidents often result in catastrophic injury or death. The number of drunk driving accidents in the United States has reached epidemic proportion. Statistics show that 3 out of every 10 people in this country will be involved in an alcohol-related crash at some point in their lives. If you are or have been in that group of "3," an experience personal injury attorney may be able to help.

Sobering Statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), two years ago, motor vehicle accidents involving alcohol accounted for 1,1719 deaths in the US. In 1,250 of those cases, the driver was legally drunk, which means his blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was at or above .08 percent. While the BAC level for being legally intoxicated varies from state to state, most states are right around .08 percent.

If you are caught driving after drinking, you may be charged with a DUI (driving under the influence) or a DWI (driving while intoxicated). You may also be charged with either of these if your driving is impaired due to the use of drugs such as marijuana, prescription drugs, or cocaine.

Since drinking and driving is a crime, if you are caught you, you may be prosecuted and punished. However, the criminal justice system does not compensate the victims in drunk driving accidents; it merely punishes the offender. That's where personal injury law comes in.

One area of personal injury law focuses on drunk driving accidents. If you have been the victim of a drunk driver, you may be entitled to receive monetary compensation for:

• Medical bills • Rehabilitation • Lost wages • Future lost earnings • Funeral expenses • Loss of consortium • Pain and suffering

An experienced drunk driving personal injury attorney will have the expertise and resources to fight your case and win.

Effects of DWI on Driving Records
You probably don't need anyone to tell you that DWI Laws are strictly enforced. You can be charged with a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) if your breath test indicates a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or more. If your breath shows .04% to .07%, you can be charged with the lesser offense of Driving While Impaired (DWI). These are two convictions you want to avoid. Regardless of what the actual charge is, any DWI-related offense can ruin an otherwise-good driving record.

In Maryland, a drinking-related offense can permanently tarnish a clean driving record and affect your life in many ways:

• Increase in car insurance premiums • Employers will have access to your driving record

People with a DUI or DWI on their driving record have, in some cases, petitioned the court to have their record expunged after ten years, but this may not happen in your case. In fact, due to how seriously Maryland takes it DWI offenses, having this expunged from your record probably will not happen.

Insurance Rates Following a DWI

After your automobile insurance company is notified that you have been convicted of a DUI or DWI, your rates will increase substantially, if it does not get cancelled altogether. If one insurance company cancels you, you can certainly expect that others will not be thrilled to sign you on, either.

After being convicted of a DUI or DWI, you will be required to file what is called an SR-22 form to get what is called Maryland SR-DD insurance, which is required for a period of three years after a drunk driving conviction and can be very expensive. If your insurance policy lapses for any reason (or is cancelled), your insurance company will notify the Maryland Department of Motor Vehicles, and your license will be suspended until you find a new insurance company who will cover you and then you will file a new SR-22 form.

Effect on Employment

If you are required to drive as part of your career or job, you DUI & DWI Conviction will, in some cases, place your job in serious jeopardy, especially since your license will be suspended. If you have a Commercial Driver's License, the trouble is even compounded because the penalties for a DUI with a CDL are even more serious.

Some jobs that are difficult to maintain or get following a DUI or DWI conviction include:

• Child care work • Healthcare work • Government work • Law enforcement

DWI and DUI; Source Code Defense, Minnesota Supreme Court Rules

What is a Source Code?

In simple terms, the source code is the computerized language that operates a device. It provides the device with a set of commands on how to analyze data and even when to turn "on" or turn "off." Source codes are used to operate your computer, your microwave, or your cell phone. They are also used to operate devices used in DWI cases to determine blood alcohol content.

What is the issue?

As anyone who has used a computer knows, coding errors can occur. Source codes are not infallible. They are subject to human error, mechanical failures and even malicious coding. Treating them as infallible in court when it comes to testing blood alcohol in the breath, violates due process of a defendant when that defendant is unable to seek independent testing of the code used.

The Legal Issue?

In 2006, defendant's in a DWI case in Florida sought the computerized source code for the breath testing device used in DWI offenses, a version of the Intoxilyzer 5000. The source code, it was argued, was necessary for testing to determine if proper programming was included in the device so that it was accurately assessing blood alcohol concentrations.

The issue with the request that occurred was that the manufacturer of the Intoxilyzer device, CMI, Inc., of Kentucky, considered its source code a trade secret and, as a result, refused to release it to the state to be turned over as discovery to the defendant. Ultimately, the Florida Court refused to require the state to provide the defendant, Todd Moe, the source code.

Similar challenges began to spring up in many states. In Minnesota, two Dakota county cases raised the issue. In those cases, State v. Underdahl, and State v. Brunner, the lower trial courts ruled that the source code was discoverable and had to be turned over to the defense. When the company, CMI, Inc., refused to part with its source code, the breath test results were suppressed. The cases were appealed, finally making their way to the Minnesota Supreme Court for review.

On April 30, 2009, the Minnesota Supreme Court issued its ruling on the two combined cases.

It decided that computer source code for the intoxilyzer 5000 machine is within the control of the state and that it must be turned over to defense counsel when the defense makes a showing that the under the Minnesota Criminal Rules of Procedure Rule 9.01, subd. 1, provided, however, a showing is made that the information may relate to the guilt or innocence of the defendant or negate guilt or reduce the culpability of the defendant as to the offense charged.

The end result is that the Minnesota opinion provides defense attorneys a template by which they may seek the source code in cases where computerized analysis of breath samples occurs. It does require, however, that the defense, provide a reasonable basis as to why the code is relevant to the guilt of innocence of the individual in more than general terms. In most instances expert testimony related to the nature of the source code and how errors may occur would be necessary coupled with any indicia that errors have occurred historically. Ultimately, if CMI, Inc. continues in its refusal to provide the source code to the state, challenges to the admissibility of breath test results in DWI cases will continue to increase and provide defense attorney's a much needed tool in combating the reliability of the Intoxilyzer 5000

DUI Charges vs DWI Charges
One of the most common criminal charges that people are faced with are DWI or DUI charges. Both of these offenses involve driving a vehicle while under the influence of an intoxicating substance. However, a DWI (driving while intoxicated) charge refers specifically to alcohol. A DUI (driving under the influence) charge can also refer to other drugs such as marijuana or prescription medications. Both of these charges are quite serious, and can involve jail time, heavy fines, probation and community service.

More and more states are tightening up their laws concerning DWI and DUI charges. Years ago, people who were charged with these offenses often only received minor fines and penalties. This is far from the case today, though. Since more has been discovered regarding the consequences of drunk drivers, states around the country have enacted legislation that has dramatically increased the penalties associated with these crimes.

Drinking and driving is a very risky proposition. Any time you consume alcohol and get behind the wheel of a car, you run the risk of harming yourself or others. Indeed, a huge percentage of traffic fatalities and injuries are directly attributable to alcohol consumption. Almost everyone seems to know someone who has been effected by the actions of a drunk driver. Educational measures attempt to alleviate the problem, but prosecution seems to be the most effective deterrent in most cases.

That being said, what can a person expect when they are charged with a DWI or a DUI? Usually, immediately upon being pulled over by a law enforcement officer, a person is given a series of field sobriety tests. These vary from case to case, but usually involve trying to gauge any intoxication based on testing a person's motor skills and mental clarity. Common examples including reciting the alphabet backwards and touching your pointer finger to the tip of your nose.

After conducting these tests, a law enforcement officer will have a fairly good idea as to whether or not you are intoxicated. Considered to be probable cause, the officer will usually then present you with a portable Breathalyzer test. Refusing to do the test is a risky proposition, as the officer will then usually choose to have a blood sample taken. Even without a roadside Breathalyzer test, an officer with enough probable cause - i.e., through field sobriety tests and observations about things like smelling liquor on your person - will be enough to place you under arrest.

Most people are taken to jail until they can see a judge or post a bond. This is when a person is best off hiring a professional lawyer to help them with their case, too. While some states have very rigid laws in place, there is still enough "wiggle room" for an attorney to make a significant difference in the type and severity of the penalties imposed by a judge. Going in for a DUI or DWI hearing unrepresented usually results in every possible charge being rendered against you.

Therefore, if you ever make the mistake of drinking and driving and are arrested, make sure to hire a knowledgeable attorney. Their advice and counsel can dramatically improve the outcome of your case. The extra money that you spend will be well worth the amount of time and grief you will be exposed to by a judge who imposes stiff penalties on you.

The information you obtain from this article is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for individual advice regarding your own situation.

Winning your DWI or DUI Case

The Criminal Case of DWI
All state s have laws that preclude drunk driving and DWI. Each year those laws are amended to include increasingly harsh penalties. Repeat offenders may face: (1) lengthy incarceration periods, (2) requirements to abstain from non-prescribed mood altering chemicals, drugs or alcohol; (3) requirements to attend alcohol education classes; (4) requirements to have a chemical use evaluation performed and follow any recommendations which may include treatment; (5) requirements to submit to random testing for the presence of drugs or alcohol; (6) equipping automobiles with alcohol interlock devices which preclude the automobile from running unless an alcohol free breath sample is provided; (7) payment of fines.

These penalties are significant. However, they cost of a DWI does not end with the criminal proceedings. There are also civil penalties associated with DWI cases.

License Revocation or Cancellation - The Implied Consent

A DWI is not only a criminal case, it has a civil elements as well. Civil penalties may include license revocation/cancellation, vehicle plate impoundments, and, even vehicle forfeitures.

The license revocation/cancellation related to a DWI is a case entirely separate from the criminal matter. The revocation/cancellation period becomes longer with each successive DWI offense or Implied Consent license revocation/cancellation. After three or more DWI offenses, a driver may face a cancellation period for a number of years during which time they will be allowed no license. To reinstate license, many states require a payment of a significant filing fee, new testing on the rules of the road, as well as documentation that the driver has completed chemical abuse treatment and abstained from alcohol for a defined period. Nothing in the criminal matter will change the license revocation/cancellation period which occurs automatically unless the driver seeks a judicial review of that revocation. In many states, there is a very short timeline after the revocation/cancellation occurs to seek a review of that license revocation/cancellation.

There are also additional consequences when a driver has a number of DWI convictions or Implied Consent violations. In addition to losing a driver's license, a driver may find their automobile insurance cancelled. They may also face plate impoundments and vehicle forfeitures. A vehicle forfeiture means that the city or state may take the driver's vehicle without providing them any compensation for it. Driver's with serial violations may also be issued a restricted license when they reinstate. A restricted license, called a "B" card in some states, includes a lifetime restriction against ANY consumption of alcohol if the driver wishes to obtain and/or retain a driver's license.

Collateral Consequences

People who simply plead guilty to a DWI offense without consulting an experienced lawyer often ignore or are ignorant to the significant consequences of their plea. A DWI conviction has a very indelible effect on a criminal and driving record which can have significant collateral consequences. Even one offense can affect a person's employability ore even their chances for a work promotion. A DWI may also prevent even simple trips out of the country with countries like Canada that have immigration rules that preclude entry to those convicted of a DWI.

Defenses on a DWI Case

Too many people feel that there is no hope in a DWI case and, as a result, simply choose to throw in the towel and enter a plea of guilty. In many cases, that would be a mistake. The fact is there are many challenges to a DWI. The defenses depend on the particular set of facts in each case. That means a detailed review of all evidence, including police reports, police videos, audio recordings and testing records related to blood alcohol levels is imperative. Often, hidden defenses are found through a thorough review of all evidence. The fact is that Officers must follow very specific steps as part of the arrest. If any one step is missing, the case may be dismissed.

**SOURCE CODE DEFENSES APPROVED BY MINNESOTA SUPREME COURT!!** Even more compelling, on April 30, 2009, the Minnesota Supreme Court issued a decision related computerized source codes of breath testing devices that has added a new facet to the DWI defense attorney's ability to seek a dismissal of DWI charges by suppressing any breath test results. Other points of a defense analysis include:

• Reasonable Suspicion. The officer must have reasonable suspicion to believe a specific crime has been committed in order to stop a person. If that reasonable suspicion is lacking the stop and the ticket may be invalid;

• Probable Cause to arrest and charge. The officer must make sufficient observations to form a basis for probable cause to believe that you were operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Oftentimes, officers perform field sobriety tests incorrectly making the arrest invalid;

• Procedures at the Station. The officer must follow very specific procedures at the station including reading and recording an Implied Consent Advisory that informs you that you have a right to a lawyer. If any of the steps are omitted, the charges may be dismissed;

• Test Procedures. Testing methods to determine blood alcohol concentrations are imperfect at best. Like any scientific method, any test result has a margin of error. If the machinery is not properly maintained and even if it is properly maintained, the test results may vary from true Blood Alcohol Concentration. A sufficient variation may result in a reduce charge or no charge.

When charged with a DWI offense, it is important to seek an aggressive attorney who has remained current on the developing law with respect to DWI issues. There are many practitioners who handle DWI cases without understanding many of the nuances of DWI defense.

DWI DUI What Happens In A Criminal Trail For DWI/DUI Arrest
The Anatomy of a Criminal Case and ARREST.

The person suspected of committing a criminal act is arrested.

If the target person is not immediately arrested, that doesn't mean that he or she won't be. It means that the police are continuing to investigate the incident and are trying to obtain sufficient evidence to arrest the target person.

RELEASE.

After arrest, the police can release a person O.R., on their own recognizance, in which case bail does not have to be posted.

BAIL AMOUNT.

A misdemeanor DUI bail amount is $5,000. When setting bail, the judge must assume that all of the allegations against the person in custody are true. However, bail amounts must be constitutionally reasonable.

ARGUING FOR AN O.R. RELEASE.

In urging the court to release our client O.R., we argue that our clients have strong ties to the community, that they have hired us to assist them through the process, that they are not a flight risk and will appear at each and every court appearance set.

THE POLICE WRITE A REPORT.

The police agency writes a report regarding the incident.

ATTEMPT TO PREVENT.

In the event that the target person is not immediately arrested, we can be hired at this point while the investigation is ongoing to try to attempt to prevent a criminal filing against him or her in criminal court.

THE POLICE SUBMIT THEIR REPORTS TO THE PROSECUTOR.

After the investigation into the situation is complete to their satisfaction, the police agency submits their findings to the prosecutor who is in charge of deciding whether or not to file the case against our client in criminal court. The prosecutor must keep in mind here the standard that applies to all criminal cases: CAN THEY PROVE OUR CLIENT GUILTY BEYOND A REASONABLE DOUBT? EVEN ONE JUROR WHO DOES NOT FIND THAT THE REASONABLE DOUBT STANDARD HAS BEEN MET MEANS THAT OUR CLIENT IS NOT GUILTY and a hung jury is declared.

INFORMAL PROSECUTOR OFFICE HEARING.

There are cases where we are able to convince the prosecutor to hold an informal hearing in their offices instead of filing a criminal case against our client. After an informal discussion of the event, our client is most often released with no penalty.

ARRAIGNMENT.

This is the first court appearance in all criminal cases. The discovery, or the documents in the prosecutor's possession that relate to the case is turned over to us at this proceeding.

MISDEMEANORS.

Misdemeanors are "low grade" offenses, petty theft, DUI, driving on a suspended license and possession of less than an ounce of marijuana are examples.

PRETRIAL CONFERENCE.

The pretrial conference is set about a month after arraignment. At a pretrial conference, we conference, or discuss, the case with the prosecutor. We speak to the prosecutor about the weaknesses in the prosecutor's case to amplify the reasonable doubt standard that applies to all of our clients.

DISCOVERY.

After a review of the initial documentation that the prosecutor provides to us at your arraignment, we may find that there are holes in their case that we need more information on. It is the prosecutor's duty to provide any and all information that can help our client.

There are also times when we seek information without the prosecutor's assistance directly through the agency that we believe holds the documentation that we seek: for example, subpoenas to a casino for video surveillance tapes or to a hospital for medical records.

THE PROSECUTOR'S OFFER.

The offer is an offer to settle the case short of going to trial. OUR COUNTER OFFER.

Perhaps right after the prosecutor's offer or, more likely, on a future pretrial conference court date, we make a counter offer if appropriate. In a DUI case where the breath test results are .09, .10, and the prosecutor's offer is to plead no contest to a standard DUI, we may make a counter offer for a no contest plea to a reduction to a DUI charge.

HIGHER UPS.

If the prosecutor in court is unreasonably inflexible and we feel it appropriate, we will schedule an in person or a telephone meeting.

YOUR DECISION.

At the "end of the road," you have a decision to make. WILL YOU RESOLVE THE CASE SHORT OF TRIAL THROUGH A PLEA BARGAIN OR WILL YOU GO TO TRIAL? We will guide you throughout this process.

FELONIES.

Felonies are "high grade" offenses. YOU MUST APPEAR IN COURT WITH US IF YOU ARE CHARGED WITH A FELONY. For example, in a voluntary manslaughter case, the possible state prison terms are 3, 6 and 11 years.

ENHANCEMENTS:

These are further allegations by the prosecutor that serve to increase the period of custody time above and beyond the statutory low, mid and high terms. Examples of enhancements are membership and acting in furtherance of a criminal street gang, having a prior prison term and causing great bodily injury.

EARLY DISPOSITION CONFERENCE/ PRE-PRELIMINARY HEARING.

This appearance is similar to the misdemeanor pretrial conference. We speak to the prosecutor about the weaknesses in the prosecutor's case, to amplify the reasonable doubt standard that applies to all of our clients. We speak to them about factors in mitigation, for example, a history of drug use, alcohol abuse, mental health issues, tough family situations, marital discord. We talk to the prosecutor about things that our client may have done after the triggering event, like attendance at a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center, AA, NA, CA and MA meetings, payment for any damages caused and the like.

THE PROBATION REPORT.

In felony cases, our client, usually accompanied by us, attends a probationary interview with a state probation officer. This interview includes the probation officer taking an in-depth factual inquiry which goes to the question of whether or not our client is suitable for probationary supervision. This is clearly the goal in felony cases. Most often, our client does not discuss the facts of the case with the probation officer. When we go to court after our probation interview and pick up the actual written probation report, we want to see that the probation officer whom we met with RECOMMENDS PROBATION and not state prison.

THE PROSECUTOR'S OFFER.

The prosecutor makes an offer to settle the case. This is typically the best offer that is extended by the prosecutor in a felony case before preliminary hearing (discussed below).

OUR COUNTER OFFER.

Many times in felony cases, our counter offer will include a request to reduce the charge from a felony to a misdemeanor. If the prosecutor is set on a prison offer, we may make a counter offer for a ninety day diagnostic study so that we can have another opportunity at a probation recommendation.

HIGHER UPS.

Again, if we feel it necessary and appropriate, we meet with a higher up prosecutor to see if we can get a better offer extended.

PRELIMINARY HEARING.

In situations where circumstances prevent resolving the matter early, we proceed to preliminary hearing. Preliminary hearing is a long proceeding wherein the prosecutor calls witnesses to testify in court about the event. AT THIS PROCEEDING, THE ACTUAL COMPLAINING WITNESSES DO NOT NEED TO APPEAR TO TESTIFY. Under Proposition 115, the prosecutor only needs to call the police officers who investigated the event to testify. However, at the actual trial, the complaining witnesses themselves need to come into court and testify.

THE JUDGE'S DECISION.

At the end of the preliminary hearing, the judge makes a determination as to whether or not there is enough evidence to hold our client to answer to any or all of the charges against him or her. The standard of proof at a preliminary hearing is not beyond a reasonable doubt. The prosecutor must show instead that there is a STRONG SUSPICION that our client is the person who committed a crime or crimes. We fight at every twist and turn during preliminary hearing. If the judge does not believe that the strong suspicion standard is met, the matter will be DISMISSED. If the case is dismissed, the prosecutor has the option to re-file the case against you or to drop the case entirely.

MOTION TO REDUCE.

During argument after preliminary hearing, if appropriate, we can make a motion under Penal Code section 17(b) to reduce the charge or charges from felonies to misdemeanors.

ARRAIGNMENT.

If the judge finds that a strong suspicion does exist and our client is held to answer after preliminary hearing, he or she will set the matter for another arraignment. Again, we typically plead "NOT GUILTY" at this appearance.

PRETRIAL CONFERENCE.

Then the matter proceeds to pretrial conference. The same applies here that has been discussed above and again, there may be several pretrial conferences before trial.

YOUR DECISION.

At the "end of the road," when we have gone absolutely as far as we can in your defense, the discovery process is complete and the prosecutor has extended its best offer, you have a decision to make. WILL YOU RESOLVE THE CASE SHORT OF TRIAL THROUGH A PLEA BARGAIN OR WILL YOU GO TO TRIAL? We will guide you throughout this process and be very straight and honest with you in terms of the likelihood of success at trial and our opinion as to the best course of action based upon all of the facts and circumstances at hand.

TRIAL.

There are two types of trial, a court trial and a jury trial. YOU HAVE THE CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT TO GO TO TRIAL. This is true in both misdemeanor and felony cases. A court trial is a trial where the only decision maker is the judge: the judge listens to all of the evidence and decides if there is proof to show your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. A jury trial is where twelve members of the community are selected to listen to all of the evidence and to decide guilt or innocence.

NOT GUILTY.

This is obviously what we want to hear the clerk of the court pronounce when reading the verdict forms at the end of trial. The case is then DISMISSED and our client is DISCHARGED.

GUILTY/SENTENCING.

After this pronouncement, either our client is sentenced immediately or a date is set in the future for sentencing. If there is no legal cause why judgment should not be pronounced, the judge imposes sentence, either probation with terms and conditions or state prison.

APPEAL.

This is a plea to a higher court, the Court of Appeal, to overturn the conviction and/or sentence of the lower court, the trial court. An appeal is a lengthy, labor-intensive process and we can be hired separately for the handling of an appeal.

NOTES.

1 We cannot and will not guarantee any particular result in a criminal case. The following outline is for informational purposes so that you understand the generalities of the structures and proceedings that we see every day in our practice of criminal defense law.

2 An example of such a rare case: our client is only charged with a first offense DUI when we know that he or she actually has three prior DUIs within the relevant ten year time period.

3 There are certain exceptions to this: for example, for an arraignment on a domestic violence case, our client must appear with us. And there are times when the judge orders that you are present for some hearings.

4 There is a document called a WAIVER OF PERSONAL APPEARANCE under Penal Code section 977B which is applicable in felony cases and we can in certain circumstances ask the judge to allow us to appear in court for you. This waiver has limitations, though, and even if the judge allows the waiver, you must appear for your arraignment and all other significant court appearances like the preliminary hearing, the taking of a plea and other proceedings during which someone testifies under oath.

LET US PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS!

Get the Best Criminal Defense and Secure Your Future
How much do you know about your dwi/dui arrest? Did you know that dwi stands for driving while intoxicated, and dui stands for driving under the influence? You will find that many states use these terms interchangeably depending on the case. But what is also different between the states is how they define these offenses and how they measure or define legal intoxication and impairment. And this is why it is important to not only learn more about it for your own sake but also find an attorney that knows the best way to defend you.

In the state of minnesota there are many different avenues that must be proven in order to get a conviction. For instance, one of these avenues has to do with the initial stop by the arresting officer. In order for the prosecution to convict you of dwi they would have to prove that your normal state was changed by the substance you took. In other words, they have to prove that the alcohol or drugs you were taking changed the normal way you went about things like driving. This is where the roadside test comes in to help the state prove their case. And this is where an experienced mineapolis, mn attorney can help you contest the charges.

But there is a lot more to a case than this. When it comes to cases such as these you will find that there are many twists and turns that must be analyzed by both sides of the courtroom. From the blood alcohol levels to the very tests that showed what these were, only an experienced lawyer can make the differences between jail time and walking away from all charges. In fact, while many may think that it is like any other charge out there they would be surprised at just how complicated these cases can get.

Did the arresting officer have probable cause to stop you in the first place? Did that officer have probable cause to arrest you? Were you read your Miranda rights before your arrest? All of these questions must be answered and proven in order for your case to be decided. And only through a strong criminal defense will you be able to have a better future. But if you have decided to go with the cheaper law firm you may find that you will pay for your mistakes for many years to come.

When you get convicted of a dwi that conviction will follow you for many years. For instance, did you know that you will have much higher insurance premiums to pay for quite a few years after? Also, did you know that you will not be able to travel to Canada if you have such a conviction on your record? These are just a few of the results of being convicted of dui/dwi, and there are many more as well. Don't make the mistake of thinking any lawyer will do. Make sure you hire a law firm that has experience in these types of cases and you may find that you are not as bad off as you might have been.

DWI Arrest information and your rights

DWI is known by many different names and abbreviations. DWI is Driving While Intoxicated, DUI - Driving Under Influence, OUI - Operating under Influence, Drunk Driving and so on. DWI is governed by State Laws. Therefore, terminology differs from State to State. In this article we will specifically discuss laws and punishments related to DWI arrest, your rights if you are charged with DWI and how to get yourself a competent DWI Defense Attorney.

To start with - DWI is a very very serious offense. An alarming number of Americans lose lives every year because of drunk drivers. The DWI Laws are very strict and if you are arrested with DWI charges, it can damage the rest of your life in a big way. DWI arrest can have very serious consequences. A bad police record is something you will have to live with if convicted. If not convicted you end up spending thousands of dollars over various things including DWI attorney fee. Either way there is bound to be criminal waste of countless number of hours visiting police station, meeting up with your Probationary Officer from time to time, volunteering community service, attending alcohol education classes, filling up forms at various stages and what not.. the ordeal is tiring, sometimes meaningless and humiliating. When you are caught under DWI suspicion, you are taken to the jail by the officer who has made the arrest and until you are allowed to make a call and your DWI attorney releases you on bail, you are actually in the jail cell (sharing the cell with one more criminal) in clothes provided by the jail, eating jail food, sleeping on hard jail matress. It traumatizes the person arrested under DWI. Immediately after DWI arrest you lose your right to drive, unless court grants you Occupational License, which comes with conditions such as observing speed limits and driving in limited areas etc. All this, if you get Occupational License. If you don't there is no issue. No driving your kids to school, or your parents to the nearby hospital. Immobility breaks your back. How will you drive to your job? There are instances when people have lost their jobs as a result of their DWI arrest. There are countries that don't allow people with DWI records against them.

Coming to your rights, as you are arrested under DWI charges, the first thing is to make sure the officer has not followed you to your destination/home without you being informed of it. You have a right to know your rights under the circumstances by the police officer arresting you. It is not your right to refuse BAC Test. If you do, your license may be suspended. Later on if it is found that your faculties were not impaired, your case will be dismissed but the status of your license will not change as you refused to co-operate with the arresting officer. You have a right to hire an attorney to fight your DWI case. Which brings us to our third point. How to find a competent DWI attorney.

First thing, if you are arrested under DWI - don't try to be your own attorney. Let a qualified professional handle it. Try to look for an attorney who practices only DWI cases and belongs to the same state where the DWI arrest has happened. Check out the website of your attorney if he has any. Check out his past DWI records. Talk to people whose cases this DWI attorney has handled. If DWI is one of the areas of your DWI attorney's practice, it is less likely that he will be aware of every aspect related to DWI. Where as if you choose your DWI attorney who practices say Austin DWI cases exclusively, he will approach and handle the DWI arrest much better. Start the process of looking for a DWI attorney fast as you have only 15 days to get one after your arrest. The whole DWI arrest process can take anywhere form 6 months to 3 years. Once the case is over you will have to pay an yearly fee of $1000 for next three years to up keep your driving license.

One can save oneself from all this torture torture by always driving sober.Once you are arrested under DWI charges, there is nothing you can do. No excuses work. No short cuts, no second chance. Let's better be sober than sorry!

How to deal with DWI Austin arrest?

If you are facing DWI Austin arrest or similar charges in other county or state, what you need to understand and realize is that you have got yourself into a very serious problem. DWI Austin arrest in a long wound legal procedure which costs time, money, energy, loss of face and sometimes job. It has life lasting effects.

The DWI arrest invariably leaves the DWI Austin victim with a sour feeling that this was one drink that he could have so easily done without! How true but too late... now that you're facing DWI charges, you'd rather deal with it. One thing about DWI Austin Arrest is that you cannot undo it. No matter what you do, if you are arrested by Law Enforcement Team or Patrolling Police under DWI Austin you have to face the consequences.

DWI Austin Laws - An overview: As far as DWI Austin Laws are concerned they are very strict and getting stricter by the day. Impaired driving has cost Austin many innocent lives. Vigourous patrolling during the peak hours is a norm. There are checkpoints now where the patrolling team stops all vehicles to check the status of driver's mental and physical faculties. There is another side to this. If you think you are drunk beyond the permissible BAC limits, there is a facility of hiring a driver who will drive you home in your own car. You are free to choose this option if you need the car to drive to office the next day

How does DWI Austin arrest happen? DWI Austin or Driving While Intoxicated in Austin is not an easy job for the patrolling police also. They are given a set of guidelines which they have to adhere to. They are trained professionals doing their job. So if they stop you on DWI suspicion, it means they have enough proof for doing so. Either someone called them (not an anonymous caller) or you have been under observation for at least half an hour and that they have been observing your behavior and mannerisms.

On what grounds can you be arrested under DWI Austin Charges? If after various roadside tests or tests done at the police station your Blood Alcohol Content Level is found above 0.08 you will be arrested. this is the point where things begin to get real complicated. And if you refuse to take these tests your driving license is suspended immediately. Either way trouble brews.

On what grounds can you challenge your DWI Austin Arrest? The police that arrested you under DWI Austin charges can be challenged on many grounds by a competent DWI Austin attorney. so make sure you hire the right people. e.g. The police cannot follow you home secretly without informing you. If they've done it, you can tell this to your attorney and he will deal with it. Likewise these tests are not scientific and accurate - and the DWI Austin attorney is aware of all aspects of it to question the court during hearing.

Did the police making arrest inform you about your rights as a citizen?
Were the tests done in accordance with the Standardized NHTSA guidelines?
Were the conditions proper?
Were your physical disability (if any), age, psychological conditions, weight given due attention while DWI tests were performed on you?

Hiring a competitive DWI Austin attorney: Don't try to be your own attorney if you are not qualified. Let a professional do his job. A DWI Attorney Specialist firm will ideally comprise Attorneys, Paralegals, investigator, outside forensic toxicologist, an outside evaluation group. The investigator is ideally a retired officer who has past experience of handling DWI cases at various levels.

DWI Austin Arrest cost: At least 6 months of worries and approximately $8500 expense. This includes attorney's fee, additional insurance, surcharges, Applying for temporary license etc. Hiring an attorney, appearing in court, not being able to drive, a bad police record, etc are things that you cannot convert in money and the stress and inconvenience it can cause immeasurable trauma.

DWI Austin charges are something you can do without. If you are drunk don't take a risk of driving home or wherever. You'd rather hire a driver or a cab NOW than hire an attorney LATER!

How to Hire Austin DWI Attorney? What are Austin DWI Laws

Fist things first. Getting caught under Austin DWI i.e. Driving While Intoxicated in Austin or Texas State can have life altering consequences. There are many types of legal charges when it comes to driving. But the most dangerous of them all, DWI Austin can be the worst that you can charged with.

If you are arrested under Austin DWI charges, your immediate worry should be to hire an Austin DWI Attorney. A qualified, competent and experienced Austin DWI Attorney. Preferably an Austin DWI Attorney firm. A firm consists of a team of qualified people needed at various stages of the trial. You should also make sure that you hire a firm that exclusively deals in DWI cases & trial, that too in Austin, Texas. Such a firm will have better insight into the legal procedures and workings of the court. Since these Austin DWI attorneys are dealing with the judges all the time, they are better equipped to plan their move.

According to Austin DWI Laws, DWI is a criminal offense. DWI Austin charges carry administrative penalties. According to Austin DWI Law if your breath, blood and urine tests show alcohol content of more than 0.08% then you will be arrested under Austin DWI laws. Its a class-B misdemeanor. Having alcohol or drug or any type of controlled substance in body that results into loss of normal use of mental or physical faculties is considered intoxication. Intoxication does not limit to alcohol alone.

The minimum jail time as per Austin DWI Laws in 72 hours. But if you were caught with an open container of alcohol in the vehicle that you were driving your jail time can go upt o 6 days. Apart from jail time, as per Austin DWI Laws your driving license can also be suspended for 90 days to one year. Even if the person charged with DWI Austin is not convicted, the positive results of breath, blood and urine are enough reasons for his/her driving license suspension.

Besides the above, as per Austin DWI Laws, for a person arrested under DWI charges it is mandatory to attend educational programs related to drunk driving. If he/she fails to do it within the time frame prescribed, it can result into losing driving license. A subsequent DWI conviction results in driver's license suspension for another 18 months. To get the license back after completing the suspension period, the person must pay $100. Your driver's license can also be suspended if you refuse to take the Road-Side tests suggested by officer. Apart from this your insurance cost will also go up.

How can Hiring an Austin DWI Attorney help? Well, he knows the law, he knows the rules and he knows the way out. He can challenge the way the test is performed. The machines on which the tests were done. The Austin DWI Attorney cam also challenge the qualification of the person operating these machine. He can take the blood and urine samples and get them tested in a private lab to verify the tests. Austin DWI Attorney can challenge the grounds on which police made the arrest. He can challenge the accuracy of the machine, timing of the tests and so on.

Austin DWI Attorney can help provided you hire the right person at the right time. If in the beginning without realizing the importance of the case you try to fight it yourself, there is a chance that you will complicate it and make it that much more difficult for your Attorney. So the timing is very important. Hiring the right Austin DWI Attorney means a qualified and experienced team Austin DWI Lawyers. Someone whose exclusive area of practice is DWI Austin.

You must understand that Austin DWI can result in loss of job also under some circumstances. Sometimes you are not allowed to visit other countries if you have such a police record. Your mobility is restricted anyway by your driver's License being suspended. All this coming together can be very torturous. Best is not to drive drunk. Next if you do and are caught look for a lawyer so that the outocme can be the best taht it can be.

Texas DWI Defense Attorneys Assist Texas Residents in DWI Cases
2004 saw nearly 100,000 drunk-driving arrests in the state of Texas "basically, one for every 230 Texas residents. Although operating a vehicle while under the influence is certainly a grave offense, everyone deserves legal defense under the law, and no one should pay time or money for a crime they didn't commit.

Although the legal limit in Texas is 0.08 BAC (blood alcohol content), drivers can still be pulled over for DWI even if their BAC falls within the legal limit if their driving appears to be impaired by drugs or alcohol. In the event that you find yourself pulled over for driving while intoxicated, the roadside breath test is voluntary, and it is never in your best interest to submit to a roadside breathalyzer test; if you submitted to the breath test, however, fret not there are several legitimate defenses that can be used to impugn the results of a roadside breath test.

The same goes for breath, blood, or alcohol tests after booking. Never submit to an alcohol test of any kind until you've spoken with an attorney qualified to mount a DWI defense in the state of Texas.

The most important thing to remember is this: never, ever admit to guilt or discuss the case until you've spoken with a qualified DWI attorney. The primary aim of a DWI defense attorney is to get the charges dropped; if that proves impossible, the secondary goal is to find a way for you to retain your driver's license your lifeline to gainful employment. Both of these goals can be jeopardized by admitting guilt, submitting to alcohol test, or spending time discussing the charges with arresting or booking officers.

Daniel Wannamaker is a board certified criminal law specialist and has 24 years of criminal trial experience with proven results as a Dallas criminal defense lawyer practicing in Austin criminal defense and Houston Texas.

What is a Criminal Lawyer?
In law there are two basic types of off lawsuits: criminal and civil. Civil lawsuits are lawsuits between two private parties, often two people. Criminal lawsuits are lawsuits brought by the state or federal government against an individual or group. Civil cases are initiated by the victim, and criminal cases are initiated by the government through a prosecutor. Criminal lawyers are those who defend the plaintiff in criminal lawsuits.

What Criminal Lawyers Do

Criminal lawyers represent their clients in lawsuits that are initiated by the government. Their clients are individuals or groups who have been accused of acts that are crimes of some sort. It could be a misdemeanor, which is a less serious crime like drunk driving, or it could be a felony, which is a serious crime like murder that could end in jail time or even the death penalty. Many people think of felonies when they think of criminal lawyers, but criminal lawyers also represent plaintiffs who are facing misdemeanor charges.

Criminal Lawyers Early in a Defense

Many people who are being charged with a crime wait to hire a lawyer. Perhaps they think the charges will be dropped, or maybe they think that the potential punishment does not warrant the cost of hiring a lawyer. They may think they can represent themselves in an attempt to save money. Whatever the reason, this is a dangerous idea, because criminal lawyers can often be of the most help early in the process.

One way that a lawyer can help is by negotiating a dismissal of the case. Lawyers know how to spot potential weaknesses in the prosecutor's defense. Sometimes by presenting these weaknesses to the prosecuting attorney, they can help to negotiate a dismissal of the charge before the charges are officially filed.

A lawyer can also help a plaintiff by helping to negotiate a plea bargain. This involves an admission of guilt in return for a lessening of the potential consequences and an avoidance of the courtroom appearance. Many people charged with misdemeanors can avoid much of the expense of a court case by plea-bargaining.

Plaintiffs who are involved in crimes that are part of an ongoing investigation can use a criminal lawyer to help negotiate a lesser sentence in return for cooperation in the investigation. For instance, if a plaintiff knows information about another aspect of the crime that could help the prosecutors capture a high-profile criminal, the prosecutor may be willing to drop some charges in return for that information. A lawyer knows how to approach the police or the prosecutor to present this proposition.

Tips for Working with a Criminal Lawyer

If you are in a position where you need the services of a criminal lawyer, you need to work with your lawyer to ensure that your defense goes as smoothly as possible. Even if you are just facing minor charges, your lawyer is the only person who can help lower those charges and save you thousands of dollars and protect certain freedoms that you could lose with a "guilty" conviction.

No matter what, do not discuss your case with anyone other than your lawyer. Anything that you say about your case outside of your lawyer's office could be repeated in the courtroom. Your lawyer operates under "attorney-client privilege," which means that he cannot be forced to share with anyone what you tell him in confidence. Other people in your life do not have this protection.

Be honest and upfront with your lawyer. He cannot help you if you do not tell him exactly what happened, even if it makes you look bad. Answer all questions, and let your lawyer lead the defense. He knows how to best present the information so that you are honest, yet appear as guilt-free as possible to the jury or judge. Remember, your attorney is on your side, so treat him and his staff with respect as you work through your case.

Personal Injury: Preparing for an Initial Consultation with an Attorney
The decision of hiring a personal injury lawyers is a very important and big one for anyone to make. After going through the various personal injury lawyers in and around your area, you may have reached a point where you would probably like to arrange a personal consultation with a lawyer. When you have reached the decision of meeting the personal injury lawyer for the initial consultation, be very sure that you are fully ready and well prepared for the meeting.

Here in this article, you can get some are good advice with tips which you can consider when you are into the process of preparing for an initial consultation with a personal injury lawyer. They are tried and tested and have been made use of by many people who have taken the services of personal injury lawyers in the past. This experience will be very helpful for you.

One can say the most important step that you need is to prepare a very detailed outline of the facts of your case as per your understanding before you go for the first consultation with the personal injury lawyer. It is not needed for you to include your personal legal theories in such the sketch you have drawn out for your case. Remember it is the job of the lawyer to make the final analysis. For the lawyer to know that you have the basic clarity and understanding of the case you have to put down the important facts as accurately as possible in the document you are preparing for the initial consultation. As a result, you should be as objective as possible when it comes to a presenting the facts of your situation or case.

It will also be a good idea to write down a list of questions you will like to ask the lawyers during an initial consultation. It is very and absolutely essential to know the background of the attorney with whom you are planning to discuss your case. By checking out on all the lawyers you should shortlist the lawyers for you meeting. This is not only the educational background, but you should also get the information about his or her career and experience.

To add to that you should make it a point to question the lawyer specifically about his or her experience as far as an issue relating to your own case is concerned. The best possible scenario will be, if by chance you are able to find a lawyer, who has during the course of his work done a case which is very similar to your own case, as then he will be able to give you a very good representation.