California has some of America's strictest driving under the influence (DUI) laws. Even for a first-offense conviction, you can face up to $2,000 in fines and assessments, plus months of license suspension and jail time. While an officer can charge you with DUI if a...
From A Former Prosecutor
Drunk Driving
What are standardized field sobriety tests?
If the police suspect you of drunk driving, then may ask you to do a field sobriety test. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration uses these tests to evaluate the safety of drivers. There are several tests you may be asked to do. They include: 1. Horizontal...
Drunk driving with a child in the car leads to enhanced penalties
You may have heard the widespread myth that incurring a first-time driving while under the influence (DUI) conviction is “no big deal.” And perhaps, to people who grew up in tough areas, incurring up to $1,000 in fines, mandatory DUI school, 3-to-5 years of probation,...
Field sobriety tests have a commonly overlooked flaw
If you’re pulled over by police under the suspicion of drunk driving you may be asked to do a breath test to evaluate a driver's blood-alcohol concentration level. Alternatively, they may ask the driver to do a series of evaluations typically called standardized field...
DUIs and international travel: What you need to know
A DUI conviction can impact your life in many ways. Something you may not realize is that this conviction may limit where you can travel. Some countries won’t allow you to enter for up to 10 years after receiving the conviction. Knowing the rules will help you see...
4 types of field sobriety tests
Police officers are equipped with several tools to deal with drivers who may have been drinking or using a substance. Most police will use a breathalyzer to determine if someone will be charged with driving under the influence (DUI). Officers may also decide to use a...
Can you challenge a breath alcohol test?
Don’t make the mistake of assuming that you can never challenge a breath alcohol test. Far too many people believe that having a breath test say that they are over the legal limit (0.08% in blood alcohol concentration) means that they are essentially out of options....
Can coffee make you sober?
If you've been drinking and you want to get sober so that you can drive home, you may decide to order a cup of coffee. People often say that a nice cup of coffee can make you feel sober, so they'll recommend it as a tactic for driving home safely and avoiding a DUI....
How long does it take a DUI to come off your driving record?
An arrest on DUI charges in California can affect your life in many ways. You will almost certainly feel embarrassed by your actions and the arrest. It is also highly probable that the incident will result in financial hardships as well as personal ones. If it is not...
What should you expect from a DUI arrest in California?
If you live in California and are accused of a DUI, you should know that you could face significant penalties and consequences. California’s DUI laws state that all motorists are prohibited from driving while impaired by drugs or alcohol. You may not drive with a...