Los Angeles Criminal Attorney Blog

Between August 20 and September 6, states across the country are joining forces to crack down on drunk driving in an initiative called “Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest” according to the Governors Highway Safety Association.

Driving drunk in California (defined as having a blood alcohol concentration level of .08 or higher) is illegal and the same goes for the rest of the nation. Drunk driving patrols will be on high alert and laws will be strictly enforced over the holiday weekend, a time in which drunk driving is typically on the rise. Law enforcement is expected to be looking out for driving practices that they believe a drunk driver would display, such as lane changes without the use of turn signal, swerving, speeding, and others.

In California, the California Highway Patrol and local agencies are operating the California Avoid DUI campaign between now and September 6. As part of the campaign, law enforcement will be operating 200 DUI checkpoints, roving DUI saturation patrols, and many multi-agency DUI task force operations. Also, warrant and probation sweeps will be targeting repeat offenders. Law enforcement will also run sting operations to find DUI suspects who disobey court orders against driving. Over 450 California agencies will be taking part in the operation.

The consequences of a drunk driving conviction can be serious, making a wrongful conviction all the more devastating. DUIs can be detrimental to careers and families for years to come. If you or a loved one has received a Los Angeles DUI, don’t delay any longer in contacting an experienced Los Angeles DUI attorney who can help you protect your rights. The team at the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf has extensive experience in helping individuals navigate the legal consequences of receiving a DUI. Contact our team today at 866-390-7373 for a free consultation.

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Some professionals need to report DUI arrests or convictions to licensing boards by law.

The FAA requires pilots to send a Notification Letter within 60 days of any alcohol related conviction or administrative action. A separate Notification Letter is required for each alcohol related event. For example, separate Notification Letters would be required for a driver’s license suspension and a subsequent DUI conviction. Click here to learn more about the FAA’s requirements for alcohol reporting for pilots.

Attorneys are required to self-report felony indictments, felony or misdemeanor charges or convictions, guilty verdicts, guilty pleas and no contest pleas through the California Bar Association.

Upon renewal of a registered nurse license, nurses are required to report if they have been convicted of any crime since the last renewal date. Traffic violations that resulted in fines of over $300 and a traffic ticket must also be reported. Failure to disclose this information could be grounds for disciplinary action.

Any applicant for Coast Guard credentials is required to report all criminal convictions. They also search for driving records, and take all information into account when deciding whether to issue the credentials.

Continue reading "Issues that Arise from a DUI for Certain Professionals" »

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Many tourists visit California each year from other states. Some percentage of these tourists inevitably end up receiving a DUI while visiting California. Many think that because they aren’t residents of California, nothing will happen to them as an out of state driver receiving a California DUI.

The procedures surrounding a California DUI are the same for both residents and non-residents of California, except that the California DMV does not have the right to take driver’s licenses issued by another state. Following a DUI arrest, the DMV will hold a hearing, just as it is done for a resident. The non-resident is not required to attend the hearing but can have a California attorney attend in his or her place.

Following the hearing, the DMV may suspend the individual’s driving privileges in California. California will then notify the individual’s state of residence of the California DUI, and that state may take action against the individual’s license. Non-residents of California may be required to fulfill all the requirements to get their California driving privileges restored, even if they never intend to drive in California again. This is because the non-resident may be required to meet those requirements under the law of his or her state to get driving privileges restored. In addition, a DUI in many states will count as a prior offense for the purposes of determining punishment for a California DUI.

Out of state drivers are also required to participate in any criminal proceedings, or to hire a California drunk driving attorney to attend on their behalf.

Are you an out of state driver who was charged with a California DUI? Hire an experienced California driving under the influence attorney to help with your case. A DUI in California can result in both criminal punishments in California as well as a possible loss of driving privileges in your home state. Call the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf today at 877-390-7373 for a free consultation.

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There are numerous defenses that can be used in court to defend against a DUI charge, even if a defendant’s BAC was over the legal limit. First of all, the police officer who pulled you over must have a legal reason to do so. If not, the original stop could be challenged and the evidence against you thrown out. Was there a reason to detain you for DUI? If not, the case could be challenged.

Another important point is that field sobriety tests are extremely subjective. Were they performed in accordance with federal guidelines? Many police officers are not experienced in administering the tests properly. Were the proper tests performed?

People who are placed under arrest are required to be advised of their rights, which are known as Miranda rights. If you are not advised of your Miranda rights, the case could be thrown out.

If you took a chemical test, and you were found to have a California blood alcohol content of over .08%, you may assume you do not have a valid defense. However, was the test properly administered? Was the equipment functioning properly at the time of the test? Was the evidence handled in accordance with correct evidentiary procedures? Do you have a medical condition that could affect a breath test? In addition, if you are stopped for a DUI soon after drinking and are given a chemical test 30 minutes or an hour later, your blood alcohol level would be higher than it was when you were originally stopped. This is called a “rising blood alcohol defense”.

There are numerous defenses a skilled DUI attorney in Los Angeles, California can raise, even if your BAC was found to be over the legal limit. If you or someone you know has been charged with a DUI in California, contact a skilled DUI team of attorneys today. Contact the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf at 877-390-7373 for a free consultation.

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Many people who have been charged with a DUI in California consider pleading guilty, especially if they performed poorly on field sobriety tests or failed a chemical test measuring blood alcohol content. They receive a .08 or higher BAC reading and don’t see the point in fighting the charge and instead view the case as a “slam dunk” against them.

However, if you plead guilty, you are losing any right to present a defense in a criminal trial. In addition, a DUI guilty plea in California can have a negative impact on your driving record or any professional license.

Just because you failed a chemical test and had a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher does not mean that you should write-off doing everything possible to have your rights defended. There are many factors to take into account that could result in a potential to plea bargain to a lesser offense or having your case being dismissed. Pleading guilty means losing the opportunity to challenge any problems in the prosecution’s case.

In many cases, a DUI in Los Angeles is an individual’s first criminal charge, and he or she is horrified at the prospect of a criminal record. If you have been charged with a DUI, you should consult a qualified, experienced Los Angeles DUI attorney who can advise you of your rights before making any big decisions on your DUI case. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf have represented many defendants in DUI cases and are extremely caring, knowledgeable and experienced with all aspects of DUI cases. We stay up to date on the complex and ever-changing DUI laws. Call us today for a free consultation at 866-390-7373.

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In addition to the loss of driving privileges that can result from a DUI, California criminal penalties can be imposed as well. It is a crime to either drive a vehicle in California if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or to operate a vehicle if your blood alcohol content is over .08 percent. You can be charged with a violation of either or both of those crimes if you drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

A DUI in California is typically a misdemeanor. A felony DUI can involve possible jail time. A DUI becomes a felony if it involves injury to another person, it’s the fourth (or higher) DUI conviction in the past 10 years, or if there are prior felony convictions involving drinking while intoxicated. The amount of jail time depends on a lot of factors, including your driving record, your BAC, whether injuries to people or property occurred, and who your judge is.

The penalties involved depend greatly on whether this is your first DUI conviction or a subsequent conviction. A first conviction of a misdemeanor DUI usually results in alcohol education classes, a driver’s licenses suspension, a fine, probation, and / or two days in jail. The penalties go up from there for subsequent DUI convictions within a 10 year period.

No one wants a criminal record. If you have been charged with a DUI, you have rights. You need an experienced California DUI attorney to explore all possible defenses. If you or someone you know has been charged with a DUI, contact the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf today at 866-390-7373 for a free consultation.

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The civil penalties for a DUI in California vary, depending on several factors. Your driver’s license can be suspended or revoked for a certain period of time. If you are older than 21, and you took a blood, breath, or urine test, and the test showed a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of .08% or higher, your license will be suspended. If it is a first offense, your license will be suspended for four months. For a second or subsequent offense within 10 years, your license will be suspended for a year. If you are under 21 and your BAC was .01% or more, your license will be suspended for a year.

According to the Department of Motor Vehicles, if you refused to take a blood, breath or urine test after being requested to do so by a police officer, the first offense will result in a one-year suspension of your license. A second offense within 10 years will require a two year suspension, and a third or subsequent offense will result in a three year suspension.

It is possible to receive a restricted license to travel to and from work and a DUI treatment program. It requires you to show proof of enrollment in a California DUI treatment program, proof of financial responsibility and a fine.

No one wants to have a DUI or a suspended or revoked license on his or her driving record. The aggressive criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf can help you in dealing with not only the criminal penalties involved in a DUI, but also the DMV penalties as well. Contact a California DUI attorney today to learn more about protecting your rights by calling 866-390-7373.

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The California DUI legal process is complex. There are two separate legal actions involved with a DUI charge in California. One is the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. The second is any potential criminal charges.

Once you are arrested for driving under the influence in California, a police officer will confiscate your driver’s license and will complete a license suspension or revocation form and forward that to the DMV. The DMV will then conduct a review where it examines the officer’s report, the suspension or revocation order, and test results. The DMV then decides whether to uphold the driver’s license suspension or revocation. You have the right to request a hearing to protest the suspension or revocation within 10 days of receiving the order. At the end of the suspension or revocation period, you can get your license back by paying a fee to the DMV and providing proof of financial responsibility.

The second part of the CA DUI is the criminal case. This is where a court determines if you are guilty of a criminal act – driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The criminal case can be carried out in a mixture of ways, including a guilty plea, a plea bargain, getting the charges dismissed, and proceeding to trial. If you are acquitted in the criminal trial, the license suspension or revocation will be reversed by the DMV.

A California DUI conviction or arrest can be serious. You need a law firm that is experienced at fighting DUI charges and dedicated to its clients. Call the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf today. Our knowledgeable Los Angeles DUI attorneys are waiting to help. For a free consultation, contact us at 866-390-7373.

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DUIs are one of the most common criminal charges in the U.S. Once you get charged with a DUI in Los Angeles, you need to contact a DUI attorney in LA County immediately. How do you pick a DUI attorney?

Before choosing a Los Angeles DUI attorney, do your research. Utilize the Internet or yellow pages to compile a list of law firms who handle DUIs in your area. In addition, ask family and friends for any recommendations. Call each firm to see which individual attorney handles the DUIs. After making the list, check with the state bar association to see if that attorney has any complaints or disciplinary actions outstanding. Check websites like avvo.com to see if each attorney has any feedback from clients. Visit each attorney’s website. Does the attorney represent clients in a wide variety of cases, in addition to DUIs? If so, he or she may not keep up to date on changes in the law as they occur; however, this may not always be the case.

Once you have narrowed down the list of potential attorneys, call each attorney to discuss your case. Have a list of questions prepared in advance. In addition to your questions, find out what specialized DUI training the attorney received. How many DUI trials has the attorney handled? What is the typical outcome?

At your meeting with each attorney, determine who makes you feel the most comfortable. Does the attorney seem eager to help? Does the attorney inspire confidence in his or her abilities? Does the attorney seem knowledgeable about the subject matter? Is the attorney really listening to you?

If you are in search of a caring, knowledgeable and aggressive DUI attorney in Los Angeles, contact the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf. Our attorneys have worked on a wide variety of DUI cases and would love to speak with you about your case. Call us today for a free consultation at 866-390-7373.

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If you are pulled over in California and you have been drinking, it is important to know how to proceed once stopped for DUI. First of all, pull over safely to the side of the road. Be polite to the police officer. If the police officer asks you questions, it’s fine to say that you would like to speak with an attorney. You may also wish to explain that you had one or two drinks, which would not typically cause intoxication, in order to explain a beer or alcohol smell; however, this is not completely necessary.

The police officer may wish to administer field sobriety tests. These include standing on one leg, walking heel to toe, stating the alphabet, and following a penlight with your eyes, among others. You are not legally required to submit to field sobriety tests. Doing so could result in the police officer obtaining additional evidence that could be used against you.

The police may also choose to ask you to take a chemical test. Under California law, a person who is operating a motor vehicle within the state gives consent to a chemical or breath test to determine blood alcohol content. If you refuse to submit to the chemical test, your license will be revoked for one year, even if you are found not guilty of the California DUI charge. You do not have the right to consult with an attorney before being arrested.

If you are arrested or taken into custody on the suspicion of a DUI, contact an experienced LA DUI attorney immediately. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf have widespread experience in the area of California DUIs. Contact us today at 866-390-7373 for a free consultation. We can help you explore your rights in defending yourself against a DUI charge.

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Obviously, one of the best tips on avoiding DUI in Los Angeles is to never drive if you have been drinking or using prescription or illegal drugs. There are also factors to keep in mind when calculating the effect alcohol has on your body. In general, women metabolize alcohol more quickly than men. In addition, the more a person weighs, the speed in which alcohol is consumed, and the amount of food or liquids consumed while drinking greatly affect the way the body processes alcohol. In particular, foods with a higher fat content cause the body to metabolize alcohol more slowly.

Most California checkpoints looking for DUIs occur between the hours of 7 p.m. and 3 a.m. Other than checkpoints, most California DUIs are discovered either because the driver was driving erratically, speeding or breaking traffic rules. DUIs are often commonly discovered when a vehicle is pulled over for a minor infraction such as a malfunctioning tail light or an expired tag, so keep your vehicle in good working condition.

If you are pulled over, pull safely to a secure location. Always be polite. Assume that any actions you take could be recorded or observed for future use in court.

If you are arrested for drunk driving in California, you need excellent legal representation. DUIs can have a negative impact on your life for months or years into the future. You need to get in touch with a dedicated Los Angeles DUI attorney who will explore all your options and help you craft the best defense possible. Contact the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf at 866-390-7373 today for a free consultation of your DUI case.

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Drunk-driving charges have been filed against Los Angeles County’s City Administrative Officer, the top budget adviser at Los Angeles City Hall. An LA Times article reports that the suspect was arrested in Covina on March 26, 2010 while driving home from a charity event. According to the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office, the defendant had a blood alcohol of 0.15%, nearly twice the legal limit. He was initially stopped for speeding, but was ultimately arrested after failing a field sobriety test. He is presently scheduled to be arraigned on one misdemeanor count each of driving under the influence and driving while having a blood-alcohol level of higher than .08 percent.

In the State of California, a law enforcement officer must have a reason to pull a driver over. In order to arrest you for a California DUI, an officer must have credible or probable cause to do so. "Probable cause" means a sensible belief that criminal activity is or was occurring.

Therefore, in order to stop or arrest you for a California DUI, an officer must have a rational suspicion that criminal activity is or was happening. Probable cause must exist at each stage: the initial stop, the ensuing investigation, and the ultimate arrest. If you retain a Los Angeles DUI defense attorney that can prove that probable cause didn't exist during any one of these stages, your DUI charges could be reduced or dismissed, and certain evidence excluded from trial.

Continue reading "Top LA Budget Official Charged With DUI" »

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During a drunk driving checkpoint staged in Fontana, California on the weekend of May 1-2, four motorists were arrested and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. An article in The Sun mentions that police have reported that during the 7.5 hour period in which the checkpoint was in place, 1,656 vehicles passed through the checkpoint and 187 vehicles were stopped. In addition to the four DUI arrests, 153 citations were issued for other offenses, ranging from basic traffic violations to outstanding warrants.

An increasingly prevalent law enforcement practice used to detect impaired drivers is the sobriety checkpoint. An experienced San Bernardino DUI defense attorney can determine whether a sobriety checkpoint was lawfully conducted and, in instances where police did not follow proper protocol, challenge the validity of a defendant’s arrest. The U.S. Supreme Court case of Michigan Department of State Police vs. Sitz set forth the basic guidelines that now govern police in the establishment of sobriety checkpoints. If such guidelines are not followed by law enforcement officials, any evidence gathered may be suppressed.

Continue reading "DUI Checkpoint Leads to Four Arrests in Fontana" »

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A man who allegedly struck and killed a 16-year-old girl and severely injured another girl has been arrested for DUI hit-and-run. According to a Contra Costa Times report, the arrest stems from an accident that occurred in Compton, California in which two young women were allegedly struck by a Mercury Voyager driven by the suspect at 12:40 am. The driver immediately left the scene but was later apprehended by police. According to the police, the suspect appeared drunk and failed a field sobriety test.

If you are facing a hit-and-run charge accompanied by a DUI charge, it is essential that you retain a competent, experienced Los Angeles DUI attorney. Leaving the scene of an accident can be attributable to acute stress response (ASR), and is recognized as a natural survival mechanism. However, in California, leaving the scene of a car accident is a serious criminal offense with harsh potential penalties. It is important that a judge and/or jury understand the appropriate context surrounding a defendant’s flight from an accident scene.

Cases involving hit-and-run accidents while under the influence of alcohol typically consist of multiple offenses, especially where a fatality is involved. Therefore, it is essential for a person charged with these offenses to seek immediate legal representation from a quailed DUI defense lawyer. At the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf, our attorneys are able to immediately evaluate the cause(s) of the accident, the reliability of the BAC testing and reported levels, probable cause for BAC testing and a host of other issues that may arise in a DUI case. Call 1-866-390-7373 for a free consultation. Our attorneys have achieved quality results for our clients charged with DUI hit-and-run, and are available to speak with you today.

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A Long Beach man faces a gross vehicular manslaughter charge in California after his car struck and killed a person riding a bike in Carson, California. The Los Angeles sheriff’s department has reported that the suspect was intoxicated. Based on a Press-Telegram article, the incident occurred on the evening of Saturday, April 17. The victim was pronounced dead at the Long Beach Memorial Medical Center.

Gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated is one of the most severe offenses that someone who is accused of driving under the influence of alcohol can be charged with. If convicted, a defendant faces anywhere from probation to ten years in a California prison. In order for the prosecution to prove this crime in the state of California, under Penal Code section 191.5(a), they must demonstrate the following:

1. A person drove under the influence of alcohol or a drug, or the combined influence of alcohol and a drug, or drove while having a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or higher; and,


2. While driving under the influence, the person also committed either a misdemeanor or a driving infraction, or a lawful act that might cause death; and,


3. The person committed a misdemeanor or some infraction or lawful act that might cause death with gross negligence; and,


4. The defendant's grossly negligent conduct caused the death of another person.

Continue reading "Long Beach Man Faces Vehicular Manslaughter Charge" »

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Two suspects have been arrested following a crash in mid-city Los Angeles in the early hours of Monday, April 12, 2010. The first suspect allegedly crashed into a traffic signal at the corner of Western Avenue and Pico Boulevard, causing the signal apparatus to fall and hit a pedestrian. The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. Police officers believe that the driver may have been under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Toxicology results are pending.

The second suspect was arrested for an alleged carjacking at the scene of the aforementioned accident. As a woman left her car, with the keys inside, to assist the accident victim, another suspect stole the abandoned car before being apprehended only blocks from the scene. The suspect has been taken into custody, and the car returned to its owner.

If you have been charged with DUI and/or vehicular homicide, it is important to retain an experienced criminal lawyer immediately. Experienced Los Angeles DUI criminal defense attorneys can advise you of your rights and provide you with the best possible defense for your specific case.

Continue reading "DUI Suspect Hits Traffic Light, Resulting in Pedestrian Death" »

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Law enforcement officials impounded 176 vehicles but arrested only 6 impaired drivers at DUI checkpoints in five Los Angeles area cities on the weekend before St. Patrick’s Day. The overwhelming majority of vehicles recently seized at the DUI checkpoints in Whittier, El Monte, Covina, Baldwin Park and Industry were operated by people who were without a valid driver’s license but were not otherwise impaired by alcohol or narcotics.

Given the disparity between vehicle impounds and DUI arrests, DUI checkpoints have recently come under significant scrutiny from concerned citizens and legal commentators alike. Of primary concern is the fact that such checkpoints are being used for purposes other than that which is stated by law enforcement, resulting in a violation of Fourth Amendment rights.

Supporters of DUI checkpoints have argued that removing unlicensed drivers from the roads benefits public safety, even in situations where the driver is not impaired. However, critics have indicated that while the stated purpose of improving public safety is a valuable one, the actual intent of the checkpoints may be called into question given the fact that cities can potentially generate considerable income from impound fees.

It is possible to improve public safety on Los Angeles area roads without resorting to illegal searches and seizures. If you have been stopped at a DUI checkpoint, and have either been arrested, or have had your vehicle impounded, please call the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf at (866) 390-7373. Our office has been successfully challenging illegal searches and seizures for 35 years. We are here to answer your questions and guide you through this trying process. Contact our Los Angeles drunk driving defense attorneys today for a free consultation of your case.

Source Article: http://www.sgvtribune.com/news/ci_14697385

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The California Highway Patrol had extra incentive to celebrate this past New Year’s Eve, particularly since no one was killed on Los Angeles County Roads during the holiday. According to an article, the number of deaths taking place during the holiday period was down more than 33% this year compared to 2008 figures. However, while the number of deaths may have decreased, the number of DUI arrests made by the CHP rose by more than 20% from 88 arrests in 2008 to 108 arrests in 2009. In Los Angeles County as a whole, the number of DUI arrest rose from 438 instances to 527 instances.

Arrests made for driving while under the influence are plentiful year-round in Los Angeles, but inevitably increase during the holiday season at the end of each year. However, not all individuals accused of driving while under the influence in Los Angeles are in fact guilty. As with any arrest, a variety of factors need to be carefully examined to help determine whether or not an individual is truly guilty of committing crime. Many times, sobriety field tests may be improperly administered, or blood alcohol concentration (BAC) testing devices may not be properly calibrated, thus labeling otherwise innocent individuals as being guilty of wrongdoing.

Continue reading "NYE Deaths Down, But DUI Arrests Up In LA County" »

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A recent article posted on The San Diego Tribune’s website signonsandiego.com talks about driving while under the influence and the consequences associated with in-car-breath-alcohol analyzers. According to the report, a recently proposed bill would require all convicted DUI offenders nationwide to have ignition interlock devices installed in their automobiles as part of a court-ordered mandate. While installation of this device would certainly not be permanent, it would be required to be present in vehicles of convicted DUI offenders for a period of at least six months.

In California, similar legislation was created this past fall that will result in a 66-month pilot program mandating the installation of interlock devices for DUI offenders in Los Angeles, Alameda, Tulare, and Sacramento counties. Reportedly, such legislation put into effect in New Mexico drastically curbed the number of DUI fatalities by as much as 35% during the period of 2004 to 2008. Groups such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety cite drops in arrest rates and DUI-related deaths as indications that the devices are in fact serving their purpose.

Continue reading "In-Car Breathalyzer Bill Could Render Repeat DUI Offenders Immobile" »

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Along with family gatherings and gift exchanges, the holidays bring an increased police presence on city streets and highways. This heightened presence also takes the form of multiple DUI checkpoints which Los Angeles motorists have to deal with. According to a Los Angeles Times blog, the week leading up to, and including Christmas weekend, saw hundreds of individuals arrested for operating motor vehicles while under the influence. Reportedly, more than 1,400 people (a slight increase from 2008 figures) were arrested in Los Angeles for DUI during the weeklong crackdown.

DUI checkpoints are meant to help curb the number of impaired drivers that are operating motor vehicles on California’s roads and highways. However, not all individuals deemed to be under the influence are in fact guilty of such action. That is, improperly calibrated blood alcohol concentration (BAC) devices can declare false positives, law enforcement can be improperly trained to handle such equipment, and field sobriety tests may not be properly administered. With the holidays such a prime time for law enforcement to utilize DUI checkpoints, all officers involved in manning the checkpoints need to be properly trained. They must also ensure that their BAC measuring devices are functioning as they’re supposed to.

Continue reading "Holiday Cheer Leads to Holiday Lockdown with Los Angeles DUI Arrests" »

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A three-car traffic accident in Bellflower has left a 6-year-old girl and 9-year-old boy in critical condition. The children’s grandparents, who were also in the vehicle with the children, only sustained minor injuries. According to the Los Angeles Times, the traffic collision occurred on Artesia Boulevard. The vehicle that caused the crash was reportedly fleeing from police after the driver of the vehicle failed to stop at a DUI checkpoint. The three men in the fleeing vehicle, which was also reportedly stolen, left the accident scene on foot, but were later apprehended by law enforcement. The occupants of the third car involved in the crash suffered minor injuries as well.

There was no report of whether or not the individuals in the stolen car were under the influence of alcohol, or were simply worried that the traffic checkpoint would somehow reveal to authorities that the car was in fact stolen. Regardless of the situation, it is never a good idea to flee from law enforcement officials. Essentially, had the individuals simply gone through the DUI checkpoint and by chance been apprehended, they would only be facing theft charges relating to the car, and possibly DUI charges if in fact the driver was impaired while operating the vehicle. Now though, the occupants of the vehicle are responsible for an accident that led to personal injury, property damage, evading arrest, and other charges that the article may not even have touched on.

Continue reading "Car Fleeing from Bellflower DUI Checkpoint Injures Children" »

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A CNN.com story recently chronicled the ongoing legal troubles of actress Lindsay Lohan. According the article, a Beverly Hills judge just extended Lohan’s probation in order to give her more time to complete her court-ordered alcohol counseling treatment. To date, Lohan has reportedly not completed the program and her attendance has been less than satisfactory. While her defense attorney explained that Lohan’s career hindered Lohan from completing the program, the presiding judge warned that if she hears of Lohan missing any more meetings, she will sentence Lohan to jail time. Successful completion of the program was mandated based on a 2007 incident in which the actress ultimately plead guilty and no-contest to charges centering-around drunk driving incidents.

While the circumstances of this case are a general exception to the rule, with Lohan being afforded the right to complete the alcohol treatment at her relative leisure and around her busy schedule of acting and entertaining, not all individuals facing completion of such programs are given as much freedom in doing so. Alcohol counseling treatment is required for those individuals that are found guilty of driving while under the influence of either drugs or alcohol. After jail sentences have been served, mandatory alcohol counseling treatment must be sought out and completed at the attendee’s own expense. Successful completion of the program will then enable that individual to have a license suspension lifted after the court-ordered suspension time frame has been met.

In order for an individual to ensure that they are provided the best possible outcome in their DUI case, that individual’s best course of action is to retain the services of a skilled Los Angeles DUI defense attorney that will examine all circumstances surrounding the arrest. DUI arrests can be especially problematic in that field sobriety tests can be improperly administered and results from blood alcohol concentration tests can be inaccurate due to poorly calibrated devices used. Not all individuals that are accused of DUI are in fact guilty.

Continue reading "Lohan's Legal Troubles Still Not Over" »

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According to a recent Los Angeles Times article, October playoff baseball may bring out the worst in some fans. That is, Orange County officials are on high alert for individuals that choose to drink during baseball games, and then proceed to operate motor vehicles soon thereafter. The high alert comes on the heels of the death of Nick Adenhart, a promising young pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. In April 2009, the 22-year-old Adenhart and two of his friends were killed by an alleged drunk driver less than ten miles from Angel Stadium of Anaheim, where Adenhart had pitched earlier that night. In order to cut down on unnecessary traffic, the Anaheim Police Department asked all motorists not attending the Angels’ playoff game with the New York Yankees to please steer clear of the area.

While consuming alcohol at a baseball game is permitted, it is never a good idea to driving while under the influence of alcohol. An individual accused of DUI is innocent until proven guilty, which is something that the media often forgets. That is, field sobriety tests are only as accurate as the law enforcement officials that are administering them. Furthermore, breathalyzers and other devices used to determine an individual’s blood alcohol concentration need to be properly calibrated and maintained in order to ensure that test results delivered by the devices are accurate. If procedure is not followed or such devices are defective, then an individual that would otherwise be deemed innocent of driving while under the influence could be accused and arrested by law enforcement for a crime that the individual never in fact committed.

Continue reading "Baseball Booze and Driving Create Tragic Situations" »

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According to Los Angeles’s KTLA-TV channel 5, the trial of a man responsible for a drunk-driving crash that took the lives of three people will be postponed for at least six months. Such a decision was determined after the private attorney defending the 22-year-old removed himself from the case, citing inability to adequately defend his client as the basis of his necessary leave. This particular case gained notoriety in that one of the crash victims was 22-year-old Nick Adenhart, a professional baseball player of the Angels. The motorist responsible for the accident now faces 54 years to life in prison if he is convicted of all counts, which include murder in the second degree and driving with a suspended license.

The former defense attorney in this case informed the presiding judge that his client was unable to afford the fees associated with providing him with the most effective defense. That is, the accused driver’s attorney explained to the judge that experts needed to properly defend the accused man were too expensive for the defendant to afford, and even motioned that county taxpayers split the bill for the necessary experts. Though the article did not say whether or not the judge granted the motion, it’s safe to assume that the motion was denied, particularly since the defense attorney has now quit the case.

Continue reading "DUI Driver Loses Lawyer, Case Postponed" »

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Posted In: Criminal Defense , DUI Defense , Murder/Homicide , Violent Crimes

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According to a story from the Los Angeles Times, California drunk drivers that have been convicted of DUI may have to take a Breathalyzer test every time they want to drive their cars. That is, a bill proposes a new program that would place ignition-locking breath analysis systems into the automobiles of those individuals that have been convicted of driving while under the influence. Such a device would force motorists to have to pass a blood alcohol concentration test before their cars are permitted to start. The bill is currently awaiting approval from Governor Schwarzenegger, and is set to run in Los Angeles, Alameda, Sacramento, and Tulare counties.

According to the bill, the ignition-locking systems would take the place of a convicted motorist’s restricted license. Furthermore, it would be expected of motorists to pay for the installation of the devices and it creates the interesting question as to how law enforcement and probation officers would be able to enforce such a program. Ultimately, there are numerous issues that could arise that would prove the program to be relatively ineffective in curbing driving while under the influence.

For starters, a restricted license is very different than an automobile that does not start unless a breath test is passed. That is, while a restricted license will follow convicted motorists around from vehicle to vehicle, the Breathalyzer will not. All one would need to do to essentially circumvent the system would be to use another person’s car instead of their own, which begs the question as to how exactly a program such as this would prove to be successful.

Continue reading "No Driving Until You Pass Your Breath Test" »

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According to an article from examiner.com, a Los Angeles county man was recently taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence and causing an accident. The 23-year-old man is said by police to have been the cause of the accident that involved a reported four other vehicles. Though the man was not said to have been injured in the crash, a 9-year-old girl that was a passenger in the man’s car was seriously injured and died shortly after arriving at a nearby hospital for treatment. The man now faces charges including vehicular manslaughter, DUI, and child endangerment and could use the help of an experienced Los Angeles drunk driving defense attorney.

Reportedly, the man did not notice the slow down in traffic while traveling along the Northbound I-5, and swerved to avoid the vehicles in front of him but barreled into other vehicles as a result. The crash took place at 1AM in the city of Carlsbad.

Though driving under the influence and driver inattention were the main culprits in causing this tragedy, not all accidents that occur under suspicion of DUI are the same. Dangerous road conditions, faulty auto products, and other drivers that are not accused of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol can all be the primary cause of a traffic accident. Thus, it is imperative that all details of any crash are thoroughly examined to determine exactly who was at fault so that accountability can be distributed accordingly.

Continue reading "Commerce Man Pleads Not Guilty in DUI Crash" »

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Posted In: Criminal Defense , DUI Defense , Traffic Crimes , Violent Crimes

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A recent article in The Seattle Times reported on an alarming trend that can have an impact on motorists anywhere in the country, particularly Los Angeles, where commuting via passenger car is as commonplace as taking the subway is in New York. According to the article, the number of women arrested for driving under the influence nationwide rose 28.8% higher in 2007 than it was in 1998. Interestingly enough, the number of men arrested for DUI decreased 7.5% over the same time period, indicating that woman are now more likely to engage in reckless behavior than they ever have been in the past.

Based on FBI figures relating to arrests, the state of California experienced an increase as well in the number of women driving under the influence. That is, 18.8% of all DUI arrests in California in the year 2007 involved a woman driving under the influence, while, in 1997, women only accounted for 13.5% of all DUI arrests. Numerous explanations have been given as to the reason why this deadly trend is becoming more and more prevalent across the country. Some cite that women tend to drink more at home than men do, and consequently hide their drinking problems until after an accident has occurred, at which point preventative measures to help curb the problem are too late. Others cite the current economic tide as reasoning as to why women are more likely to succumb to driving while under the influence. That is, as more and more men, and women alike, lose their jobs, there is a definite increase in pressure placed upon the shoulders of women, many of whom take on the dual roles of homemaker and financial contributor towards the well-being of the family. This added pressure, unfortunately, has led to increased drinking habits on the part of women.

Continue reading "The Number of DUI-Charged Women Rising" »

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According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, both the number of DUI arrests and DUI convictions in the state of California rose during the time period of 2001-2007. In 2001, there were a total of 176,490 DUI arrests in California. In 2007, that number rose to 203,866. As far as convictions go, 2001 boasted 140,440 convictions of DUI in the state of California, while in 2007 there were 153,348 such convictions. Interestingly, while the number of overall arrests and convictions has risen over the years, the percentage of convictions in relation to arrests has actually dropped. In 2001, 80% of arrests resulted in conviction, while in 2007, 75% of arrests led to convictions.

The question then arises as to why the percentage of convictions has dropped over the years. In fact, a close examination of the data provided by the California DMV shows that the percentage of convictions did not rise during the period of 2001 to 2007, with percentages either remaining the same or decreasing over the seven year period. What has changed over the years? The way the human body absorbs alcohol? Or the effectiveness of law enforcement tests to conclude how much alcohol is present in a person’s bloodstream?

Alcohol is not digested by the human body, but instead is absorbed into the bloodstream. As blood passes through the lungs, traces of alcohol move across the lung membranes and are released into the air when a person exhales. Depending on the concentration of alcohol in the body, the amount of alcohol released during exhale will either increase or decrease, and is representative of how high a person’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is.

Law enforcement officials use a variety of tests to determine whether or not a person has a BAC higher than the legal limit. From simple tests of observation involving agility, balance, and perception, to more complicated tests incorporating the use of devices, such as breathalyzers and intoxilyzers, law enforcement is always evolving its ways in which to tell whether or not a person is under the influence of alcohol.

Continue reading "California DUI Arrests Rise, Yet Percent Convicted Drops" »

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According to an article posted on howstuffworks.com, law enforcement officers rely on a variety of tactics and devices to reasonably determine whether or not a person is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Some of the most effective methods of this determination involve devices used to measure blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level. Breathalyzers, Intoxilyzers, and Alcosensor III or IV are the three major devices that are used to determine BAC levels.

Breathalyzers are the most commonly talked about type of test. This type of test relies on a chemical reaction involving alcohol to determine whether or not a person has a BAC above the legal limit. During the test, a person blows into a device. A silver nitrate catalyst then separates alcohol traces from one’s breath, and that alcohol then interacts with reddish-brown potassium dichromate to form a green chromium ion, an indication that alcohol is indeed present in the system of the person being tested. The substance is then compared against a sample ion, an indicator needle is activated, and the person’s BAC is determined according to how much the person administering the test needs to turn a dial in order to correct the needle.

Intoxilyzers use infrared light to affect the vibrations of molecules. Based on the change in vibration of the molecule, it can be determined whether or not, as well as how much, ethanol is present to help determine toxicity level. With this device, BAC level is ultimately determined according to how much infrared light is absorbed by the molecules.

Continue reading "Measuring BAC is Trickly and Complicated" »

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According to the Los Angeles Police Department’s website, “the purpose of the Sobriety/Driver’s License checkpoint is to reduce the number of traffic collisions involving intoxicated and unlicensed drivers through enforcement and public awareness.” For all intensive purposes, sobriety checkpoints are a great addition to the policing of any community. Under ideal circumstances, these checkpoints can reduce the number of alcohol-impaired drivers on the road, thus making it safer for all other motorists. However, it is imperative that these checkpoints are properly maintained, and that innocent drivers are not singled out and punished for infractions relating to Los Angeles DUI offenses that they really didn’t commit.

At sobriety checkpoints, law enforcement officers can ask a motorist to vacate his or her vehicle, and possibly ask them to undergo a battery of tests meant to determine whether or not the driver is in fact driving while under the influence of either alcohol or drugs. However, if these tests are not administered properly, or if the law enforcement officials already are convinced that the motorist is in fact under the influence, then the ensuing test can be relatively biased, thus creating the potential for error and misjudgment.

Law enforcement officials are trained to look for indicators that an individual is under the influence. These include bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, fumbling fingers, the smell of alcohol on one’s breath, and the presence of open alcohol containers in the car. To improve the chances of accurate determination in regard to whether or not a person is under the influence of alcohol, it is highly desired that officers go through DWI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing (SFST) training prior to being assigned to work a sobriety checkpoint.

Continue reading "Sobriety Checkpoints: Always Accurate?" »

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A recent article in The Miami Herald discussed the long-winded debate over texting and driving, and whether or not texting should be banned altogether. For Californians at least, this debate ended some time ago, with texting while driving now being against the law, just as cell phone usage without a hands-free device is. However, not even half of the states across the country have imposed such rules on texting, despite the fact that there have been numerous studies warning of the dangers involved with driving while being distracted with any task other than simply driving.

The article cited a study done by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute in which texting while driving was deemed to be the equivalent of driving under the influence, and resulted in increasing the likelihood of an accident occurring by an astounding 23 times. The distraction that cell phone use creates, whether through having a traditional, verbal conversation, or through text messaging, is enough to increase the chance of loss of control of vehicle, which could certainly lead to property damage and very well could lead to personal injury, up-to and including death.

California’s law forbidding texting while operating a motor vehicle is relatively clear cut. If a driver is seen with a cell phone in hand, and it is reasonably deemed that the cell phone is being used for texting, whether that involves reading, composing, or sending a text, then that driver will be hit with a monetary fine that grows with ensuing infractions. However, the law banning cell phone usage for making calls while driving, unless the usage is considered hands-free, does not ban a person from selecting or entering a telephone number for the purpose of making a call (though it is strongly urged that drivers do not attempt to dial while operating a motor vehicle). There in lies the problem, particularly if a person is in fact dialing a cell phone but is accused of texting instead.

Continue reading "Driving Under the Influence...of Your Inbox" »

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Nevada’s The Record-Courier recently reported about a 50-year-old man who had a previous DUI felony conviction in Los Angeles in 1997, and was recently sentenced again to a second prison term for felony driving under the influence in Gardnerville, Nevada. His blood alcohol content at the time of the crash was .209, about two and a half times the legal limit. The man was sentenced to five years in prison, but could be out on parole as early as two years.

Though it was reported that the man had previously sobered up since his last conviction, even attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, he relapsed in 2008, possibly beginning to drink again over the fact that he had been diagnosed with throat and bladder cancer. Even under such extenuating circumstances, the law is the law, and the man will need to serve his jail time just like anyone else would. However, one could wonder whether or not the man’s sentence was as minimal as possible.

According to Nevada law, any person who has previously been convicted of a felony, such as driving under the influence, regardless of whether or not that conviction was in the state of Nevada, will serve prison time for a second felony committed. For the many Californians, particularly those from the Los Angeles area, that visit Nevada each year, it is important to realize that your actions in California will travel with you to Nevada, and vice-versa. With drinking such a prevalent part of Nevada cities, such as Las Vegas and Reno, it is important to remember to always take the steps needed to be as safe as possible, including those steps needed to allow for the safety of those around you.

Continue reading "Man Charged in L.A. DUI Now in NV Prison" »

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According to The Orange County Register, an 18-year old, male from the North Tustin area was recently charged with second–degree murder for crashing his parents’ car, resulting in the loss of life of his 16-year-old, female passenger. The driver was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash boasting a blood alcohol content of 0.11. His female passenger, though wearing a seatbelt, died from massive, blunt-force trauma.

It was reported that the young driver had previously, the very day of the crash, in fact, been warned by a juvenile court judge that driving involved taking on a tremendous amount of responsibility. Though the driver’s friends warned him of his intoxication level, and advised against driving the vehicle, those warnings were not taken into full consideration, with the ensuing result being the crash. The driver now faces 15 years to life in prison, and will be sentenced in October 2009.

Driving under the influence can often, but not always, lead to a loss of life, but does always have a detrimental impact on those involved, regardless of the extent to which they are a part of the crash. In any event, it is important to remember that the circumstances of the case must be examined, all influences that may have lead to the incident need to be taken into consideration, and the best possible defense should always be afforded to those being charged with driving under the influence.

Continue reading "Tustin Teen Charged with Car Crash Murder" »

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The latimes.com website reported in an article on March 14, 2009 that a driver of a Porsche hit a Ferrari driven by Charles David Lewis Jr. Lewis Jr.’s Ferrari was flung into a light post in Newport Beach where his car was sliced in half. Lewis Jr. was pronounced dead at the scene. Driving the Porsche was Jeffrey Kirby, 51 of Costa Mesa, who is in serious need of an experienced California criminal defense attorney. Kirby has had 2 previous DUI’s, one in 1985 and one in 2002. He was charged with felony vehicular manslaughter, drunk driving and leaving the scene of an accident.

Lewis Jr. was known amongst fighters as “Mask” and was the owner of a successful multimillion dollar apparel company called TapouT apparel. His girlfriend, Lacy Lynn White, 23 sustained a fractured elbow.

According to police reports, Lewis Jr. and Kirby were driving at a fast pace side by side just before the crash. Investigators were still not sure if the cars were in a race. Kirby fled the scene but was quickly apprehended a short period after. He had a blood-alcohol level of 0.13, almost twice the legal limit of .08. If convicted for his Orange County DUI, Kirby faces up to 19 years and 8 months in prison. Lynn Mari Nabozny, 32, Kirby’s passenger was also arrested but later released. Kriby’s bail was set at $500,000 and deemed a flight risk and danger to the community.

Should Kirby post bail, the commissioner has ordered that no frontal picture be taken of him, since Lewis Jr. knew a lot of friends and followers of the martial arts world.

Kirby’s lawyer, said "Whether those people would be seeking revenge, I don't know.”

The recent crackdown on DUI cases is understandable -- alcohol contributes to a death every 33 minutes and costs the public billions of dollars each year in damages, loss of life and reduced productivity. If you've been arrested for drunk driving in Los Angeles, you need an aggressive, reputable and experienced Los Angeles DUI attorney on your side. You need the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf. Please call 1-866-390-7373 for a free consultation.

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The cbsnews website reported in an article on March 14, 2009 that a judge in Beverly Hills has issued an arrest warrant for Lindsay Lohan, 22. It is unclear though why the warrant was issued. It is possible that it is connected to an incident in 2007 when Lohan was driving under the influence and crashed her Mercedes-Benz into a tree. Mike Foxen, Sgt. said that the warrant carries a bail of $50,000.

Foxen said, ‘We believe it has to do with her arrest for DUI.” He added that there were no other details disclosed to him.

Lohan’s attorney, Shawn Chapman Holley, said that Lohan has fulfilled all terms of her probation and all court instructions.

Holley said, “The warrant issued on Friday was, in our view, born out of a misunderstanding which I am confident I can clear up next week."

Sandi Gibbons, spokeswoman for the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office stated that they were not formally advised that a warrant would be issued.

Lohan is the star of the movie “Mean Girls” released in 2004. Following her drunk driving crime in 2007 for crashing her car, she was arrested again in July for chasing her former personal assistant in an SUV in Santa Monica. Tied with these two cases, Lohan later pleaded guilty to misdemeanor counts of being under the influence of cocaine.

Continue reading "Beverly Hills Judge Issues Warrant For Lindsay Lohan" »

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Actor Craig Robinson was arrested on June 29th this year for DUI in Culver City, California. Robinson, who is best known for his role as warehouse boss Darryl Philbin on NBC's live action comedy, The Office, was charged with driving under the influence -- not only of alcohol but also of an array of drugs, including marijuana and amphetamines.

Ironically, the arrest occurred just weeks before Robinson was to star in the stoner comedy Pineapple Express as a small time drug fiend. If convicted of the two felonies he is charged with, Robinson could face jail time and a significant fine. His bail was set at $10,000 in the wake of his arrest. Robinson, who often jovially spars with Steve Carrell's Michael Scott on The Office, was also tagged for possession of ecstasy and cocaine.

Fighting a DUI or drug possession charges in Los Angeles can be complicated business, whether you are a celebrity or a pop artist. Fortunately, you can find top-tier criminal attorneys to battle unfair charges and make the law work for you.

Trust the law offices of Lawrence Wolf to provide experienced consultation for your DUI or DWI defense. Wolf and his associates have been practicing Los Angeles drug crime defense law for more than three decades and this team of experts work not only to help get client charges dropped but also to assist the accused with rehabilitation and recovery from addiction problems. Together with Laura McCabe, for instance, Wolf has set up a program called The Center for Law and Addiction.

To find out more about your California DUI defense possibilities, contact the law offices of Lawrence Wolf now at 1-866-390-7373 (toll-free), or drop an e-mail explaining your situation to LW@YouAreInnocent.com Wolf's experience with DUI legal defense and his relationships with judges and DAs throughout the Southland can help you resolve your situation quickly and intelligently.

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One of Disney animated TV's most recognizable voice stars, Kirsten Storms, was recently arrested for DUI in Culver City. Storms was motoring along late at night (3 a.m.), when Culver City police officers saw her flick a cigarette out of her car window. They pulled over her Mercedes-Benz and immediately noticed potential signs of intoxication. After failing multiple sobriety tests, Storms was arrested. Later that evening, she was bailed out for $5,000.

Storms is best known for providing the voice of Bonnie Rockwaller, the catty rival of Kim Possible. She is also known for her work in soap operas, such as General Hospital and Days of Our Lives, as well as for appearances on That's So Raven and (much earlier in her carrier) The Rockford Files.

Whether you, too, have been pulled over by police on suspicion of DUI in Los Angeles or you know a friend or loved one who was recently arrested for DWI or another criminal violation anywhere else in southern California, you can count on the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf to provide a solid, strategic defense. You can get an immediate, free consultation with one of L.A.'s top DUI defense attorneys now, simply by calling 866-390-7373 (or 310-277-1707 if you are in the area). You can also e-mail LW@YouAreInnocent.com.

Without stellar legal representation, you may face stiff fines, a suspended driver's license, or even serious jail-time. While lawyers aren't miracle workers, Lawrence Wolf has established a peerless record of client service and results. Since Wolf and his fellow California DUI lawyers work all the time with district attorneys and judges, they know precisely how to negotiate to reduce sentence severity and duration. Moreover, the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf aren't only focused on "getting you off." Wolf and associates are deeply concerned with substance-abuse in Los Angeles, and they have helped pioneer programs like The Center for Law and Addiction to reduce the scourge of drunk-driving on our city's streets.

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On July 27th, 2008, Shia LaBeouf, a 22-year-old actor known for his work in films like Transformers and Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, was arrested for causing a DUI accident in West Hollywood. Fortunately for the parties involved in the accident, no one was seriously hurt, although LaBeouf himself was whisked away to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center for minor injuries. LaBeouf's DUI collision occurred at the intersection of Fountain Avenue and La Brea Avenue.

This wasn't the first time that LaBeouf has been caught in altercations with the law. In 2007, he was arrested at a Chicago Walgreens for trespassing. Earlier in 2007, while carousing in Burbank, an officer reprimanded LaBeouf for smoking in a designated non-smoking area.

Driving under the influence can lead to serious consequences -- both on the road and in your personal life. If you have been cited for DUI or DWI, and if you need legal representation to protect your rights, turn to the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf. For more than three decades, the Los Angeles DUI defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf have fought vigorously on the behalf of their clients. With an unparalleled track record for results, solid relationships with key figures in the Los Angeles legal establishment, and a sympathetic yet strategic outlook on the process of DUI legal defense, these attorneys can fight for your best defense. You can call now for a free consultation at 866-390-7373 or e-mail an attorney at LW@YouAreInnocent.com (please be aware that e-mailing the law offices does not legally establish an attorney-client relationship).

Lawrence Wolf and his associates are committed not only to providing DUI defendants with best options but also with making sure they get the help they need and that L.A.'s roads stay as safe as possible. Lawrence Wolf has supported numerous successful programs to help troubled drivers get the treatment they need and deserve.

While it's important to find a just and equitable resolution to your DUI situation, it's equally important to work to prevent future problems or arrests. Get your best Southern California DUI defense now by connecting with the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf.

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Incredible success has been obtained in overturning DMV Drunk Driving Administration per se suspensions based on DMV’s OWN records. “Check the four corners” of each document, and give special attention to blood and urine result records. Call (310) 277-1707 for inside info.

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In our premiere issue of the Wolf Report (Fall 1990), we strongly advocated the implementation of a provision to the then new “Stop and Snatch” Law, whereby first offenders would still be allowed to drive to and from work. At that time, no provisions were made permitting first time offenders to continue to drive in the course of their employment.

Those provisions that we advocated have now been enacted. First time drunk driving offenders who have had their license revoked by the DMV for four months may now apply for and receive a restricted drivers license from the Department of Motor Vehicles. Upon proof of insurance, payment of a $100 fee and enrollment in a first offender program, that first time offender may now obtain a restricted driver’s license which permits them to drive to and from and during their course of employment as well as their alcohol program.

Other dui law defenses continue to be developed on a daily basis.

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A new California law targets repeat drunk drivers by requiring installation of an ignition interlock device in their automobiles. This breath analyzer system prevents drivers who have consumed any alcohol from starting their vehicles.

The law, effective July 1, 1993, requires drivers with one or more prior convictions to use the device for up to three years. An estimated 65,000 people yearly will be subject to the law, according to the State Dept. of Motor Vehicles. The cost of leasing the device and enrolling in a required course, called the Ignition Interlock Responsible Driver Program, is $600 to $700 per year.

A difficult to master pre-set code prevents others from starting the car for the driver. And a “rolling restart” feature requires motorists to pull over and re-take the test, preventing alcohol intake on the road.

Studies show that repeat offenses by convicted drivers can be reduced by up to 65% from use of the ignition detection system. About 20 states now use similar devices.

The program could be used as a creative sentencing alternative when jail time is mandated. Possibly, sentences could be reduced by employing the device, especially for aggravated first time offenders.

Call us for individualized creative sentencing alternative proposals.

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Did you know that there are news ways to get a drivers license reinstated?

Not everybody who is convicted of drunk driving in California is a hopeless case. Sometimes there are special circumstances as well as successful rehabilitation.

Normally a person who receives a second conviction for drunk driving will lose their drivers license for one year. However, there is a procedure, unknown and unused, that can result in reinstating their driver’s license after only six months.
(Please feel free to call us for specifics.)

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