Last updated 6 days ago
There has likely been a moment in each of our lives, usually as we sit on the precipice of action, when we ask ourselves, “is this legal?” In the past, obtaining a concrete answer to that question would require either an awkward phone call to your attorney or a drawn-out consultation of a massive statutory code volume. Now all you need is a smart phone.
The California Law application for the iOS contains all 29 sections of the California legal code. From the California Constitution to fish and game law, this app can provide the answer to just about any legal query.
Of course, when you encounter actual trouble with the law, you should leave the iPhone out of the equation and consult an actual attorney for advice. If you live in the northern California region and require the services of an experienced, qualified, DUI defense attorney, call Amy Morell Law. With over 1,000 court appearances, Amy Morell will handle every aspect of your case. Call today at (510) 314-8736 to set up a consultation.
Last updated 9 days ago
When a driver is charged with a DUI offense, the most common reaction is to try and keep the incident as hushed as possible. This may mean telling as few people as possible and even curtailing the usual search for a qualified attorney and simply asking the family lawyer to deal with the problem. Unfortunately, this is akin to asking your chiropractor to perform open heart surgery on you. DUI law is a constantly changing field, and your best chance at defending, defeating, or reducing a DUI charge against you is to hire an attorney who solely practices in the field of DUI defense.
In-Depth Knowledge of the Field
While most attorneys may be able to draw pleas, including those for a DUI case, attorneys who focus their practices exclusively on DUI law will possess a much more detailed understanding of all the issues involved. This includes the most up-to-date rules and regulations concerning field sobriety tests, sobriety checkpoints, and blood draws. Finding the strengths in your case related to these and other issues could be the key to reducing or even dismissing the charges against you. A DUI attorney will also be able to effectively represent you during your DMV hearing, which determines whether or how long your driver’s license will be suspended.
Working Relationship and Inside Information
A DUI attorney will most likely know the figures involved in your DUI prosecution, from the presiding judge and the prosecutors to the arresting officer. They can evaluate the strength of your case based on past experience with these individuals, and can identify weaknesses, strategies, and arguments that will enhance your chance of success. Your attorney may be able to seek alternative pleas or even use flaws in the arresting officer’s past record, such as disciplinary actions, to strengthen your case.
Consult with an experienced DUI defense attorney as soon as possible to discuss your options and get started on your defense. If you live in northern California and would like to discuss your case with an experienced DUI defense attorney, call Amy Morell Law. With over 1,000 court appearances, Amy Morell will personally handle every aspect of your case, including your DMV hearing and court appearances. Call us today at (510) 314-8736 to schedule your consultation.
Last updated 13 days ago
While most drivers in California are aware that it is illegal to operate a vehicle with a blood-alcohol content (BAC) of over .08%, few people are aware of the range and extent of the various DUI laws. For example, commercial drivers (buses, taxis, shuttles, deliveries, etc.) are held to a stricter standard of .04% BAC, and refusing to undergo chemical testing for your BAC (a
violation of implied consent laws) can result in a longer suspension of your driver’s license than being convicted of a first-time DUI. Read on for a discussion of some of the different types of DUI violations in California.
Repeat Offenders
Since 2005, law enforcement has been able to look back as far as ten years for prior DUI arrests. Second and third DUI offenses lead to increased fines, jail time, license suspension, community service, and may be considered felonies. This can affect employment, licensing, educational, and even housing opportunities for years to come.
Underage DUI
Drivers under the age of 21 are held to a standard of .01% BAC. While convictions under this law can be infractions (if charged this way) rather than misdemeanors or felonies, the penalties still include criminal fines and license suspensions. The conviction will also be placed in your public record, and in certain circumstances you may still be prosecuted under the general DUI laws (Sections 23152 and 23153 of the CA Vehicle Code).
Other Factors
There are a slew of conditions and factors that can affect the severity of the criminal charge and associated fines, jail time, community service, and license suspension accompanying them. Among others, these include:
• Involvement of illegal drugs
• Personal or property damage
• Your BAC at the time of arrest
• Involvement of federal property
• Any children endangered by the driver
A conviction for a DUI is a serious offense that will have long-lasting effects on your life. If you have been arrested or charged with a DUI offense, you should contact an experienced criminal attorney as soon as possible to get started on your defense. If you need the services of a qualified DUI attorney, call Amy Morell Law. Our office practices DUI defense exclusively. Call us at (510) 314-8736 to schedule your consultation today.
Last updated 27 days ago
How can you protect yourself when stopped for a DUI? What are the penalties for a DUI in California? Learn more about your legal rights or possible penalties when charged for a DUI in California with these great resources.
For more information on our practice areas, call AMY MORELL LAW at (510) 314-8736 today!
Last updated 1 month ago
You don’t necessarily have to be driving under the influence to be pulled over for a suspected DUI. In fact, there are a number of driving habits that may be considered evidence of a possible DUI by police officials. One of the best things to do when pulled over for a suspected DUI or DWI is to seek the advice of a DUI attorney. What else can you do to protect yourself? Consider these tips for protecting your rights when pulled over for suspected DUI to learn more.
- Don’t Volunteer Information
Many individuals do not know how to handle a police stop, especially when it comes to being pulled over for a suspected DUI or DWI. You are not required to answer any questions that an officer asks.
- Refuse Searches and Tests
You also have the right to refuse a field sobriety test, as these do little to prove your innocence but rather provide the officer with probable cause to perform a chemical sobriety test. In fact, there really is no way to “pass” a field sobriety test as the results are subjective to the police officer performing the examination. It is also good idea not to offer to let the police officer
search your vehicle even if you think it can help demonstrate your innocence.
Have you been wrongly accused of driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated? When you’re facing criminal charges, it’s time to consider hiring a DUI attorney. Get the legal representation you need by contacting AMY MORELL LAW at (510) 314-8736. Our office is devoted to handling even the most difficult of DUI cases.
