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Recent Posts in California DUI Category

December 02, 2011
  12-02 to 12-04 DUI Sobriety Checkpoints in California
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

If you plan on going out this weekend, please be aware of the upcoming DUI sobriety checkpoints. If you happen to be arrested during a DUI check point, contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers as soon as possible. We will look into the details of your case to ensure that the arrest was done lawfully and in accordance to specific guidelines.

Contact our CA DUI Attorneys today at 888-844-4384 or fill out our FREE DUI case evaluation form to have a dedicated lawyer contact you directly!

Friday, December 2nd

Los Angeles:  8pm-2am - Lincoln Blvd. at Maxella Ave.

Orange County:  DUI roving patrol in the cities of Aliso Viejo, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel and Laguna Woods

Saturday, December 3rd

Los Angeles: 8pm - 2am - Cahuenga Blvd. at Broadlawn Dr.

San Jacinto: 7pm - 3am - undisclosed location

San Jose: 9pm - 3am - undisclosed location

Sunday, December 4th

Los Angeles: 12pm - 8pm - Harbor area

Continue reading "12-02 to 12-04 DUI Sobriety Checkpoints in California" »

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November 25, 2011
  11-25 to 11-27 DUI Sobriety Checkpoints in California
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

If you plan on going out and drinking this weekend, please make sure to have a designated driver or hire a taxi prior to leaving your home.

 Our California DUI Defense Lawyers know how stressful it can be to go through a DUI sobriety checkpoint, even if you haven't been drinking at all.  Most arresting officials announce the checkpoint prior to its commencement; however, it is not uncommon for the checkpoint to be announced moments before it is to begin.  The information below is designed to inform you of the upcoming DUI checkpoints that may be in your area.

If you are arrested during a DUI sobriety checkpoint, contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers as soon as possible. Waiting to hire a reputable DUI attorney in CA can be detrimental to your case. Fill out our DUI case evaluation form or call us at 888-844-4384!

Friday, November 25th

Bakersfield:  all weekend long - undisclosed location

Norco : 7pm - 3am - undisclosed location

Saturday, November 26th

Modesto: 9:30pm-3:30am - undisclosed location

Ventura: 8pm - 3am - undisclosed location

Continue reading "11-25 to 11-27 DUI Sobriety Checkpoints in California" »

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October 28, 2011
  Halloween 2011 - DUI Sobriety Checkpoints in CA
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

This Halloween weekend will be filled with plenty of unique costumes, candy, parties and of course, DUI sobriety checkpoints. If you plan on going out and drinking, please make sure that you have a designated driver or hire a taxi!   Police officials all throughout California will be conduction both stationary DUI checkpoints as well as roving DUI patrols to make sure that motorists are not driving under the influence.

If you happen to be arrested during a DUI checkpoint, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys as soon as possible. We want to help keep you driving! Call us toll free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 888-844-4384. To have a lawyer contact you, fill out our FREE DUI Case Evaluation Form now!


Friday, October 28th

Baldwin Park: evening - undisclosed location

Modesto: evening - undisclosed location

Riverside: 6pm-12am - undisclosed location

Sacramento: 8pm-2am - 16 th Street & C Street

San Bernardino County:  all weekend long - county wide

Santa Barbara County:  all weekend long - county wide

Studio City:  8pm-2am - Ventura Blvd. & Big Oak Drive

Saturday, October 29h

Hollywood:  8pm-2am - Sunset Blvd. & Bronson Ave.

Modesto: evening - undisclosed location

Murrieta: 7pm-3am - undisclosed location

Redlands: 10pm - 4am - University St. & Church St.

San Diego: evening - near San Diego State University

Monday, October 31st

Grand Terrace: 5pm - 1am - undisclosed location

Loma Linda: 5pm - 1am - undisclosed location

Santa Cruz: all day - multiple locations

Victorville: 6pm - saturation patrol, city wide

Continue reading "Halloween 2011 - DUI Sobriety Checkpoints in CA" »

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September 30, 2011
  California DUI checkpoints 9/30 - 10/2
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

Being arrested for a California driving under the influence charge can be stressful and expensive, especially if you are pulled over during a DUI Sobriety Checkpoint. Fortunately, our California DUI Defense Lawyers have been trained in administering DUI field sobriety tests as well as the breathalyzer test and will utilize this knowledge in helping you get a more favorable outcome in your specific DUI case.  

Our CA DUI Lawyers want you to be aware of the upcoming, as well as previous, DUI sobriety checkpoints that may be near you. While these checkpoints are supposed to be announced prior to their commencement, it is not uncommon for arresting officers to wait until the last minute to post the time and location of a checkpoint. This is done to deter motorists from purposely avoiding a certain area knowing that there might be a checkpoint.

Contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today if you are arrested during a DUI sobriety checkpoint. We will discuss the details of your case, answer any questions you may have and provide you with a free quote. Call us today at 888-844-4384 or fill out our FREE DUI case evaluation form to have an attorney contact you directly!

Friday, September 30th

Inglewood: 7pm-3am - Manchester Blvd. at Kareem Court

San Rafael: 6pm - early morning - Eastbound Third St. at Union St. , may relocate to Irwin St. at Fifth Ave.

San Diego County: evening - Valley Center, time and location undisclosed

Ventura:   8pm-3am - undisclosed location

Continue reading "California DUI checkpoints 9/30 - 10/2" »

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September 23, 2011
  California DUI Sobriety Checkpoints September 23rd-25th
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

Our California DUI Defense Lawyers have compiled the list below to provide you with the times and cities of DUI sobriety checkpoints that will be occurring this weekend.   Although most of these checkpoints have been announced, it is not uncommon for their actual location to be undisclosed as arresting officers are attempting to prevent motorists from purposely avoiding the area where a checkpoint will be.  By making the location "undisclosed", officers have a better chance at arresting those who have been driving under the influence.

If you are arrested for a California DUI during a DUI Sobriety checkpoint, contact our California DUI Attorneys as soon as possible. You have only 10 days to contact the DMV to request a hearing that is separate from your criminal court hearing! Let our DUI Defense Lawyers in California request and conduct the hearing for you! Call us at 888-844-4384 or fill out our free DUI case evaluation form!

Friday, Sept. 23rd

Hanford: 6pm-2am - undisclosed location

San Juan Capistrano: 6:30pm - 2:30am - undisclosed location

Santa Maria: 6pm-1am - undisclosed location

Saturday, Sept. 24th

Costa Mesa: 6pm-2am - undisclosed location

Fontana: 6:30pm-2am - undisclosed location

Los Angeles: 8pm-8am - Cahuenga Blvd. & Broadlawn Dr.

Modesto: 10pm-3am - DUI roving saturation patrol

Sunday, Sept. 25th

Livermore: 2pm-10pm - undisclosed location

Continue reading "California DUI Sobriety Checkpoints September 23rd-25th" »

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September 16, 2011
  September 16-18 DUI Sobriety Checkpoints in California
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

Getting around California without can be quite hard, especially if you do not reside in a pedestrian friendly city. Unfortunately, if you are arrested for driving under the influence, you could be facing a yearlong license suspension, making it that much harder to get to work, school or anywhere else you may want to go.  

Our California DUI Attorneys want you to be aware of the upcoming DUI sobriety checkpoints so that you can have a designated driver or call a taxi if you plan on going out.   These checkpoints are usually announced prior to their commencement; however it is not uncommon for arresting officials to prolong announcing the checkpoint until moments before it actually begins.

If you are arrested during a DUI Sobriety Checkpoint, contact tour California DUI Defense Lawyers as soon as possible .Waiting to hire an attorney can be detrimental to you case; call us today at 888-844-4384 or fill out our free California DUI case evaluation form to have a lawyer contact you directly!

Friday 9/16

Buena Park: 7pm - 3am - Stanton Ave. & Beach Blvd.

Petaluma: 6pm-2am - undisclosed location

San Mateo: 6pm-2am - Fourth Ave.

Saturday 9/17

Modesto: 9:30pm - 3:30am - undisclosed location

Ventura: 8pm-3am - undisclosed location

Westminster: 9pm-2am - Westminster Blvd. & Edwards St.

Continue reading "September 16-18 DUI Sobriety Checkpoints in California" »

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September 07, 2011
  California Checkpoint Legislation Modified in Senate
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI checkpoint When California state senators vote on proposed legislation addressing California sobriety checkpoints, the bills will be a bit different from those originally proposed by Assemblymen Gil Cedillo and Michael Allen.

In their original form, both bills addressed police impounds of cars at DUI/license checkpoints. According to the Press-Democrat, the impoundment provision has been dropped from Allen's AB 1389. The remaining provisions address how California DUI checkpoints must be conducted, including a requirement that police give at least 48 hours notice of a checkpoint's location.

Meanwhile, the impoundment component was shifted to AB 353, proposed by Cedillo. Allen and Cedillo decided to team up on the impoundment issue and to become joint authors of AB 353, according to Allen aide David Miller.  

The proposed bill, which is pending in the Senate, would limit the impounding of cars of unlicensed drivers at California DUI checkpoints if the car wasn't used in a crime. In addition, a car couldn't be impounded if a licensed driver was available, or an officer was able to park the car in a safe place.

Allen's California DUI law now "deals only with DUI checkpoints," Miller said.

Another change in Allen's bill involves more specific advance notice of checkpoint locations. Initially, he had wanted police to cite the actual location, but his bill was amended in the Assembly to "general location." In the Senate version, the word "general" was deleted, signifying a desire to require police to be more specific on locations.

Miller said publicizing locations remains the "subject of ongoing negotiations with law enforcement and social justice groups." As we have continually highlighted on this blog, studies have shown that giving notice is helpful in deterring some instances of drunk driving.

If you or someone you know has been arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in California, contact our California DUI attorneys today. If you are interested in learning more about the locations of California DUI checkpoints, you can also visit our Facebook page!

Continue reading "California Checkpoint Legislation Modified in Senate" »

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September 05, 2011
  Actress Jaime Pressly Avoids Jail for California DUI
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California dui Actress Jaime Pressly will avoid jail time after pleading no contest to California drunk driving charges last week. Instead, the My Name is Earl actress, 34, was sentenced to three years of informal probation, according to media reports.

In addition to probation, Pressly is also required to attend a six-month alcohol education class and must have an ignition interlock device installed on her car. For drivers who are not familiar with these devices, they are designed to prevent drivers from operating a motor vehicle when they have a measurable amount of alcohol in their systems.

As detailed on this blog, the actress had previously pleaded not guilty to charges stemming from her January 5 arrest in Santa Monica after a failed field sobriety test. Pressly reportedly had a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of 0.22 percent, significantly more than legal limit of 0.08 percent. Prosecutors had charged the actress with driving under the influence as a misdemeanor offense.

Being arrested for a California DUI can be a traumatic experience, and not just for those in the public spotlight. Therefore, it is important to have an experienced and knowledgeable California DUI defense attorney.

If you or someone you know has been arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in California, contact our California DUI attorneys today.

Continue reading "Actress Jaime Pressly Avoids Jail for California DUI" »

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September 01, 2011
  California DUI Checkpoint Bills Make It to Senate Floor
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI attorney In previous blog posts, we have highlighted two California Assembly bills designed to regulate California sobriety checkpoints. Specifically, the bills address concerns surrounding the high number of vehicles impounded at California sobriety checkpoints and the disproportionate impact on unlicensed drivers.

Both bills made it to the Senate floor last week.

As detailed by California Watch, AB 353 addresses many concerns associated with California sobriety checkpoints by prohibiting cities from having operations that focus equally on valid driver's licenses and intoxication. California law already prohibits license-only checkpoints.

With few exceptions, police could seize a car only when the motorist is suspected of a crime beyond unlicensed driving. Local governments would be protected from liability for damage or loss when they park, rather than tow, a vehicle.

Finally, on occasions when an unlicensed driver's car is taken to an impound lot, the legislation requires the vehicle be available for release the next day.

Meanwhile, AB 1389 would require checkpoints to be on roads with "a high incidence of DUI arrests or a high volume of DUI-related accidents," and not necessarily only on city streets or minority neighborhoods.

It would also provide unlicensed motorists caught at checkpoints an opportunity to find a legal driver and avoid impoundment. Police would still be permitted to seize cars when drivers are intoxicated, have revoked or suspended licenses, flee from officers, or the car serves as evidence of a crime (other than unlicensed driving).

We will continue to provide updates on both bills as they advance through the legislative process.

If you or someone you love has been arrested for drunk driving at a California DUI checkpoint, be sure to consult with an experienced California DUI Defense attorney as soon as possible.

Continue reading "California DUI Checkpoint Bills Make It to Senate Floor" »

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August 29, 2011
  California DUI Grey Area: What If You Pass Out in a Car After Drinking?
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI attorneyMost California drivers are aware that driving impaired is illegal. But how do you define "driving?" For instance, what happens if the police find you passed out in your vehicle?

California DUI law (California Vehicle Code §§23152 and 23153) requires that the defendant "drive" a motor vehicle in order to be convicted of driving under the influence.  In some case, this is very clear; in other circumstances, such as the case of a passed out driver described above, it is not so clear.

As a result, the California courts have interpreted the law to determine the definition of driving for purposes of conviction. The following are some of the interpretations of the term "driving."

  • In the case of Mercer v. DMV, the act of driving was defined as the "volitional movement of the vehicle" while the intoxicated individual is in physical control of the vehicle.
  • California courts have subsequently further clarified what constitutes "actual physical control." In the case of Keeler v. Superior Court of Amador Country, the court interpreted the term "actual physical control of the vehicle" and determined that both volitional movement and actual physical control must be present to be considered as "driving" under the penal statute.
  • Similarly, in the case of In re Queen, the court held that both elements of volitional movement and actual physical control must be proven by the prosecution in order to sustain a DUI conviction, although circumstantial evidence may be used. In that case, the court found that steering a car, while someone else works the gas and brakes, is driving.

In essence, actual physical control means the defendant must physically be in or near the vehicle and have the capability to operate the vehicle, regardless whether he or she operated the vehicle at the time of the arrest.

Under the definitions described above, it is still possible for a California driver to be charged with DUI in a parked car. For instance, if the engine was on, the parking brake released, and the impaired person was behind the wheel, these circumstances could constitute "driving."

Therefore, if you cannot call a cab or find a sober driver to pick you, the best idea may be to place the keys in the trunk and lay down in the back seat.

If you are arrested for California DUI in a parked car, it is important to hire an experienced California DUI/DWI attorney who will be able to raise doubts about whether you were actually "driving."

Continue reading "California DUI Grey Area: What If You Pass Out in a Car After Drinking?" »

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August 24, 2011
  California DA on Wrong Side of California DUI Case
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI lawyer A California district attorney has found herself on the wrong side of a California driving under the influence case. Proving no one is immune from a California DUI, Gloria Mas, an El Dorado County deputy district attorney, was arrested in July on suspicion of drunken driving, according to the Sacramento Bee.

Mas was arrested in the early afternoon of July 25 at the El Dorado County District Attorney's Office after witnesses said she drove into the parking lot there, appearing to be intoxicated. According to the California Highway Patrol's arrest report, the attorney told a CHP officer that she consumed two vodka tonics between noon and 1 p.m. while at home for lunch and then drove to the office.

According to the arrest report, a CHP officer attached to the District Attorney's Office saw Mas drive into the district attorney's lot. The officer and other witnesses, whose names were edited out of the report, told an investigating CHP sergeant that Mas showed signs and symptoms of intoxication.

The arresting officer, Sgt. T. Brown, subsequently performed field sobriety tests and a breath test in District Attorney Vern Pierson's office.

Mas failed to perform the tests properly, and the field breath test showed a blood-alcohol level of about 0.12 percent, according to the report. Results of a test conducted at the El Dorado County jail, where Mas was booked, were blacked out of the report.

The county DA referred the case to state Attorney General Kamala Harris' office because of the potential for conflicts resulting from prosecuting one of their own.

"We have taken that case," confirmed Nick Pacilio, a spokesman in the attorney general's office. A decision on whether or how to prosecute has not been made, and the case is under review.

If you or someone you love has been arrested for drunk driving, be sure to consult with an experienced California DUI Defense attorney as soon as possible.

Continue reading "California DA on Wrong Side of California DUI Case" »

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August 23, 2011
  R&B Singer Arrested for Drunk Driving
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A 23-year-old R&B singer was arrested for driving under the influence after she crashed her vehicle early Friday morning.

According to The Boom Box, Teairra Mari rear ended her silver Infiniti into another vehicle while driving in Beverly Hills.   Once officers arrived at the scene, they noticed the singer exhibited signs of intoxication and became combative with the arresting officers, giving one a minor cut.    Mari was released later that night on a $50,000 bail and has since issued a statement apologizing for her actions.

If you have been arrested for drunk driving in California, contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers today. We will investigate the details of your case, subpoena records and officers if needed and make sure that you get the best possible representation for both your DMV hearing and criminal court hearing. 

Continue reading "R&B Singer Arrested for Drunk Driving" »

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August 19, 2011
  8/19-8/21 Weekend DUI Checkpoints in California
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

Our California DUI Defense Lawyers want you to have a great weekend without getting a driving under the influence charge.   If you plan on going out this weekend, please make sure that have a designated driver or hire a cab so that you do not run the risk of having to drive after drinking.  

This weekend, there will be multiple DUI sobriety checkpoints in California; our attorneys have compiled the list below so that you are aware and can make a more informed decision.   If you do happen to be arrested for driving under the influence at a DUI checkpoint, contact our California DUI Attorney as soon as possible!

Friday:

Canyon Lake: 7pm-early morning - undisclosed location

Coachella: 7pm-1:30am - undisclosed location

Cypress: 6pm-early morning - undisclosed location

Dana Point: 8pm-4am - undisclosed location

Lompoc: 6pm - early morning - undisclosed location

Los Angeles County: weekend - multiple cities throughout Los Angeles County!

Montclair: 7pm-2am - undisclosed location

Murrieta: 6pm - early morning - undisclosed location

Orange: 8pm-2am - 1800 West Chapman Ave.

Oxnard: 6pm-2am - undisclosed location

Rancho Cordova: 8pm-2am - undisclosed location

Rancho Mirage: 8pm- 2am - undisclosed location

Redondo Beach: 7:32am - early morning - undisclosed location

Salinas: evening - undisclosed location

San Bernardino County: evening - multiple cities

San Clemente: 8pm-4am - undisclosed location

San Juan Capistrano: 8pm-4am - undisclosed location

San Marcos: 7:30pm-3am - undisclosed location

Temecula: 6pm - undisclosed location

Victorville: 7pm - early morning - undisclosed location

Vista: 7pm - early morning - undisclosed location

Saturday:

Chula Vista: 6pm - early morning - undisclosed location

Lompoc: 6pm - early morning - undisclosed location

Redlands: 10pm-3am - Alabama St. between Orange Ave. & Barton Rd.

Sacramento: evening - undisclosed location

Tustin: 7pm-3am - undisclosed location

Visalia: evening - undisclosed location 

Continue reading "8/19-8/21 Weekend DUI Checkpoints in California" »

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August 15, 2011
  California DUI FAQ: Can You Talk Your Way Out of a California DUI?
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI In most cases, you will not be able to talk you way out of a California DUI arrest. In fact, you may do more harm than good.

That's because anything you say to the police officer can later be used against you in a subsequent California DUI trial, including whether the officer smelled alcohol on your breath and whether your speech was slurred.

So what should you do?

If the officer suspects that you have been drinking, he or she will often ask, "How much have you had to drink?" It is important to realize that you are under no obligation to volunteer this information. Simply return the question with one of your own. You might ask why he or she is asking you this question or if the officer would like to see your documents.

If the officer asks again and you think you may be over the legal limit, it is best to invoke your right to remain silent. Just say, "I don't wish to answer any questions, thank you."

If you are arrested, it is also advisable to keep silent on your way to the police station. Again, anything you say can again be used against you in court. Yelling or crying at this point will not change the fact that you are facing a California DUI arrest. Instead, you should exercise your right to speak with an attorney.

If you or someone you love has been arrested for drunk driving, be sure to consult with an experienced California DUI Defense attorneyas soon as possible.

Continue reading "California DUI FAQ: Can You Talk Your Way Out of a California DUI?" »

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August 12, 2011
  Weekend DUI Checkpoints in CA 8/12- 8/14
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

Contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers if you have been arrested during a DUI sobriety checkpoint.   During a checkpoint, officers look for signs of intoxication such as blurry or bloodshot eyes, slurred speech or the scent of alcohol. A reputable and knowledgeable CA DUI Attorney will look into the details of your arrest and provide you with the best possible representation available. Check out the California DUI Checkpoints that may be near you:

Friday:

Chula Vista: 8pm-2am - undisclosed location

Escondido: weekend - undisclosed locations

Gardena: 7:30pm - 3:30am - El Segundo Blvd. at Halldale Avenue.

Los Angeles: 8pm-2am - Washington Blvd. between Abbot Kinney Blvd. & Lincoln Blvd.

Los Angeles: 7:30pm-2:30 - Highland Ave. & DeLongpre St.

Los Angeles: 6pm-1am - Westbound Imperial Hwy between Main St. & San Pedro St.

Newport Beach: 9pm-3am - Dover Drive & 16 th Street

Santa Monica: evening - undisclosed location

Saturday:

Long Beach: 6pm-2am - North Long Beach

Los Angeles: 8pm-2am - Sunset Blvd. between Maltman Ave. & Silver Lake Blvd.

Rancho Mirage: 8pm-2am - undisclosed location

San Jose: 9pm-3am - undisclosed location

Continue reading "Weekend DUI Checkpoints in CA 8/12- 8/14" »

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August 10, 2011
  California DUI FAQ: What Happens at a California DUI Trial?
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI trialThe prospect of facing a driving under the influence conviction can be stressful. Therefore, it is often helpful to understand what to expect. This post will address the criminal court process, in particular a California DUI trial.

A California DUI trial may be held either before a judge (a bench trial) or a judge and jury. The first phase of a DUI jury trial is jury selection, a process in which both the prosecutor and the offender's California DUI defense attorney will participate. Once the jury is selected, the trial begins. 

DUI trials typically last several days. At the DUI trial, both the California DUI lawyer and the prosecution will examine witnesses, call experts to testify, and present any relative evidence. Once both the prosecution and the defense have presented their evidence, closing arguments are heard. The judge then instructs the jury on how to apply the facts of the DUI case to the law and jury deliberation begins.

During the jury deliberation, the jurors are excused to the jury room to discuss the facts of the case. In order for a suspected California DUI offender to be convicted, "all" jurors must be convinced "beyond a reasonable doubt" that the suspected DUI offender is guilty. 

If the jurors are not able to conclude beyond a reasonable doubt that the offender is in fact guilty, then the offender will need to be acquitted of the charges heard. If the DUI offender is found guilty, then the judge will decide what the appropriate punishment (which can be set by law) will be. 

If you have been arrested for driving under the influence in California, it is imperative to consult with an experienced California DUI defense attorney who can help you successfully navigate the criminal justice system.

Continue reading "California DUI FAQ: What Happens at a California DUI Trial?" »

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August 08, 2011
  Showing Up Drunk to California DUI Sentencing Leads to Longer Sentence for Orange County Man
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

Orange county dui attorney From time to time, we come across a California DUI story that perfectly describes what NOT to do following a driving under the influence arrest. This story is no exception. According to the Los Angeles Times, a former sheriff's deputy's sentence was doubled to 32 months in prison after he showed up drunk in court to face a DUI charge.

Allan James Waters, 38, could have received 16 months in state prison for his Orange County DUI conviction, but an offer from the Orange County judge was withdrawn after the he appeared in court at a prior hearing in June under the influence of alcohol.

According to the Times, the former deputy pleaded guilty on April 7 to felony driving under the influence causing bodily injury, two felony counts of selling a substance in lieu of cocaine, nine felony counts of obtaining a controlled substance by fraud, and a sentencing enhancement for causing great bodily injury to a 78-year-old woman.

At the June hearing, court bailiffs noticed Waters was showing signs of intoxication, including unsteady balance and emitting an odor of alcohol. As a term of Waters' $100,000 bail, he was prohibited from consuming alcohol.

After the discovery, Prosecutor Brock Zimmon requested an increase in bail, and Waters was taken back into custody on $250,000 bail. The judge postponed the sentencing but no additional charges were filed for this incident, as the level of intoxication did not rise to the legal standard for a crime.

At the rescheduled hearing, Judge Frank Fasel withdrew his previous sentencing offer of 16 months in state prison, based on the defendant's conduct at the previous hearing and out of concern for public safety.

If you have been arrested for driving under the influence in California, it is imperative to consult with an experienced California DUI defense attorney who can help achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

Continue reading "Showing Up Drunk to California DUI Sentencing Leads to Longer Sentence for Orange County Man" »

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August 03, 2011
  The High Societal Costs of California DUI
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI Anyone who has been arrested for driving under the influence in California is aware of the costs associated with drinking and driving, including court-imposed fines and attorney's fees. Yet, many fail to acknowledge the impact of California DUI on society as a whole.

Therefore, we ask drivers to consider the following National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics before driving impaired:

  • Alcohol-related crashes in the United States cost society more than
  • $110 billion in 1998, including more than $40 billion in monetary costs and nearly $70 billion in quality of life losses. Quality of life refers to the dollar value of the pain, suffering, and lost quality of life that victims and their families experience due to a death or an injury.
  • Alcohol-related crashes are deadlier and more serious than other crashes. Persons, other than the drinking driver, paid $51 billion of the costs for alcohol-related crashes (1998).
  • In 1998, the cost of a single alcohol-related fatality in the United States was $3.2 million and the estimated cost per injured survivor of an alcohol-related crash averaged $79,000.
  • Alcohol-related crashes accounted for an estimated 16 percent of the $127 billion in U.S. auto insurance payments. Reducing alcohol-related crashes by 10 percent would save $3 billion in claims payments and loss adjustment expenses (1998).

If you have been arrested for driving under the influence in California, you will need an experienced DUI defense attorney. Contact us today to find out how we can assist you to get the best possible outcome in your case.

Continue reading "The High Societal Costs of California DUI" »

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August 01, 2011
  Are Hispanics at Greater Risk for a California DUI?
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI Hispanics in the United States, especially newly arrived immigrants, who may be unfamiliar with U.S. traffic safety laws, are a greater risk for driving under the influence, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

To further illustrate this point, consider the following statistics gathered by the NHTSA:

  • A recent study that compares non-Hispanic white drivers with Hispanic drivers in Colorado found that Hispanics had a higher rate of alcohol involvement with a correspondingly higher crash fatality rate.
  • U.S.-born Hispanics are approximately three times more likely to drink and drive than Hispanics born in other countries but who live in the United States.
  • Mexican Americans have the second highest alcohol-related fatality rate (after Native Americans) among all four types of road users: drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
  • From 1990 to 1994, there were 91,248 alcohol-related traffic fatalities in the United States.  Of those fatalities, 11,576 were Hispanics.

In addition, a recent national survey about driving while under the influence of alcohol revealed the following about Hispanic drivers and alcohol use:

  • Hispanic men were found to have the highest rate of ever having been arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI).
  • One-fifth of Hispanic males who drove a car during the 12 months before the survey reported being drunk enough to be in trouble if stopped by police.
  • Hispanics believed that the number of drinks needed to affect driving was generally higher (four to eight drinks) than what whites and blacks believed.

If you are a Hispanic driver and have been arrested for driving under the influence in California, it is imperative to consult with an experienced California DUI defense attorney who can help you successfully navigate the criminal justice system.

Continue reading "Are Hispanics at Greater Risk for a California DUI?" »

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July 27, 2011
  Visalia DUI Crackdown Pits Restaurant Owners Against Law Enforcement
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI It is not unusual for drunk driving enforcement activities, particularly saturation patrols and sobriety checkpoints, to negatively affect surrounding bars and restaurants.

In Visalia, a battle is brewing between law enforcement and several downtown Visalia bars and restaurants over what business owners are calling unfair policing. As reported by the Visalia Times Delta, California Highway Patrol Capt. Stephen Sullivan and Visalia Police Chief Colleen Mestas have denied a request by area businesses to decrease DUI patrols in the downtown area.

Visalia bar owners and restaurant owners claim that the heavy police presence in the downtown area is scaring off customers. "It's called black-and-white fever. No one wants to party with a cop," said Art Haddock, who owns the Blitz Sports Bar on Locust Street. "I am not condoningdrinking and driving. I know it's bad. But you can't break the law to enforce it."

As detailed in the article, owners complain that CHP officers are parking and waiting for customers who may or may not have been drinking. Officers "pick off" a vehicle for minor infractions and almost immediately ask about alcohol use.

While some owners and patrons have characterized Visalia police and CHP tactics as entrapment, law enforcement officials maintain that police aren't enticing downtown patrons into illegal activity.

Under California law, entrapment refers to situations where a law-abiding person is coerced into committing a crime that otherwise would not have been committed, according to Penal Code 647(a).

"Patrols are only there to catch impaired drivers before they harm themselves or someone else. Anyone who plans to or finds themselves drinking too much can and should use a designated sober driver or taxi," said Chris Cochran, an OTS spokesman.

The message for drivers in Visalia-expect increased DUI patrols in the downtown area. In 2009, the most available numbers, Tulare County was ranked 26th of 58 California counties in DUI arrests, according to OTS.

Therefore, if you plan to visit Visalia bars and restaurants, designate a sober driver or arrange for a ride home. If not, you may find yourself asked to perform a field sobriety test by Visalia police.

If you have been arrested for driving under the influence at a California DUI checkpoint, contact our experienced DUI Defense Attorneys today. We will make sure that the checkpoint was done in accordance to specific DUI checkpoint guidelines to ensure that the arrest was done correctly.

Continue reading "Visalia DUI Crackdown Pits Restaurant Owners Against Law Enforcement" »

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July 26, 2011
  Davis Man Arrested for Subsequent DUI After Causing Accident
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A Davis man has been arrested for driving under the influence after he caused a DUI-related accident around 2:45pm Sunday afternoon.

According to the Daily Democrat, Anthony Ene, a previous DUI offender, was driving a 2003 Mitsubishi Galant at speeds above 85mph when he hit a 2003 Ford Escape that was being driven by 44-year-old Heidi Sciutto of Woodland.   Sciutto's vehicle rolled multiple times before coming to a stop on its wheels while Ene's vehicle swerved through the center median and across the southbound lanes before hitting a dirt ditch.   Ene then proceeded to climb out of his car and ran through a Christian School and hid at a nearby home where he was later found and arrested for driving under the influence.   Sciutto was taken to the local hospital with moderate injuries including cuts to her elbow, hands and pain in the neck and back.

If you have recently been involved in a DUI-related accident, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys as soon as you're released from your arrest. We will investigate your specific case to make sure that the arrest was done in accordance to guidelines and we will represent you throughout your entire case.

Continue reading "Davis Man Arrested for Subsequent DUI After Causing Accident" »

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July 25, 2011
  Former NFL Star Pleads No Contest in California DUI Case
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI It appears that former NFL running back Corey Dillon has a good California DUI attorney. According to prosecutors, Dillon has pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor reckless driving charge. He was initially charged with two misdemeanor drunk driving charges.

Los Angeles County district attorney's office spokeswoman Jane Robison says Dillon was sentenced to two years of probation, a 12-hour alcohol program, and ordered to pay a $250 fine. She also indicated that Dillon entered the plea through his attorney with an admission that alcohol was involved.

The former running back was arrested last year in Calabasas on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. According to police, he showed "multiple signs of being under the influence" and admitted to drinking alcohol earlier in the evening.

As Corey Dillon's California DUI case demonstrates, an experienced California DUI defense attorney can often negotiate a "plea bargain" with prosecutors that results in reduced charges. A reckless driving conviction offers many benefits over a California DUI conviction-it does not trigger a mandatory license suspension, it results in lesser fines, and it requires shorter probation periods.

If you find yourself arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in California, it is imperative to consult with an experienced California DUI defense attorney as soon as possible to find out how we can help you.

Continue reading "Former NFL Star Pleads No Contest in California DUI Case" »

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July 22, 2011
  7/22-7/33 Weekend DUI Checkpoints in California
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

Our California DUI Defense Lawyers have compiled a list of DUI sobriety checkpoints within California for this weekend. If you plan on going out, please be advised of the scheduled checkpoints and make sure to have a designated driver.    During a checkpoint, officers look for signs of intoxication and will ask motorists to perform DUI field sobriety test to check to see whether motorists are driving under the influence. Contact our CA DUI Attorneys today for more information!

Friday:

Coachella: 7pm-1:30am - undisclosed location

Fortuna: evening- undisclosed location

Orange: 8pm-3am - 1600 North Tustin St. 

Sacramento: 8:30pm - early morning - Del Paso Blvd & El Camino Ave.

Santa Clarita: 6pm-2am - undisclosed location

Saturday

Folsom: 7pm-3am - Blue Ravine Rd., near Parkway Dr.

Fortuna: evening- undisclosed location

Inglewood: 7pm-3am - Imperial Hwy at Simms Ave.

Lake Elsinore: evening - undisclosed location

Long Beach: 6pm-2am - undisclosed location

Menifee: 6pm-2am - undisclosed location

San Jose: 9pm - 3am - undisclosed location

Continue reading "7/22-7/33 Weekend DUI Checkpoints in California" »

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July 21, 2011
  Woman Charged with Felony DUI and Child Endangerment
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A 30 year old woman was arrested for felony driving under the influence and child endangerment after she crashed her car with her infant daughter inside.  

According to the Lake County News, Sacha Shea Cooper was driving a 2004 Chevrolet Impala on Highway 29, north of Highway 281/Soda Bay Road, when she drifted across the center line and struck a 2004 Saturn.   The 31-year-old driver of the Saturn ended up in a ditch off the side of the road and sustained minor injuries and did not need to be taken to the hospital.   Cooper's vehicle also ended up on a dirt shoulder; when officers arrived, she was outside of her car with her 1 month old daughter in her arms.   Cooper was then arrested for a felony DUI, driving with an expired driver license and felony child endangerment.

Have you recently been involved in a DUI-related accident? If so, contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers as soon as possible so we can request a DMV hearing on your behalf and represent you throughout your entire case. 

Continue reading "Woman Charged with Felony DUI and Child Endangerment" »

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July 20, 2011
  CHP Report Concludes California DUI Caused Deadly Bus Crash
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI According to a 627-page report by the California Highway Patrol, 18-year-old Sylvia Garay had a blood alcohol level between 0.11 and 0.14 at the time of a tragic California bus accident that killed Garay and five others approximately one year ago.

"In the end, it was a DUI collision. [Garay} made poor choices to drink and drive and from that six people lost their lives," said Sgt. Rob Krider with the Major Accident Investigation Team.

According to CBS 47, investigators concluded that Garay and Stephanie Cordoba had been drinking shots of raspberry and apple Smirnoff vodka and Four Loco, purchased by a friend who was over 21. They drank at a friend's house before going to a Fresno nightclub. After the club closed, Garay got behind the wheel and lost control of her SUV on Freeway 99.

"Passengers at that point survived the impact, in fact, they were trying to exit the vehicle," said Assistant Chief Steve Badilla of the Central Division CHP office.

However, just two minutes and 32 seconds later, an approaching Greyhound bus crashed directly into the near of the Trailblazer after he failed to notice the disable vehicle in the dark road.

While the CHP faults Garay, an attorney representing the families of passengers Cordoba and Vanessa Gonzalez isn't entirely convinced. He questions the bus driver's speed and reaction and the CHP's response time between when the original California DUI accident happened and when the bus entered the picture.

The District Attorney's office is reviewing the report. It's unknown whether any criminal charges will be filed. 

If you or someone you love is involved in a California DUI-related accident, it is imperative to contact an experienced California DUI defense attorney as soon as possible. We will answer any questions you may have, provide you with legal advice, and represent you during both the DMV and criminal court hearings. 

Continue reading "CHP Report Concludes California DUI Caused Deadly Bus Crash" »

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July 19, 2011
  Paris Hilton's Brother Ordered to Pay Millions For DUI
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin
 California DUI Lawyer

Paris Hilton's brother is ordered to pay $4.9 million dollars to a man that he injured while he was driving under the influence in 2008.

According to Third Age, the then 18-year-old Barron Hilton was driving a Mercedes-Benz when he pulled into a Pacific Coast Highway gas station and struck a gas station attendant. Hilton's blood alcohol level was at .14%, which is above the legal limit in California.  The attendant's lawyer claims the man was permanently disabled and underwent multiple surgeries and will receive $4.9 million dollars for his pain and suffering.   Hilton has been ordered to pay $225,000 in punitive damages as well as $71,000 in interest for his California DUI.

Contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers as soon as you are released from a driving under the influence arrest.   We will request a DMV hearing on your behalf and represent you in all courts. 

Continue reading "Paris Hilton's Brother Ordered to Pay Millions For DUI" »

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July 18, 2011
  Critics Question Validity of UCSD Study Regarding "Buzzed" Driving
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI A few weeks ago, we told you about a new study by UC San Diego researchers that suggests that even one drink with dinner might impair drivers and lead to a California DUI-related accident.

Following the post, many of our readers questioned whether just one drink could really increase a person's risk for a traffic accident. Not surprisingly, the American Beverage Institute, a restaurant trade association, shares that view.

Here are a few points raised by the Institute in a recent opinion piece for Sign On San Diego.

  • The data set used-the Fatality Analysis Reporting System-only compiles numbers on accidents involving a fatality. These are, by definition, the most serious accidents. As such, they are not representative of most accidents. In fact, they comprise only three-tenths of one percent of all car accidents or 34,172 out of 10.2 million. As noted in the article, "That's like trying to discover how widespread steroid usage is and using Major League Baseball players as your sample."
  • The American Beverage Institute also points out that the authors of the study also found lower ratios of severe injuries occurring when drivers had a .03, .04, .06 or .07 blood-alcohol concentrations than a .01 BAC. This of course seems counterintuitive. The results also differed regionally. In western states, for instance, the results flip: a BAC of .00 is more dangerous to the driver than a BAC of .01.
  • Finally, the Institute notes another recent study that reached an altogether different conclusion. The study-Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research-revealed that "differences in reaction time between [participants with a .00 BAC] and [participants with a .05 BAC] were either not significant ... or reached only a trend level of significance (false alarms)."

Clearly, there is still research to be done regarding BAC and driver impairment. In the meantime, drivers should keep in mind that anything over .08% could result in a California DUI arrest.

If you find yourself arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in California, it is imperative to consult with an experienced California DUI defense attorney as soon as possible to find out how we can help you.

Continue reading "Critics Question Validity of UCSD Study Regarding "Buzzed" Driving" »

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July 14, 2011
  California DUI Offender Sentenced in Hit and Run Accident
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI A Santa Cruz County man has been sentenced to two years in prison for a hit-and-run crash that left an acclaimed professional cyclist permanently injured, the Contra Costa Times reports.

Superior Court Judge Paul Marigonda stated that Thomas Legan's history of driving offenses-including two DUI arrests and a reckless driving conviction-influenced the sentence he received.

According to authorities, the California DUI offender had been drinking the night of the July 2009 accident, in which he struck a motorcycle while driving on Highway 1 and kept going. The rider, Taylor Tolleson of Santa Cruz, was thrown 800 feet and suffered permanent neurological damage and other injuries.

As this case highlights, DUI offenders with prior convictions are subject to much greater California DUI penalties. In addition, Involvement in a traffic accident while driving under the influence is an enhancement to the regular CA DUI chargeIf this enhancement factor is proven and if the California DUI charge is a felony, then the DUI defendant faces an additional 90 days to 1 year in jail. 

Given the serious consequences, DUI defendants with prior California DUI convictions and who face sentencing enhancements are wise to consult with an experienced California DUI attorney who will attempt to negotiate a plea bargain, resulting in lesser charges and less severe consequences. 

Continue reading "California DUI Offender Sentenced in Hit and Run Accident" »

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July 13, 2011
  California DUI Offender Convicted of Second-Degree Murder
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI arrest A California woman has been convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to fifteen years to life in prison after a fatal California drunk driving accident. As this case highlights, a DUI-related accident can have catastrophic consequences for everyone involved.

According to authorities, Ashley Johnigan drank heavily in the hours before she crashed head-on into the car of Laura Cleaves on May 1, 2008. Her blood alcohol level after the accident was reported to be .24 percent, three times the legal limit in California.

During her California DUI trial, the prosecutor also offered testimony that she refused multiple offers of rides home from the Maverick Saloon, where she was drinking, and sped away from California Highway Patrol Officers who pulled up behind her in a patrol car when she stopped along Highway 154 just prior to the fatal collision.

As reported by the Santa Maria Times, Ashley Johnigan had tried to have her murder conviction overturned. The court, however, found that the prosecution had met its burden to prove the implied malice requirement for second-degree murder.

"Appellant's plan was to drive to the Maverick Saloon, drink with friends, and drive home alone. Appellant consumed an excessive amount of alcohol, was warned that she was too intoxicated to drive, was warned that she could harm someone, and turned down offers for a safe ride home," the court ruled.

If you are charged with California DUI accident involving death or serious injuries, it is imperative to consult with an experienced California DUI defense attorney who can help you determine your legal options.

Continue reading "California DUI Offender Convicted of Second-Degree Murder" »

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July 13, 2011
  Rodney King Arrested for DUI
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin
California DUI

Rodney King was arrested for driving under the influence in California Tuesday afternoon.

According to the NY Daily News, the 46-year- old man was driving a 1994 Mitsubishi after officers watched King commit multiple traffic violations.   Upon further investigation, officers found King to be driving under the influence although they were not sure if just alcohol or drugs as well.   King's 1991 arrest, where he was videotaped being beaten by Los Angeles police, caused several riots all across LA that resulted in 55 people being killed and causing more than $1 billion in property damage.

If you have been arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers as soon as you are released from your arrest. We will request and conduct both the DMV hearing and criminal court hearing and fight hard to get you the best possible sentencing. 

Continue reading "Rodney King Arrested for DUI" »

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July 11, 2011
  Super Bowl MVP Arrested for Driving Under the Influence
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin
A man known for being a Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver as well as a "Dancing With the Stars" champion has been arrested for driving under the influence early Saturday morning in Atlanta. According to the LA Times, 35-year-old Hines Ward was arrested and booked into the DeKalb County jail around 3:41am on suspicion of a DUI.   Ward's attorney has issued a statement saying that "the facts will show that Hines was NOT impaired by alcohol while driving" but that he is deeply saddened and apologizes to his fans. Ward was released on $1,300 bond even though records show his bond was set for $1,000.

If you have been arrested for driving under the influence in California, contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers as soon as possible. We will answer any questions you may have, provide you with legal advice and represent you during both the DMV and criminal court hearings. 


Continue reading "Super Bowl MVP Arrested for Driving Under the Influence" »

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July 07, 2011
  California DUI Trial Begins in Death of Orland Teen
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California dui arrest A Southern California woman is facing serious charges in a California DUI trial that began last week. Elva Diaz pleaded not guilty to charges of second-degree murder, gross vehicular manslaughter, and driving under the influence with a suspended driver's license in connection with the crash that killed Orland teen Rachel Elliot.

If convicted, Diaz faces 15 years to life in prison, stated John Hall, a spokesman for the Riverside District Attorney's Office. According to the Willows Journal, the 31-year-old former ambulance driver remains in custody at the Robert Presley Detention Center in Riverside, with bail set at $500,000.

Prosecutors allege Diaz was driving under the influence and speeding while traveling the wrong way up the northbound lane of traffic on Knabe Road in Corona when she collided head-on with the vehicle driven by Elliot on Feb. 21, 2008. According to authorities, her blood-alcohol level at the time of the crash was .20.

Although Diaz was arrested at the scene of the California DUI accident, she reportedly fled to Mexico after posting bail. She was finally apprehended last July in the rural Mexican town of Santa De Camotlan, several hours outside Guadalajara.

Tragically, Elliot played a key role in her high school's California DUI awareness programs, including taking a lead role in Orland's Every 15 Minutes DUI program less than a year before her death.

This case highlights the life-changing implications of a California DUI. We encourage all of our readers to consider this story before drinking and driving.

If you are charged with California DUI accident involving death or serious injuries, it is imperative to consult with an experienced California DUI defense attorney who can help you determine your legal options.
Continue reading "California DUI Trial Begins in Death of Orland Teen" »

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July 07, 2011
  Overturned Vehicle Accident Results in DUI Arrest
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A single auto accident has resulted in a driving under the influence arrest of a 38-year-old McKinleyville woman.

According to the Times Standard, Robin Lynn Anderson was driving her 1992 Isuzu Rodeo around 9:24 northbound on Highway 101, south of Arcata, when she lost control. The vehicle flipped across the center divider and all southbound lanes.   Anderson was trapped inside the vehicle for over 20 minutes until the fire department was able to get her out.    Officers then arrested Anderson on suspicion of having a high level of intoxication at the time of the accident but due to her moderate injuries, she was released to the local hospital for treatment.

If you have been involved in a DUI-related accident, contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers as soon as possible.   We understand the laws surrounding DUI defense and will make sure that you receive the best possible representation. 

Continue reading "Overturned Vehicle Accident Results in DUI Arrest" »

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July 06, 2011
  Coast Guard Cracking Down on California Boating Under the Influence
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California BUI As summer officially begins, California boaters should be aware that the Coast Guard is cracking down on boaters who may be under the influence. As part of their Operation Dry Water program, the Coast Guard will be increasing patrols from Dana Point to Moro Bay, NBC Los Angeles reports.

While most people are familiar with the laws governing California DUI, the rules and regulations regarding boating under the influence, or BUI, are much less understood.

Below are several keys facts about boating under the influence that you may not know:

  • Unlike police, Coast Guard officers say they don't need probable cause. They can climb aboard any boat, at any time, in US waters.
  • Like police, the Coast Guard carries breathalyzers, and can test for blood alcohol levels.
  • The legal limit of 0.08% applies to California boaters as well.
  • The consequences faced by those arrested for California boating under the influence include fines, jail time, and probation

We encourage all California boaters to operate their vessels responsibly this summer. Unfortunately, the Coast Guard reported 672 deaths from boating accidents last year alone, of which 20% were due to alcohol.

If you are charged with California DUI or California BUI, it is imperative to consult with an experienced California DUI defense attorney who can help you determine your legal options.

Continue reading "Coast Guard Cracking Down on California Boating Under the Influence" »

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July 06, 2011
  NFL Player Arrested for DUI In Fresno
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A former NFL football player was arrested for driving under the influence after he crashed his truck into a pole Monday afternoon.  

According to the Fresno Bee, Lorenzo Neal was driving his Ford F-150 around 4:20pm on the 4400 block of Copper Avenue near North Minnewawa Avenue in Fresno when he ran off the road and came to a stop when he hit a pole. Coincidentally, the 40-year-old NFL fullback is listed as chief information officers for Safe Ride Solutions, a company that offers confidential rides for intoxicated drivers. Once officers arrived at the scene, they arrested Neal for drunk driving but later released him to a friend.

If you have been arrested for driving under the influence in Fresno, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys as soon as possible. We will request the DMV hearing on your behalf and represent you at all court hearings. 

Continue reading "NFL Player Arrested for DUI In Fresno" »

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July 05, 2011
  Orange County Has 69 DUI Arrests Over Holiday Weekend
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

This past 4th of July weekend resulted in multiple driving under the influence arrests between 6pm Friday through midnight on Monday.

According to the OC Register, the California Highway Patrol made 69 arrests for motorists who were driving under the influence in Orange County alone.    The CHP was doing a maximum enforcement during the holiday weekend as they expected swarms of both tourists and locals taking advantage of the warm weather and fireworks on the beach.   This year's holiday weekend resulted in more DUI arrests than last year which only brought in 51 DUI arrests. However, unlike last year which was free from fatalities, there was one accident early Monday morning which took the life 43-year-old Leonardo Montes of Santa Ana.

If you were arrested this weekend for driving under the influence in California, contact our California DUI Lawyers as soon as possible. Waiting to hire an attorney could be detrimental to your case as you could be facing long license suspension on top of hefty fines and even potential jail time. 

Continue reading "Orange County Has 69 DUI Arrests Over Holiday Weekend" »

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July 05, 2011
  Teen Girl Arrested for DUI with Drugs Months After Getting License
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A 16-year-old girl has been arrested for driving under the influence around 1am Sunday morning after just 5 months of having a provisional license.

According to Mercury News, officers were responding to a two-vehicle collision on Sir Francis Drake Blvd. at Bon Air Center in Greenbrae when they noticed a vehicle coming towards them at a fast speed. Officers tried to flag down the vehicle as it ran through a red light and finally came to a stop in the middle of the intersection.

The teenage driver was arrested for driving under the influence after they had her conduct field sobriety tests that she failed. On top of driving under the influence of drugs, the 16-year-old was driving on a provisional license, was violating a restriction to not drive after 11pm and had marijuana residue and a glass smoking pipe inside the vehicle.   After she was arrested, the teen was cited and released to a guardian and her vehicle was towed.

Contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers if you find yourself arrested for a DUI with alcohol or drugs. We have the experience and knowledge to assist you with your specific case. 

Continue reading "Teen Girl Arrested for DUI with Drugs Months After Getting License" »

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June 30, 2011
  Can You Erase a California DUI?
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI expungement A criminal record can have drastic consequences on many aspects of daily life, particularly now that employers routinely conduct background checks. Fortunately, for some California DUI offenders, it is possible to essentially "seal" a prior criminal record through the process of expungement .

Under the laws in California, DUI offender may apply for such relief so long as (1) the DUI offender has fulfilled all the conditions of probation or has been discharged before the termination of probation, or (2) if the court in its discretion determines that the probationer should be granted this type of relief.

It is important to note that, although you are considered to have a "clean record" for most purposes after your record is expunged, your prior DUI conviction will still be counted if you are subsequently arrested for driving under the influence.

In addition, there are some cases in which a California DUI offender cannot have his or her DUI conviction expunged, including:  

  1. The California DUI offender is still serving a sentence for a criminal offense or is still on formal or informal probation for any offense, or is charged with the commission of any offense 
  2. Probation for the current application was revoked and not reinstated
  3. The California DUI offender was arrested and convicted of a new crime within 1 year of the former judgment
  4. There is an outstanding warrant for the arrest of the CA DUI offender
  5. The DUI offender failed to appear or pay fees/fines to the Department of Motor Vehicles
  6. The record of the conviction continues to exist and continues to have certain effects
  7. The conviction is for an infraction (a criminal offense for which a jail sentence may not be imposed) or for a violation of California's VC Sections 2800, 2801, or 2803.

If you would like to expunge your California DUI conviction, it is important to speak with an experienced California DUI defense attorney.

Continue reading "Can You Erase a California DUI?" »

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June 30, 2011
  Man Arrested for DUI After High Speed Chase
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A high speed chase ended in Desert Hot Springs with a man being arrested for driving under the influence shortly after 5:30pm.

According to KPSP Local 2, officers attempted to pull over a Chevy Camaro in connection with a high and run accident in Cabazon when the vehicle took off, leading officers on a chase down the I-10.   The Camaro headed east on the freeway and got onto State Route 62; his vehicle reached speeds of up to 100 mph before getting a flat tire and finally coming to a stop.   Officers arrested the driver without incident and are investigating whether the vehicle was stolen.

Contact our California DUI Attorneys as soon as possible if you have been arrested for drunk driving.   You have only 10 days to contact the DMV to request a hearing; let our attorneys request it for you so that you don't have to. 

Continue reading "Man Arrested for DUI After High Speed Chase" »

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June 29, 2011
  Tips On How To Avoid A DUI for the 4th of July Weekend
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

Our California DUI Defense Law Firm has put out the following press release proving tips on how to have a safe and DUI-free Fourth of July Weekend. If you are arrested during this holiday weekend or at any point in time, contact our CA DUI Lawyers as soon as possible.

Tips on Avoiding a Drunk Driving Charge 

While we often celebrate the Fourth of July holiday with fireworks, food, and friends, it is really about celebrating our country's independence. Yet, every year, hundreds of drivers put their freedom at risk by choosing to drink and drive. In fact, the Fourth of July weekend is the deadliest holiday for alcohol-related crashes.

To keep our roads safe, California law enforcement will be stepping up their efforts to arrest impaired drivers. You can expect that police will be conductingsobriety checkpoints, saturation patrols, and other enforcement activities on roadways throughout Orange County.

Take it from an experienced Orange County DUI attorney: a drunk driving arrest is simply not worth the risk. As attorney Thomas Wallin explains, "While you may not realize just how dangerous it is to drink and drive, the emotional distress and financial costs of a crash or an Orange County DUI arrest can still be significant. DUI offenders will face jail time, the suspension of their driver's license, higher insurance rates, and dozens of other unanticipated expenses."

Before you head out to celebrate this holiday weekend, please read the following tips for avoiding an Orange County DUI:

  •     Call a taxi or designate a sober driver. It's that simple. If everyone followed this advice, we wouldn't need to provide the additional tips.
  •     Be informed. You can find information about California DUI checkpoints on Facebook or, for specific information for Orange County, the Orange County DUI Checkpoints website.
  •     Stay calm. Clearly, this is easier said than done. An Orange County DUI checkpoint or DUI stop is nerve-wracking. To avoid the appearance of fumbling for your license and registration, it is important to make sure they are easily accessible.
  •     Be polite. Roll the window down and place your hands on the wheel until the officer gets to your window. Wait until asked to reach for your documents.
  •     Don't volunteer information. Resist the urge to talk your way out an arrest. This almost always does more harm than good. If the officer suspects that you have been drinking, he or she will often ask, "How much have you had to drink?" It is important to realize that you are under no obligation to volunteer this information. Simply return the question with one of your own. You might ask why he or she is asking you this question or if the officer would like to see your documents. If the officer asks again and you think you may be over the legal limit, it is best to invoke your right to speak with an attorney before answering any further questions.
  •     Say no to field sobriety tests. If the police officer asks you to step out of the vehicle, you must comply. However, you do not have to perform any field sobriety tests such as walking on a line or touching your nose with both hands. If you think the tests may give the officer any reason to suspect you are impaired, politely decline to perform them.
  •     Delay the breath test. You should also refuse the Preliminary Alcohol Screening (PAS) Test. The PAS test is similar to a breathalyzer and is used in the field prior to arrest. Unless you are under 21, there is no penalty for refusing the PAS Test. This is not to be confused with a chemical breath test or blood test, which is administered after arrest and is required by law.
  •     If you're arrested, submit to a breath test. At the police station, you will again be asked to submit to chemical testing. Under California's implied consent law, you must submit to a breath or blood test. Failure to do so after you are arrested for an Orange County DUI will result in harsher penalties such as jail time and loss of your driver's license for up to one year or more.

Finally, if you find yourself arrested for an Orange County DUI this Fourth of July weekend, it is imperative to contact an experienced Orange County DUI defense attorney as soon as possible. The Law Offices of Thomas Wallin are devoted to defending motorists who have been charged with an Orange County DUI, but don't say they didn't warn you.

About Thomas Wallin: Thomas Wallin is a respected authority on DUI laws in California and author of the California DUI Guide. For over a decade, he has provided aggressive and professional representation to those accused of DUI in California. Mr. Wallin has knowledge and experience in all aspects of a California DUI case, including sobriety checkpoints. Information about Orange County DUI checkpoints can be found on his website, OC DUI Checkpoints.

 

Continue reading "Tips On How To Avoid A DUI for the 4th of July Weekend" »

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June 29, 2011
  22 Year Old Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Fatal DUI
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A young Fallon man is facing up to 12 years in prison for causing a fatal driving under the influence accident that took the life of a 19 year old woman.

According to the Lahontan Valley News, on the night of November 8, 2010, two lives were forever changed.   Justin Speed, 22, was driving a 2007 Chevrolet Silverado truck westbound on Highway 50 when he veered into oncoming traffic and collided with a 1986 Volvo station wagon driven by Samantha Sibis, 19, killing her instantly.   Speed was returning from his own brother's funeral when he caused the fatal DUI-accident.

Our law firm sends it sincere condolences to the friends and family members of Sibis.  If you have been involved in a driving under the influence accident, contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers today. 

Continue reading "22 Year Old Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Fatal DUI" »

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June 29, 2011
  Driver and Bicyclist Both Intoxicated in California DUI Accident
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI In a rare California DUI accident, a drunken pickup truck driver collided with a drunken bicyclist near Redwood City. This odd story highlights the dangers of both driving and biking while under the influence.

"In my five-and-a-half years on this job, I have not seen this situation before," California Highway Patrol Officer Amelia Jack said.

"Not that it doesn't happen, but I've never had (a case where both drivers are drunk), especially with one being a bicyclist and one being a car."

As reported by the San Francisco Chronicle, Jose Luna, 40, of Redwood City was turning at an intersection when he struck bicyclist Alejandro Chavez, 31, of Redwood City, at about 11 p.m. on June 18.

Chavez, who had been riding against traffic, was wearing dark clothing and did not have a helmet or the required lights. He was thrown from his bicycle during the accident and suffered serious injuries, including a broken back and leg, the CHP said. He was also cited for bicycling under the influence of alcohol.

According to the CHP, Luna failed a California field sobriety test, and blood work from the hospital showed Chavez's BAC was over the legal limit.

Luna was subsequently charged with California DUI in San Mateo County Superior Court. Because court documents show he has a prior DUI conviction, he will likely face increased fines and penalties.

If you or someone you know has been arrested for driving under the influence in California, it is imperative to consult with an experienced California DUI attorney.

Continue reading "Driver and Bicyclist Both Intoxicated in California DUI Accident" »

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June 28, 2011
  Northern California Woman Arrested for Driving Under the Influence
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A 25-year-old Rodeo resident has been arrested for driving under the influence after she caused an accident on Highway 1 over the weekend.

According to the Pacifica Patch, Claudia Interiano was her vehicle on Pacific Coast Highway around 1am when she struck a guard rail, spun around and ended up facing oncoming traffic on the shoulder of the highway. Once officers arrived at the scene of the solo vehicle crash, they found Interiano inside of the vehicle that still had its engine running.   Interiano was arrested for a DUI and taken to the Redwood City county jail.

If you have been recently arrested for driving under the influence or have caused a DUI-related accident, contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers today; we have the experience and knowledge to handle any type of California DUI and will provide you with the legal advice that you will need to make an informed decision. 

Continue reading "Northern California Woman Arrested for Driving Under the Influence" »

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June 23, 2011
  Prosecutors Claim Man Covered for Friend in Deadly California DUI Accident
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI Prosecutors have filed criminal charges against an Irvine man who they say covered up for a friend in the crucial moments after a deadly California DUI accident, the OC Register reports.

Jaime Servin, 38, was charged this week with a felony count of being an accessory after the fact and a misdemeanor count of resisting and obstructing a peace officer. Because he has a prior strike conviction on his record for a 1992 robbery, he could face up to six years in state prison if convicted on the charges filed this week.

Servin has not entered a plea and could not be reached for comment. He turned himself in to the La Palma Police Department late Thursday and was released on $100,000 bail.

Although it may be tempting for a sober passenger to cover up for a friend who may have been driving under the influence, this is never a good idea, and it usually ends up in serious penalties for both parties.

If you are charged with California DUI, it is imperative to consult with an experienced California DUI defense attorney who can help you determine your legal options.

 

Continue reading "Prosecutors Claim Man Covered for Friend in Deadly California DUI Accident" »

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June 22, 2011
  15 Year Old Arrested for Felony DUI
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A San Jose teenager has been arrested for a felony DUI after causing a one-vehicle accident mid Friday afternoon.

According to Mercury News, the 15-year-old was driving a 2004 Lexus RX330 on State Road 156 when he drove onto the shoulder and hit a fence.   The teenager, whose name is not being released because he is a minor, was not injured; however, 49-year-old Steven Gonzales, the teen's passenger and owner of an unnamed marijuana dispensary in San Jose, broke both of his legs as a result of the accident.  

Gonzales was taken to the hospital where he was later arrested for illegally possessing a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia at the time of the crash as well as being under the influence of drugs. The teen was arrested for felony DUI and was taken to juvenile hall.

Our California DUI Attorneys understand how frustrating it can be to be arrested for driving under the influence in California. Contact us today to find out how we can help you get the best possible result for your DUI case. 

Continue reading "15 Year Old Arrested for Felony DUI" »

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June 21, 2011
  Three Teens Hurt in California DUI Accident
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUIOver the past several weeks, we have highlighted numerous efforts by California schools and law enforcement to educate teens about the dangers of driving under the influence. Unfortunately, teens continue to ignore the dangers. As detailed below, three Napa teens were injured last week when a one of them got behind the wheel after drinking.

According to Bay City News, three teen boys were injured when their pickup collided with two trees on Dry Creek Road outside Napa city around 4:40 a.m. The California Highway Patrol reports that all three teens were taken to Queen of the Valley Medical Center in Napa. A 17-year-old passenger suffered major injuries and was listed in critical condition, CHP Officer A. Paulson said.

Meanwhile, the 17-year-old driver of the 1990 Toyota pickup suffered minor injuries and was arrested on suspicion of California DUI.

The driver allowed the truck to drift east and off the road, the CHP said. The truck then sideswiped a metal fence post, collided with one tree then stuck a second tree head-on.

As we have mentioned on this blog, an underage DUI arrest can significantly impact a teen's future. If your child is charged with California underage DUI, it is imperative to consult with an experienced California DUI defense attorney.

Continue reading "Three Teens Hurt in California DUI Accident" »

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June 20, 2011
  Fatal Accident Results in DUI Arrest of 21 Year Old
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A 21-year-old Chico will be facing felony DUI chargers after a serious accident near San Luis Obispo.

According the KRCRTV, Evan A. Green was driving a 2004 Saturn when he lost control of his vehicle.   When Green tried to over correct, the vehicle flipped several times and went through a fence and onto a golf course.   Two 21-year-olds, Aaron Michael Beaver of Eureka and Marcus Alex Nelson of Castro Valley both were killed due to the accident.   Green and another one of his passengers, Jacob Zimmer, survived with major injuries. Green taken to the Sierra Vista Medical Center and was then arrested after causing the DUI-related accident.  

Our DUI law firm sends its sincere condolences to the friends and family members of those who died.  Contact our California DUI Attorneys if you have been arrested for any type of driving under the influence case today. 

Continue reading "Fatal Accident Results in DUI Arrest of 21 Year Old" »

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June 17, 2011
  Firefighter Dies During Accident, Woman Arrested for DUI
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A 24-year-old woman caused a fatal DUI-related accident that took the life of an off duty Los Banos Firefighter.

According to Firefighting News, Amie Chick was driving a 2012 Jeep when she made a left hand turn in front of Andrew Maloney, 29, who was driving a 2011 Suzuki motorcycle on Highway 165.   Unfortunately, Maloney was not able to avoid the accident that occurred just after 9pm.   Upon further investigation, officers arrested Chick, who did not suffer any injuries, for driving under the influence of alcohol and marijuana.    Our law firm sends its sincere condolences to the friends and family members of Maloney.

If you have been recently arrested for driving under the influence, contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers today to find out more information on what you could be facing as a DUI offender.

Continue reading "Firefighter Dies During Accident, Woman Arrested for DUI" »

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June 16, 2011
  Woman Arrested for DUI After Hitting 100 Bicyclists
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A Los Angeles woman has been arrested for driving under the influence after she caused a serious DUI-related accident that involved over 100 bicyclists.

According to the Los Angeles CBS Local,   the 27-year-old woman was driving a white Honda Civic on West Jefferson Place and Rodeo Road around 1:49am when she crashed into a group of over 100 bicyclists who were taking up part of the road. About 9 bicyclists, who are part of a late night bike ride, out of the 100 were treated for their injuries while one man is said to be in critical condition.   Witnesses stated the woman was driving around 60 mph when she hit the group of cyclists. The woman, whose name has not been released, has been arrested for a driving under the influence.

Contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers today if you are arrested for a DUI or after causing a DUI-related accident

Continue reading "Woman Arrested for DUI After Hitting 100 Bicyclists" »

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June 16, 2011
  Local Mom Charged with California DUI After Crashing Four Times
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California dui A California woman was driving under the influence with her children in the car when she proceeded to crash into a shed, a parked car, a street's lane divider and a couple of street signs, police allege.

Whitney Cotta, 24, was arrested on June 2 after her SUV became disabled during an unsuccessful left turn from Mohawk Street to California Avenue in Bakersfield, according to law enforcement officials.

Cotta's multiple crashes began just a few blocks away at a Sheraton Four Points hotel, BakersfieldNow.com reports. Hotel employees reportedly tried to detain her after she hit a shed in the parking lot, but she kept driving over the grass to exit the property. She also rear-ended a stopped car and a lane divider before the vehicle finally became inoperable.

Cotta was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence, child endangerment, and hit-and-run.

If convicted of California DUI, the woman will likely face greater penalties because her children were in the vehicle.

While there is a minimum sentence for each California DUI offense, a judge can increase the recommended sentence for any "enhancements" that may apply to the case.

Some examples of enhancements that could affect the severity of your California DUI penalties are:

  • Speeding at the time of arrest
  • Driving under the influence with children in the car
  • Being involved in an accident while under the influence
  • Driving on a suspended license

If you or someone you know is arrested following a California DUI-related accident, it is imperative to consult with an experienced DUI attorney. Contact our California DUI attorneys today. 

Continue reading "Local Mom Charged with California DUI After Crashing Four Times" »

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June 14, 2011
  Graduation Season Means More California DUI Arrests
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California underage duiOver the next few weeks, teens all over California will be graduating from high school.  While this is clearly a reason to celebrate, teens are reminded to do so responsibly.

California law enforcement officers know teens will be celebrating their new found freedom and will be looking to make California underage DUI arrests by stepping up enforcement activities such as saturation patrols and DUI checkpoints.

For teens, it is important to understand that it is illegal to drive with any detectable amount of alcohol in your system.

For those who are under the age of 21, below are some of the California DUI penalties you may receive under California's Zero Tolerance law:

  • Mandatory one-year suspension of driver's license.
  • Proof of financial responsibility for three years (SR-22).
  • A fine of $380 and two points on their driving record.
  • $100 fee for re-issuance of driver's license.
  • Impounding of vehicle for up to 30 days.

For parents, this is a great time to set a good example by not drinking and driving. It is also important to remind your children about the consequences of a California DUI.  Most of all, encourage them to call you rather than risking a California DUI or getting in the car with someone who may be intoxicated.

Unfortunately, not all teens heed the warnings about the dangers of drinking and driving. If your child is arrested for underage DUI in California, the consequences can be devastating. Therefore, it is imperative to consult with an experienced California DUI defense attorney.

Continue reading "Graduation Season Means More California DUI Arrests" »

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June 13, 2011
  Car Gets Stuck, Driver Arrested for DUI
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A Lake Elsinore man has been arrested for driving under the influence after he caused a single vehicle collision early Sunday morning.

According to My Valley News, 21-year-old Saul Pena Preciado was driving on Lakeshore Drive when he attempted to turn right onto another street but lost control.   Preciado’s white Ford 150 truck hit the center divider, damaged a roadway sign and continued across the westbound lanes before coming to a stop on the sidewalk, between a retaining wall and a utility pole.  Preciado was taken to the Inland Valley Medical center for treatment of minor injuries before he was arrested and booked for driving under the influence.

Contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today if you have been involved in a DUI-related accident; our attorneys have the experience and knowledge to handle any type of DUI case.

Continue reading "Car Gets Stuck, Driver Arrested for DUI" »

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June 13, 2011
  Man Saved From Jumping Off Bridge, Arrested for DUI
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A 40 year old man, who was previously driving under the influence, was successfully detained after he threatened to jump from the Bay Bridge in San Francisco Saturday afternoon.

According to the California Beat, the man drove onto the bridge, got out of his vehicle and climbed onto the ledge of the bridge at around 2:45pm.   California Highway Patrol closed several lanes on both the upper and lower deck of the Bay Bridge as a precaution and the United States Coast Guard dispatched a boat to wait at the underside of the bridge just in case.

Officers and negotiators were able to convince the man to not jump at around 4:30pm and he was taken to the local hospital for medical evaluation. The man then was arrested after officers discovered he had been driving under the influence prior to attempting to jump from the bridge.

If you have been arrested for driving under the influence, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today so that we can get started on giving you the best possible representation. 

Continue reading "Man Saved From Jumping Off Bridge, Arrested for DUI" »

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June 10, 2011
  Canadian Actress Charged with Battery of an Officer and DUI
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

Actress Estella Warren was formally charged with four misdemeanors, one of which included driving under the influence, for an arrest that occurred last month.

According to Pop Eater, an officer saw the 32-year-old actress and top Canadian synchronized swimmer slam her Toyota Prius into three parked cars and drive away.   Officers then pulled Warren over but she proceeded to resist arrest and kicked an officer.   The actress was taken to the local police station where she freed herself from handcuffs and tried to run.   Warren could be facing up to 6 months in jail for her four misdemeanors.  

Our California DUI Lawyers have the experience and knowledge to handle all types of California DUI cases; contact us today to find out how we can help you!

Continue reading "Canadian Actress Charged with Battery of an Officer and DUI" »

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June 09, 2011
  Man Arrested for DUI Ran Off Road and Got Stuck in Mud
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A 56-year-old Santa Rosa man was arrested on suspicion of a California DUI and drug possession Wednesday evening.

According to the Napa Valley Register, Terry Alan Gray was driving his Toyota Camry when he ran off the roadway near Lodi Lane on Highway 29; the car apparently hit a drain pipe and became stuck in the mud. Once officers arrived, they noticed Gray had signs of impairment and proceeded to have him perform a DUI field sobriety test.   Officers arrested Gray for felony possession of a controlled substance, driving under the influence of a controlled substance and driving while addicted to a drug.

Contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys have been practicing DUI defense for over a decade and can handle any type of driving under the influence case. Contact us today to find out how we can get you the best possible representation. 

Continue reading "Man Arrested for DUI Ran Off Road and Got Stuck in Mud" »

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June 09, 2011
  Some Santa Clara DUI Cases to Be Dismissed Due to Faulty Breathalyzer
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

As we previously reported on this blog, the discovery of faulty breathalyzer devices has forced Santa Clara prosecutors to review hundreds of California drunk driving arrests made by San Jose and Palo Alto law enforcement. Now that prosecutors are midway through their review, they have provided an update of the number of cases that may be impacted.

At this point, Santa Clara County prosecutors have dropped charges in one case and found only a small percentage of others so far that may have to be dismissed or wiped off the driver's record because of a faulty breathalyzer, the Mercury News reports.

The special review of 858 files is continuing and could turn up more problematic cases than 42 -- or 5 percent -- identified so far. But attorneys with the county Public Defender's Office say they don't expect to see a big increase.

The 42 questionable cases identified so far involve drivers who refused to take a second sobriety test at the police station, leaving the now-suspect field-test result as the main evidence.

The one case that has been dismissed involved a college student. Prosecutors wound up dismissing the charges against the student because the final test taken at the station showed her blood-alcohol level was 0.05, well below the legal limit. Prosecutors had filed the case despite that because two field tests using the defective Alco-Sensor V showed readings of 0.08 and 0.09.

Unfortunately, breathalyzers are subject to a number of problems including accuracy, calibration, and maintenance.

Therefore, if you are arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in California after undergoing chemical testing, it is important to contact an experienced California DUI attorney .

Continue reading "Some Santa Clara DUI Cases to Be Dismissed Due to Faulty Breathalyzer" »

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June 08, 2011
  Palmdale Man Arrested for DUI in Goleta
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A Palmdale resident was arrested for driving under the influence after officers used a taser on him.

According to KSBY, Gregory Murphy, 33, was pulled over in Goleta around 9pm on suspicion of drunk driving.  More officers were called to the scene as Murphy became uncooperative and began kicking the officers. In order to subdue Murphy, officers tasered him and took him into custody.   Murphy tested positive for blood alcohol content level that was above the legal limit and is currently being held at the Santa Barbara County Jail.

Contact our California DUI Attorneys today if you have been arrested for driving under the influence in California.    We will ensure that you receive the best possible representation and will conduct both the DMV and criminal court hearings on your behalf so that you don’t have to be present. 

Continue reading "Palmdale Man Arrested for DUI in Goleta" »

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June 08, 2011
  DUI on Prescription Drugs in California
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI Many California drivers are unaware that driving under the influence charges do not always involve alcohol. As we recently highlighted on our blog, driving under the influence of drugs can be just as dangerous.

This post will summarize what you need to know about driving under the influence of drugs or DUID in California.

First, under California law, it is illegal to drive while intoxicated by any substance, whether it is alcohol, drugs, or both. California DUID cases involve drivers who are impaired by illegal drugs such as methamphetamine or cocaine as well as prescription drugs such as Vicodin or Ambien.

This means that you could be arrested for California DUID even if you are under the influence of a drug that was legally prescribed by your doctor. As you are likely aware, many of these drugs contain warnings about operating a motor vehicle.

Since a California DUID offense can result in many of the same penalties as a typical California DUI, including fines, license suspension, and possible jail time, it is imperative to consult with an experienced California DUI attorney.

Continue reading "DUI on Prescription Drugs in California" »

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June 03, 2011
  Our CA DUI Law Firm's New Law School Graduate!
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

Our California DUI Defense Attorneys are sending their congratulations to Crystal who is graduating from Law School today!

Crystal has been with our firm for over 3 years and has been an important instrument in providing both the attorneys and clients with the information that they need.  Our law firm is happy to have helped Crystal learn the ropes of DUI defense and we are extremely proud of her accomplishments.

We wish Crystal the best in her future endeavors and look forward to seeing her become a successful attorney. 



Continue reading "Our CA DUI Law Firm's New Law School Graduate!" »

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June 03, 2011
  Senators Renew Fight Against DUI Checkpoint Applications
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI checkpoint app The pressure on Google and Apple to remove DUI checkpoint applications (apps) is back in the news. As we previously reported on this blog, earlier this year, several members of Congress wrote a letter to Google, Apple, and research in Motion (Blackberry) asking the companies to remove DUI checkpoint apps from their smart phone stores. Only Research in Motion complied.

As reported by Ars Technica, Senator Tom Udall (D-NM) took his allotted five minutes during Thursday's US Senate hearing on mobile privacy to condemn Apple and Google for not removing DUI checkpoint apps from their respective stores.

"Isn't what these apps are doing is encouraging people to break the law?" Udall asked. Udall, along with Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ), Harry Reid (D-NV), Charles Schumer (D-NY), had called such apps "harmful to public safety."

Apple's Catherine Novelli has stated that there are differences of opinion on whether flagging the locations of checkpoints is inherently good or bad. Novelli pointed out that there are some apps that offer to call a local cab company for the user, for instance, which could be viewed as a net positive. "We are reviewing the situation and determining the best course of action in a thoughtful manner," she said.

Google's Davidson simply noted that apps that merely share information don't violate the Android Marketplace policy "at this time."

As we have continuously argued, DUI checkpoint applications serve as a powerful drunk driving deterrent. Publicizing the location of a California DUI checkpoint will often encourage a driver to designate a driver or call a cab rather than risk a DUI arrest.

If you or someone you know has been arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in California, it is imperative to consult with an experienced DUI attorney. Contact our California DUI attorneys today. 

Continue reading "Senators Renew Fight Against DUI Checkpoint Applications" »

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June 02, 2011
  Car “Surfing” and California DUI Are a Dangerous Combination
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI As reported by Contra Costa Times, a 35-year-old man fell from a skateboard today while holding onto a vehicle being driven by 33-year-old man who was allegedly driving under the influence.

Edward Culhane had been riding on his skateboard while holding onto a vehicle-known as car surfing-being driven by Ryan Howell when he fell off, hitting his head on the ground, according to a statement from the Santa Clarita Station. He was taken to Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital for what were described as serious injuries.

Howell was arrested and booked for felony DUI under California law, the statement said. He is suspected of having been driving the vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Car surfing is becoming a deadly trend, particularly in California.

According to a CDC report between 1990 and 2008, 58 people died in car surfing accidents alone, while another 41 were injured.

Car surfing clearly becomes more dangerous when alcohol is involved, leading to a greater risk of injury for the skateboarder and a possible California DUI for the driver.

If you or someone you know has been arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in California, it is imperative to consult with an experienced DUI attorney. Contact our California DUI attorneys today. 

Continue reading "Car “Surfing” and California DUI Are a Dangerous Combination" »

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May 25, 2011
  LAPD Vehicles Upgraded To Be More Efficient
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

Residents in Los Angeles can feel safer on the roads as their police officers are now equipped with state-of-the-art police vehicles. With new technology, the LAPD is now able to detect potential criminals or those who are driving on a suspended license out on the road without much effort.  

The new Chevrolet Caprice PPV, or Police Control Vehicle, is not available in the US except for the use by police officers.  Unlike tradition police cars, the new Chevy Caprice utilizes technology and ergonomically designed devices to ensure that officers are more efficient.   The old, bulky computer screen has been removed and in its place, officers can find an embedded screen touch screen that controls all features of the vehicle.  

According to Translogic 55, the 2012 Chevy Caprice PPV offers 355hp, 384 lb. of torque and can go 0-60 in under 6 seconds. A new feature called the ALPR, Automatic License Plate Recognition, scans licenses while the vehicle is on the road without the officer having to manual input the information.   An infrared night vision camera that is attached to the front of the vehicle is so sensitive, that it can pick up on footsteps of criminals that may be fleeing.  If that isn’t enough, the vehicle now includes a clear partition that reduces potential blind spots and the seats are especially designed with cut outs that eliminate potential back pain for an officer while he or she is wearing their belt and gun.  

If you are arrested for a California DUI or driving on a suspended license for a previous DUI, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys for more information.

Continue reading "LAPD Vehicles Upgraded To Be More Efficient" »

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May 25, 2011
  Hand Sanitizer May Lead to Positive Urine Tests for Alcohol
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

Testing positive for alcohol consumption even if you haven’t had a lick of alcohol? It is possible! A new recent study shows that individuals who utilize products that contain alcohol may test positive in a urine test. 

According to an article on MSNBC, frequent use of Purell hand sanitizer, which contains 62% ethyl alcohol, may lead to issues for those who are required to undergo regular drug tests.    A new recent study followed participants as they applied hand sanitizer to their hands every 5 minutes for 10 hours a day for three days which ended up being the equivalent of about 4 ounces.    Unlike an alcohol breathalyzer test that measures the amount of alcohol on your breath, which can dissipate after a few hours, a urine test is usually more accurate and can pick up any type of alcohol, even the kind found in hand sanitizers.

If you have been arrested for a recent driving under the influence charge, contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers today so that we can investigate your case and ensure that you receive the best representation. 

DUI Breathalyzer Test

Continue reading "Hand Sanitizer May Lead to Positive Urine Tests for Alcohol" »

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May 24, 2011
  Accident Hurts 12 Year Old Boy, Driver Arrested for DUI
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A Brawley man has been arrested for a felony driving under the influence after he caused an accident that injured a 12-year-old boy.

Isaac Solorio Beaver, 28, was driving his 1996 Volvo sedan on Worthington Road around 7am on Saturday morning when he failed to stop at a red light. He drove through the intersection and plowed into a Toyota Rav4 driven by Juan Bernal. 

According to IV Press Online, a 12 year old boy that was sitting in the back of the Toyota Rav4, without a seatbelt, was ejected from the vehicle and landed in a dirt median.  Bernal and two other boys, ages 10 and 16, received minor to moderate injuries and were taken to the local hospital. Beaver was arrested for causing a  DUI-related accident after he fled from the scene but was later caught by Highway Patrol officers.

Our California DUI Defense Lawyers understand how difficult it can be to be arrested for drunk driving. Contact us today to find out how we can help you and answer any of your questions.

Drinking and Driving

Continue reading "Accident Hurts 12 Year Old Boy, Driver Arrested for DUI" »

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May 24, 2011
  California High School to Be Transformed into DUI Courtroom
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUi penalty As reported by the Desert Independent, the gymnasium at Palo Verde Valley High School will be transformed into a real courtroom today.

Judge Sarah Christian of Riverside County Superior Court will preside and sentence a real defendant who has been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. The California DUI sentencing will take place in front of the entire student body.

The program-known as "Real Choices…Real Consequences"-is designed to teach students about the legitimate dangers of California DUI by allowing them to witness real court proceedings.

During the assembly, students will:

  • View an actual DUI sentencing.
  • Have an opportunity to ask questions of the judge, attorneys, and the defendant.
  • Learn facts and statistics about DUIs.
  • Understand the consequences of a DUI on individual drivers, crash victims, and local communities.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

If you or someone you know has been arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in California and may soon to entering a DUI courtroom, it is imperative to consult with an experienced DUI attorney. Contact our California DUI attorneys today. 

Continue reading "California High School to Be Transformed into DUI Courtroom" »

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May 20, 2011
  CA DUI Checkpoints 5/20-5/22
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

What is a DUI Checkpoint? A DUI Sobriety Checkpoint is a scheduled stop conducted by local arresting officers to ensure the safety of drivers. During a checkpoint, officers look for signs of intoxication such as blurred vision, slurred speech or even the scent of alcohol.     If officers suspect that you are driving under the influence, they will request that you conduct a DUI field sobriety test. If you are arrested at a DUI check point, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys to find out how we can help you throughout your entire case.

Friday:

Coachella: 5pm-1am – undisclosed location

Escondido: 6pm-12am – undisclosed location

Lompoc:  6pm-1am – undisclosed location

Los Angeles: 8pm-2am – Canoga Ave between Victory Blvd. & Burbank Blvd.

Sacramento: 8:30pm-early morning – Bruceville Rd &Imagination Parkway

Saturday:

Costa Mesa: 6pm-12am – undisclosed location

Los Angeles: 8pm-2am – Manchester Ave. between Main St. & Broadway

Continue reading "CA DUI Checkpoints 5/20-5/22" »

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May 19, 2011
  What Happens When You are Arrested for California DUI with an Out-of-State License?
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI As reported by the Visalia Times Delta, a Garland, Texas, man was arrested Sunday night after being suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and causing a four-car collision in Orosi, according to Officer Scott Harris of the California Highway Patrol.

What happens in cases like this when the driver has an out-of-state license?

If you are arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in California and your license was issued to you by another state, the police cannot take your driver's license. However, that does not mean that you are free and clear of the drunk driving charge. 

As a result of the Interstate Driver's License Compact (IDLC), drivers who are arrested for drunk driving in California may still suffer suspension or revocation of their driving privileges in their home states as well as in California.

The IDLC process differs by state. Some states will enhance any penalties imposed by the California DMV and  California courts and even require that the driver pay additional fines to them. Yet other states may only recognize or take action upon notification of a California DUI conviction in court.

In some cases, the home state will never find out about the DUI arrest because of errors and omissions in the notification process.  If the driver's home state fails to take action to rescind driving privileges, then the driver will still hold a valid driver's license. 

An experienced California DUI lawyer can advise out-of-state drivers whether the IDLC will affect their driving privileges and what they can expect.

Continue reading "What Happens When You are Arrested for California DUI with an Out-of-State License?" »

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May 17, 2011
  Youth Traffic Safety Month Highlights Dangers of Underage California DUI
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUIThroughout the month of May, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is supporting initiatives aimed at enhancing driver safety awareness among teens and encouraging them to adopt safer driving practices.

The timing of Youth Traffic Safety Month coincides with the height of the prom and graduation season, which is often associated with a rise in the number of teen motor vehicle accidents, including DUI-related accidents.

This campaign is extremely important because teens between the ages of 15 and 19 are more likely to be killed in a motor vehicle accident than from any other cause.

Today, most teens have been educated about the dangers of drinking and driving through school-based programs, including the Every Fifteen Minutes Program. Unfortunately, some teens still ignore the dangers. Despite efforts to prevent California DUI among underage drivers, 1,260 drivers under the age of eighteen were still arrested for DUI in California in 2009.

To further understand the negative consequence of drinking and driving, underage drivers are encouraged to consider the legal consequences of a California DUI.

  • California's severeDUI penalties for underage drivers are some of the strictest in the nation.
  • Under California's "Zero Tolerance Law," anyone under 21 years of age with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.01 or greater will be charged with DUI.
  • For teens, this means that consuming just one alcoholic drink can lead to a DUI.

In addition to the penalties outlined above, a DUI arrest can have disastrous effects on an underage driver's current and future goals. High school students may be suspended from extracurricular activities. College applications and admissions can be negatively effected by a DUI conviction, as can future employment.

Given the severity of the consequences, if you or a friend or family member (son or daughter) has been arrested for underage DUI in California, you will need an experienced California DUI attorney.

Continue reading "Youth Traffic Safety Month Highlights Dangers of Underage California DUI" »

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May 16, 2011
  AirTran Pilot Gets Arrested for DUI
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

When most think of being arrested for a California DUI, they assume it only happens when driving a vehicle. However, you can be arrested for a DUI while operating any type of vehicle, whether it is a car, a boat or in this case, a plane.

According to AOL Travel, the pilot of an AirTran flight was arrested for a DUI after a TSA manager smelled alcohol on his breath.  Airport officers were called to administer a breathalyzer test, which came back at .05%.Similar to a commercial driving license, drivers or pilots cannot be over a .04% blood alcohol content level. The AirTran captain has been suspended which the incident is being investigated.

Contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today if you have been arrested for driving under the influence or being under the influence while operating any type of vehicle.    Our California DUI Lawyers have been practicing DUI defense for over a decade and have the knowledge and experience to handle your specific case.

Continue reading "AirTran Pilot Gets Arrested for DUI" »

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May 16, 2011
  High Speed Car and Foot Chase Leads to DUI Arrest
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

A 43-year-old Aromas resident was arrested for driving under the influence after a high-speed chase.

According to the Monterey Herald, the chase began around 3pm when officers received a tip that a map was driving under the influence of drugs. Officers followed the man’s green 1974 GMC truck from the 101 freeway in to the Monterey Vacation RV Park. The driver then drove off, leading police on a chase onto the 101 freeway where he drove his truck into a ditch and began running across the highway and into the field where officers proceeded to try to find the man for 2 hours.   The man however left a female companion, who was later arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance, and his dog in his truck and officers ended up finding prescription drugs, used hypodermic needles and the man’s wallet which led officers back to the Vacation RV Park where he was staying.

Our California DUI Attorneys understand how frustrating it can be to be arrested for driving under the influence. Contact us today to have a dedicated DUI Lawyer answer any questions hat you may have. 

Continue reading "High Speed Car and Foot Chase Leads to DUI Arrest" »

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May 16, 2011
  San Carlos Vice Mayor Arrested for DUI
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

San Carlos vice mayor was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol early Thursday morning.

According to the Mercury News, Andy Klein, 29, was driving and exiting northbound on Interstate 280 when he pulled over on the side of the road to take a phone call at around 1:10am. A sheriff’s deputy noticed the vehicle on the side and though that it may have broken down.   Once the officer pulled over and began speaking with Klein, he noticed the smell of alcohol and proceeded to administer a DUI field’s sobriety test as well as a breathalyzer test.   Klein’s blood alcohol level can back at .08 and he was taken to the county’s First Chance drop-off center that is used for sobering up rather than being taken to jail.  

If you have been arrested for driving under the influence in California, contact our highly qualified and experienced California DUI Attorneys today to find out how we can help you. 

Continue reading "San Carlos Vice Mayor Arrested for DUI" »

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May 10, 2011
  San Diego Officer Arrested for California DUI
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

Officer William Johnson has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence in Chula Vista.

According to San Diego 6, the 12-year department veteran was driving his own vehicle while off duty on Telegraph Canyon Road when he rear-ended a vehicle at a stop light.   Johnson was arrested after causing a DUI-related accident that left other motorists with minor injuries. While the San Diego DUI case is pending, Johnson has been assigned to work a desk assignment. Johnson is the ninth member of his department to be facing criminal charges or be under investigation for possible misconduct

If you have been arrested for a San Diego County DUI, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys as soon as possible so that you can get the best possible representation. 

Continue reading "San Diego Officer Arrested for California DUI" »

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May 10, 2011
  What Are Other Common Field Sobriety Tests Used in California?
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI attorney In yesterday's post, we highlighted the standardized field sobriety tests (FSTs) that you may be asked to perform during a California DUI stop. In addition, many police officials will still conduct other FSTs in order to prove intoxication. 

Specifically, a California driver may be asked to perform one or more of the following tests:

  • Rhomberg Test: The driver is asked to stand with feet together, arms down at the sides, and head tilted back with eyes closed for 30 seconds. If the driver is unable to maintain balance, grossly underestimates or overestimates the passage of 30 seconds, fails to properly follow instructions, or experiences body tremors, he or she may be arrested.
  • Finger-to-Nose Test: Standing in the same position, the driver is asked to touch the tip of the nose with the tip of the index finger, alternating between the left and right hand. The officer will instruct the driver with which hand to perform the test, and in total, will have the individual perform the test three times with the left hand and three times with the right hand. If the driver fails to perform the test to the officer's satisfaction, he or she may be arrested.
  • Finger Count Test: Holding the palm out in front of the body, facing upwards, the driver is asked to touch his or her thumb with the index finger, the middle finger, the ring finger, and the pinky finger, while counting aloud from one to four. The driver is then asked to perform the task in reverse and until three complete cycles have been performed. If the driver fails to perform the task as instructed, he or she may be arrested.

Experienced California DUI Defense Attorneys will carefully review the circumstances in which any field sobriety tests were given. In addition, they will determine whether the testing officer adhered to the required protocols and has received the proper training. If not, lawyers most often can get any testimony given by the testing officer thrown out.

Further information about field sobriety tests and California DUI laws can be found at the California DUI Guide website. Drivers are also encouraged to contact an experienced DUI defense attorney if they are arrested for DUI after a field sobriety test.

Continue reading "What Are Other Common Field Sobriety Tests Used in California?" »

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May 09, 2011
  Only 2 DUI Arrests Made During an Orange County DUI Checkpoint
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

DUI Checkpoints are designed to protect the public as well as other motorists from potentially fatal accidents. However, many times these DUI sobriety checkpoints cause more of a headache for motorists and do not net as many DUI offenders as officials would like.   Tax payers’ money ends up going towards these checkpoints but is it really worth it?

A great example comes from this weekend’s Orange County DUI checkpoint that occurred in Irvine, at Campus Drive and Bridge Road. The DUI checkpoint was scheduled for several hours near the university where one would imagine many college age kids drinking and driving.   According to the OC Register, officers stopped 545 vehicles during the scheduled OC DUI checkpoint.   Out of almost 600 vehicles that passed through, officers conducted 9 DUI sobriety field tests and only arrested 2 DUI offenders.  

Contact our California DUI Attorneys if you have been arrested during a DUI checkpoint in California. Our DUI Lawyers will be able to answer any questions you may have and provide you with the legal advice you may need. 

Continue reading "Only 2 DUI Arrests Made During an Orange County DUI Checkpoint" »

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May 09, 2011
  What Are “Standardized” California Field Sobriety Tests?
Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

California DUI attorney (FSTs) are used by the police to establish probable cause for administering a preliminary breath test or making a California driving under the influence (DUI) arrest.

Unfortunately, FSTs are highly subjective and often unreliable. Even the most trustworthy field sobriety tests are shown to be only 65-77% accurate at detecting whether the driver is DUI.

Therefore, it is important for California drivers to understand the basics of FSTs before they encounter them.

Standardized FSTs were developed after substantial research by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in order to determine the accuracy of FSTs.

Of all of the FSTs studied, the NHTSA found that three tests proved to be most reliable-the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus, the One Leg Stand, and the Walk and Turn. These three FSTs became known as the "Standardized Field Sobriety Tests."

Below is a quick summary of the three tests:

  • Horizontal Gaze (Nystagmus): Officer positions a finger or pen about a foot from a driver's face, moving it from side to side while watching their eyes for jerking or trembling movements.
  • One Leg Stand: Driver stands with heels together, arms against their sides and counts out loud while raising one leg six inches off the ground, testing their balance.
  • Walk and Turn: Officer instructs a driver to take nine to twelve heel-to-toe steps on a line, turn and repeat them back, looking for mistakes or loss of balance.
    Stay tuned to tomorrow' s blog post for information about additional California field sobriety tests!

      Experienced California DUI Defense Attorneys will carefully review the circumstances in which any field sobriety tests were given. In addition, they will determine whether the testing officer adhered to the required protocols and has received the proper training. If not, lawyers most often can get any testimony given by the testing officer thrown out.

      Further information about field sobriety tests and California DUI laws can be found at the California DUI Guide website. Drivers are also encouraged to contact an experienced DUI defense attorney if they are arrested for DUI after a field sobriety test.

      Continue reading "What Are “Standardized” California Field Sobriety Tests?" »

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      May 04, 2011
        Report Suggests that Montebello Is Cashing in on California DUI Checkpoints
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      California DUI checkpoint In a recent article, California Watch highlighted how Montebello may be using California DUI checkpoints to cure a budget shortfall.

      As the article suggests, Montebello is facing a host of financial problems, including fraud allegations by the state and a full audit by the California state controller.

      When state regulators examine the city's books, California Watch claims "vehicle seizures will certainly be part of the mix."

      Here is what California Watch found when they examined Montebello's DUI checkpoints:

      • In Los Angeles County, the city of Montebello requires its tow operator to increase its cut of impound revenue when the police department seizes a higher volume of cars. Tow company Helms and Hill Inc. pays Montebello $200 per tow when officers order more than 151 cars hauled away each month, the city's finance records show.
      • Montebello's DUI checkpoints rank among California's least effective at getting drunks off the road. Last year, officers there failed to conduct a single field sobriety test at three of the city's five roadway operations, state records show.
      • Montebello collected upward of $95,000 during the last fiscal year from checkpoints, including grant money for police overtime.

      The growing evidence of checkpoint abuse suggests that it may be time for California to reconsider its use of DUI checkpoints in terms of how they address both drunk driving and undocumented drivers.

      To learn more about California DUI checkpoint laws, please visit our OC DUI Checkpoints website.

      In addition, if you or someone you know has been arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in California at a California DUI checkpoint, contact our California DUI attorneys today. 

      Continue reading "Report Suggests that Montebello Is Cashing in on California DUI Checkpoints" »

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      May 04, 2011
        Andy Dick Arrested for Public Drunkenness
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      An actor/comedian was arrested and jailed for a misdemeanor drunkenness charge late Monday night in Temecula.

      According to PE.com, Andy Dick, 45, showed up drunk to a Marie Callender’s restaurant and was being argumentative, belligerent and refused to leave. Once officers showed up, they arrested the entertainer and jailed him until he was able to sober up.   This isn’t the first time that Dick had been arrested for public drunkenness as he was arrested and put on probation in 2008 after being extremely intoxicated while pulling down a 17-year-old girl’s shirt and bra.

      Have you been arrested for a DUI or public drunkenness? Contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today to find out more information.

      Continue reading "Andy Dick Arrested for Public Drunkenness" »

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      May 03, 2011
        Desperate Housewives Actor Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Ricardo Chavira, 39, has been arrested for driving under the influence early Tuesday morning in Los Angeles.

      The Desperate Housewives actor was pulled over at 2am for a regular traffic stop. Once officers began to question Chavira, they noticed the smell of alcohol and proceeded to investigate further. According to Radar Online, Chavira is currently being held on $25,000 bail in jail after refusing to take the required blood/alcohol test.  

      Contact our California DUI Attorneys today if you have been recently arrested for driving under the influence in California.   It is important to remember that you have only 10 days to contact the DMV or your license will be automatically suspended; contact our DUI Lawyers so that we can handle that aspect of your case on your behalf. 

      Continue reading "Desperate Housewives Actor Arrested for DUI" »

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      May 02, 2011
        Rocker Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Rick Springfield, 61, was arrested for driving under the influence in Los Angeles over the weekend.

      According to US Magazine, the rocker, known for the song “Jessie’s Girl” was pulled over around 8:00pm for a traffic violation.   Upon investigation, officers noticed a strong alcohol smell and asked Springfield to perform a DUI field sobriety test.   Springfield’s blood alcohol content was over the legal limit at .10 and he was arrested and booked at a nearby jail but was later released on bail

      Contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today for more information regarding driving under the influence charges. Our California DUI Lawyers will be able to answer any questions that you may have and will represent you throughout your entire case.

      Continue reading "Rocker Arrested for DUI" »

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      April 28, 2011
        California Cities Continue to Impound High Number of Vehicles at DUI Checkpoints
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      California DUI checkpoint As we have previously discussed on this blog, California DUI checkpoints have been widely criticized for unfairly targeting minorities and generating huge profits by impounding the vehicles of unlicensed drivers.

      While many California cities, such as Los Angeles, have revised their DUI checkpoint policies to address these concerns, others continue to impound high numbers of vehicles.

       For instance, the Vista Sheriffs Station recently conducted a DUI checkpoint on April 16. Below is a summary of the results:

      • 7 drivers were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
      • 8 Field Sobriety evaluations were conducted on drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol.
      • 41 vehicles were stored and cited due to violations including driving with a suspended license, unlicensed drivers, or as a result of arrest.
      • 47 citations were issued for various violations including: Unlicensed (31), Suspended driver's license (5), Possession of Marijuana in a vehicle (2).

      As detailed above, the DUI checkpoint resulted in seven DUI arrests, while 31 vehicles impounded from unlicensed drivers.

      According to the Examiner, almost all of the unlicensed drivers were Latino illegal aliens. The article further suggests that California DUI checkpoints are ineffective at preventing unlicensed driving as many of those cited were repeat offenders.

      The mounting evidence suggests that it may be time for California to reconsider its use of California DUI checkpoints in terms of how they address both drunk driving and undocumented drivers.

      To learn more about California DUI checkpoint laws, please visit our OC DUI Checkpoints website.

      If you or someone you know has been arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in California at a California DUI checkpoint, contact our California DUI attorneys today. 


      Continue reading "California Cities Continue to Impound High Number of Vehicles at DUI Checkpoints" »

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      April 27, 2011
        More California Bars Installing Breathalyzers
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      California DUI As reported by anewscafe.com, wall-mounted breathalyzer units, like the Alco-Buddy and the Breath Tester, are popping up in California establishments that serve alcohol.

      These devices are marketed to be for "entertainment purposes only," and their ability to prevent California DUI is debatable.

      The Upside

      The breathalyzers are educational. Most California drivers have never used a breathalyzer and have no idea how their blood alcohol content (BAC) may be influenced by the number of drinks they consume.

      "People are often surprised by how little it takes to register a .08," Heston, the Breath Tester distributor, told a reporter. "So it is serving to raise people's awareness of their own limits and knowing when they need to call for a designated driver."

      Even if considered a novelty, the breathalyzer machines do serve as a reminder not to drink and drive.

      The Downside

      The machines may also provide a false sense of security for individuals who score a low BAC reading and are planning to drive. In some cases, this could lead to a California DUI arrest.

      First, it takes a certain amount of time for alcohol to fully metabolize in the body; therefore, if you use the breathalyzer before the alcohol has completely metabolized, your BAC could rise above the legal limit as you are driving home.

      Second, the breathalyzer machines installed in California bars are most often not as accurate as those used by California law enforcement as they do not use the same technology. In addition, the bar patron must use the device properly to get the most accurate result, which may not always be the case if the individual has had a lot to drink.

      Finally, there will always be a few bar patrons that will use the breathalyzer machines for unintended purposes-namely, to see who can score the highest BAC.

      If you are planning to drink, it is best to plan for a designated driver. However, if you are having one or two drinks at one of these California bars, and are curious about how they might affect your BAC, you may want to give the machines a try.

      If you or someone you know has been arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in California, contact our California DUI attorneys today. 

      Continue reading "More California Bars Installing Breathalyzers" »

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      April 25, 2011
        Two-Time DUI Offender Arrested for Third DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Clinton Hornsby, 30, has been arrested for driving under the influence and violation of probation early Sunday night.

      According to Petaluma 360, Hornsby was driving a 1964 Plymouth Wagon on Old Redwood Highway when he failed to come to a full stop and ran through an intersection.   Once California Highway Patrol Officer Anthony Dixon pulled Hornsby over, he noticed signs of intoxication and found out that Hornsby had two prior DUI convictions and was on probation.

      Our California DUI Defense Attorneys are available to answer any questions you may have regarding your recent DUI arrest; contact us now to find out more information.

      Continue reading "Two-Time DUI Offender Arrested for Third DUI" »

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      April 25, 2011
        Solo-Car Crash Results in DUI Arrest
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Oscar Pablo Ocegueda, of Vallejo, was arrested for driving under the influence after crashing his vehicle into an electrical pole.

      According to the Napa Valley Register, 29-year-old Ocegueda was driving a 1998 Chevy Camaro northbound on Highway 29 when he veered and hit a power pole head on, just north of Highway 12.   The accident occurred at 5:30 am and there were no power outages reported.    After officers investigated the scene of the accident, they arrested Ocegueda on suspicion of DUI and he was booked at the Napa County jail.

      If you are arrested for driving under the influence, contact our California DUI Attorneys as soon as possible. We will discuss the details of your case and will answer any questions that you may have. 

      Continue reading "Solo-Car Crash Results in DUI Arrest" »

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      April 21, 2011
        New Cell Phone Searches Do Not Require Warrants
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A new gadget that connects to almost 95% of cell phones may become the next evident-gathering tool used by officers in law enforcement.

      An article on Red Tape MSN describes this gadget as being a universal tool that is a breakthrough in technology.    This device, called the UFED 2.0 or the “Universal Forensic Extraction Device”, can connect to virtually any cell phone and can collect and copy any content that is currently stored on the phone, including contacts, call history and pictures as well as current and deleted text messages.

      Another article about warrants and cell phones indicates that officers in California can search through your cell phone without needing a warrant to do so.   What this means, is that whatever information officers gather from your cell phone can be used as evidence against you, for whatever charge you may be facing.   A cell phone is categorized as an item of personal property and therefore, its contents may be inspected without a warrant.

      Contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today if you have recently been arrested; we have the experience and knowledge to provide you with the best possible representation. 

      Continue reading "New Cell Phone Searches Do Not Require Warrants" »

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      April 21, 2011
        California Highway Patrol Announces “Designated Driver Education Program”
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      California dui Acknowledging that enforcement alone will not prevent drunk driving in California, the California Highway Patrol has announced that, during the next several months, it will conduct a grant-funded public education and awareness program with a focus on educating drivers about the dangers of DUI and the devastation it causes.

      According to the CHP, the Designated Driver Program is designed not only to educate the public about the dangers of drinking and driving, but also to encourage and reward those who choose not to drink in order to safely drive others home.

      The "Designated Driver Education Program" grant will fund the production of public service announcements; educational materials will be also produced and distributed statewide.

      In support of the program, CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow stated, "Nobody ever thinks it's going to happen to them. They think it happens to other people. Anytime an impaired motorist is on the road, not only do they put themselves at risk, they're putting the lives of everyone else around them in danger."

      California drivers are reminded that the best way to avoid a California DUI is to designate a driver or call a taxi. However, if you find yourself arrest for driving under the influence, it is imperative to contact an experienced California DUI attorney.

      Continue reading "California Highway Patrol Announces “Designated Driver Education Program”" »

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      April 20, 2011
        Accident in Orange County Results in DUI Arrest
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A man in Orange County has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after he crashed into a vehicle as well as a vacant building.

      According to the OC Register, a man driving a pickup truck was speeding on Knott Street when he ran a red light at West Chapman Avenue. The truck then veered, hit another vehicle and continued 100 yards before crashing into a vacant building at 12072 Knott St.   Both the truck driver and the female driving the other vehicle were taken to local hospitals with minor injuries.

      If you have recently been in a DUI related accident, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today to find out how we can help you get the best possible outcome in your specific case.

      Continue reading "Accident in Orange County Results in DUI Arrest" »

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      April 19, 2011
        California Driver Kills Pedestrian, Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A 23-year old Walnut Park driver has been arrested for manslaughter and driving under the influence Monday morning.

      According to CBS Local, Luis Jimenez was driving eastbound on California St. when he drove through a stop sign and lost control of his vehicle.   Jimenez’s vehicle then hit a 42-year-old male pedestrian who later died at a local hospital. Jimenez only suffered minor injuries and was arrested for a California DUI and manslaughter.

      Our California DUI Defense Lawyers understand how frustrating it can be to be charged with driving under the influence; contact us today to find out how we can help you.

      Continue reading "California Driver Kills Pedestrian, Arrested for DUI" »

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      April 19, 2011
        California DUI Suspect Hits CHP Officer Assisting Other Driver
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      California dui attorney As reported by the Mercury News, a California Highway Patrol officer was struck and injured by when an alleged drunken driver crashed into a pickup truck the officer was trying to dislodge from the mud.

      The officer, Skyler Tesch, 31, was trying to assist the driver of a Chevrolet pickup truck that had spun out and become stuck in the mud, partially blocking the far-right lane.

      Tesch and his partner had parked the patrol car, with its lights flashing, behind the pickup and set up road flares to block the right lane of traffic.

      However, 20-year-old Stevone Jones of San Jose veered into the lane and crossed over the flares, smashing into the pickup truck at a speed of 65 mph. Tesch was thrown 20 feet down the highway and suffered a broken leg.

      Jones was arrested on a felony charge of driving under the influence.

      Because California felony DUI cases can result in far greater penalties, it is important that DUI offenders seek representation from skilled California DUI attorneys who are experienced with felony DUI cases and who can help minimize the potential DUI penalties. 

      Continue reading "California DUI Suspect Hits CHP Officer Assisting Other Driver" »

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      April 14, 2011
        25 Year Old CA Female Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A three-vehicle crash in Napa County has resulted in two injuries as well as a driving under the influence arrest.

      According to the Napa Valley Register, the accident occurred on Highway 29 south of St. Helena around 11:15pm Monday night. Janice Ho, 25, was driving a 2000 BMW when she rear-ended a 2001 Volkswagen Passat which then stuck a Nissan pickup truck. Two of the motorists were taken to the local hospital with complaints of pain.   Around 2am, Ho was arrested and booked into Napa County jail on driving under the influence causing injury and driving without a license.

      Contact our California DUI Attorneys if you have been arrested for a California DUI; we have the experience and knowledge to handle any type of DUI case. 

      Continue reading "25 Year Old CA Female Arrested for DUI" »

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      April 14, 2011
        CA Coach Arrested for DUI During Field Trip
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A Gilroy high school track and field coach was arrested for driving under the influence during a school athletic field trip.

      According to Gilroy Dispatch, 37 year old Alvin Harrison was driving a van when he collided with another vehicle on Highway 73 in the evening. The two-time Olympic gold medalist has been charged with driving under the influence causing bodily injury and driving with a suspended license.   Harrison is being held on a $50,000 bail at an Orange County jail and awaiting an April 19 th court appearance.

      If you have been arrested for a DUI-related accident, contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers to find out how we can help you.

      Continue reading "CA Coach Arrested for DUI During Field Trip" »

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      April 14, 2011
        Pregnant Woman Killed in California DUI Accident
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      California felony DUI As reported by Fox 40 in Sacramento, a pregnant woman and her unborn child were killed in a suspected California DUI accident on April 2.

      According to California Highway Patrol, 24-year-old Miguel Almanza was DUI when he crashed into Juan Rodriguez and his family. Rodriguez's wife, who was 7-months pregnant, was pronounced dead at the scene.

      "At times it's very frustrating when you go and you see repeat consequences of someone who made a very foolish decision to get behind the wheel when they're impaired and under the influence of alcohol," said Sergeant Ben Moser. "Anytime someone dies as a result of that, it's tragic."

      Almanza is facing charges of felony DUI and gross vehicular manslaughter.

      As the story highlights, a California drunk driving accident that results in the death of another almost always will be treated as a felony.

      Because California felony DUI cases can result in far greater penalties, it is important that DUI offenders seek representation from skilled California DUI attorneys who are experienced with felony DUI cases and who can help minimize the potential penalties. 

      Continue reading "Pregnant Woman Killed in California DUI Accident" »

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      April 13, 2011
        San Diego Cop Allegedly Drove Drunk
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A San Diego police officer is under investigation for driving under the influence and fleeing the scene of an accident.

      According to CBS8, 41-year-old David Hall, a motorcycle traffic officer for the city of San Diego, is being accused of crashing his brown GMC into a gray Chevy Suburban on Murray Ridge Road at the on ramp to the I-805. The female driver of the Chevy Suburban claims that Hall took off without stopping while Hall says that he did stop and left after the woman said she was okay.  Once officers located Hall at his Linda Vista residents, he submitted to a breathalyzer test that proved Hall’s blood alcohol level was three times the legal limit.

      If you have recently been in a DUI-related accident, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today to find more information. 

      Continue reading "San Diego Cop Allegedly Drove Drunk" »

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      April 12, 2011
        Orange County Judge Gives Preferential Treatment To Friends
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

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

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

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

      Continue reading "Orange County Judge Gives Preferential Treatment To Friends" »

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      April 12, 2011
        Dangers of California DUI Highlighted by Every Fifteen Minutes Program
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      California DUI penalties As reported by The-Signal.com, the city of Santa Clarita, the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff's Station, and Hart High School officials recently conducted the Every 15 Minutes program at Hart High School.

      The nation-wide program educates high school students regarding the severe dangers of reckless driving, speed contests, drinking alcohol and driving, and distracted driving and texting using several emotion, real-world scenarios.

      During the first part of the program, one student was removed from class every 15 minutes—giving the program its name. A police officer then entered the classroom to read an obituary written by the "dead" student's parents, explaining the circumstances of the tragic accident and memorializing their child.

      Students also participated in a DUI-simulated collision scene, which was set up near the school on Newhall Avenue, depicting fatalities and serious injuries to several students.

      The Los Angeles County Sheriff Department's Air-5 rescue helicopter was used to simulate an airlift of a critically injured student to a local hospital. Several other "injured" students were treated at the scene by the Los Angeles County Fire Department and taken to a local hospital.

      The drunk driver was arrested and taken to the Santa Clarita Superior Court where a simulated DUI trial was held.

      Finally, participating students met with community members who have experienced real-life drunk driving related tragedies in their family, and counselors spoke to them about how it feels to lose a loved one in a DUI-related accident.

      If you or a friend or family member (son or daughter) has been arrested for underage DUI, you will need an experienced California DUI attorney.

      Continue reading "Dangers of California DUI Highlighted by Every Fifteen Minutes Program" »

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      April 11, 2011
        Head-On Collision Results in DUI Arrest
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A 60 year old Grass Valley man has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after causing a head-on collision.

      According to The Union, Patrick Anderson was driving his Nissan pickup truck on the northbound Highway 174 when he crossed the double-yellow center line, directly in front of a jeep.   The jeep driver, 67-year-old Bill Durant, tried to brake but could not avoid the accident and was taken to a local hospital with moderate injuries. Anderson, however, was flown by helicopter to a hospital where he is listed in critical condition and is being charged with a California DUI and causing bodily injury.

      If you have been in a DUI-related accident, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today; we will answer any questions that you have, provide you with legal advice and inform you of what you could be facing. 

      Continue reading "Head-On Collision Results in DUI Arrest" »

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      April 08, 2011
        California DUI Checkpoints - Weekend of 4/8
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      If you plan on going out this weekend, please be advised of the below California DUI checkpoints that may be near you; however, there may be others throughout the weekend that are not listed.

      During DUI checkpoints, officers look for signs of intoxication and require motorists to perform DUI field sobriety tests. If you are arrested during a California DUI checkpoint, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys to find out how we can help you!

      Friday:

      Bakersfield: evening – undisclosed location

      Costa Mesa: 7pm-1am – Newport Blvd. & 17 th St.

      Escondido: 6pm-12am- undisclosed location

      La Habra: 7:30pm-3am – undisclosed location

      Lompoc: 6pm-12am – undisclosed location

      Los Angeles: 8pm-2am – La Brea Ave between Coliseum St. & Rodeo Rd.

      Newport Beach: 9pm-3am – Jamboree Rd & Santa Barbara Dr.

      Sacramento: 8:30pm-3am – Howe & University Ave.   

      Santa Clarita: 6pm-2am – undisclosed location

      Yorba Linda: 7:30pm-3am – undisclosed location

      Saturday:

      Gardena: 7:30pm-2:30am – Rosecrans Ave. at Denker Ave.

      Long Beach: 6pm-2am – West Division area

      Continue reading "California DUI Checkpoints - Weekend of 4/8" »

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      April 07, 2011
        Woodland Man Arrested for California DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A 42 year old California man was arrested for driving under the influence early Tuesday afternoon.

      According to the Daily Democrat, Douglas J. Tadlock was driving his 1992 Ford SUV when he was seen weaving on County Road 102 near CR-16. Once officers pulled Tadlock over, they noticed signs of intoxication and noticed an open bottle of alcohol in the front passenger seat. Officers conducted an investigation and arrested Tadlock for a California DUI.

      If you have recently been arrested for driving under the influence, contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers today to find out information about what you could be facing and how we can help you. 

      Continue reading "Woodland Man Arrested for California DUI" »

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      April 06, 2011
        Palm Springs Again Ranks Highest in DUI-related Accidents
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin
      California dui accident Out of 98 cities its size in California, Palm Springs had the most alcohol-related crashes in 2009 according to a new report by the California Office of Traffic Safety—a total of 67.

      The report indicated three fatalities resulted from these accidents.

      Palm Springs has held the dubious distinction in eight of the past nine years despite spending nearly $800,000 in state grants to combat its DUI problem over the past decade.

      The city is well known as a “party town.” In fact, Palm Springs has nearly 200 restaurants and bars serving alcohol.

      In good news, the number of DUI accidents actually decreased nine percent from 2008 to 2009.

      “We're trying to find a balance between having the entertainment center downtown and having these numbers come down,” said Palm Springs City Manager David Ready. “We're pleased that the numbers are starting to go in the right direction.”

      If you or someone you know has been arrested for suspicion ofdriving under the influence in California, contact our California DUI attorneys today.
      Continue reading "Palm Springs Again Ranks Highest in DUI-related Accidents" »

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      April 04, 2011
        Head-On Collision Results in Felony DUI Arrest
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A head-on crash has resulted in two major injuries and a driver being arrested for felony driving under the influence.

      According to KSBY, Fullerton resident Faustino Barcenas, 49, was driving west on Highway 46 when he drifted into the eastbound lane.   A driver, Pablo Elgarrista, was traveling eastbound when he saw Barcenas drifting and immediately pulled over to avoid being hit; Barcenas did hit Elgarrista’s vehicle’s left side but continued driving where he eventually caused a severe head-on collision with 3.7 year old Maria DeJesus Garcia of Fresno.   Both drivers’s had to be extricated from their vehicles and both were taken to hospitals for surgery.  Faustino Barcenas was arrested for felony DUI due to the severe injuries that Garcia sustained.

      If you have been in a DUI-related accident, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys immediately; we will represent you throughout the case and make sure that you receive the best possible outcome of your specific case. 

      Continue reading "Head-On Collision Results in Felony DUI Arrest" »

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      April 04, 2011
        California Cities Announce Results of St. Patrick’s Day DUI Patrols
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin
      California saturation patrolLong Beach
      The Long Beach Police Department's Traffic Enforcement Division conducted an eight-hour DUI saturation patrol throughout the city on March 19. The operation featured 13 police officers who patrolled the city looking for impaired drivers.

      The officers made 2 DUI arrests, 1 narcotics arrest, and 1 felony arrest; issued citations to 8 unlicensed drivers and drivers with suspended licenses; impounded 6 vehicles; and issued 88 miscellaneous traffic tickets and 41 parking tickets.

      San Diego
      According to police officials, St. Patrick’s Day DUI checkpoints and saturation patrols in and around San Diego resulted in twenty-four arrests. A checkpoint on Mission Bay Drive screened more than 1,400 drivers. The checkpoint resulted in 19 DUI arrests, 17 impounded vehicles, and a felony narcotics charge. Thirty additional drivers were detained for sobriety evaluations but not arrested.

      DUI saturation patrols were also conducted in the Pacific Beach, Mission Beach, and Gaslamp Quarter areas. The saturation patrols resulted in 5 DUI arrests, 37 citations, 12 field sobriety tests, and 3 impounded vehicles.

      The locations of California DUI checkpoints are always available on this blog as well as Twitter.

      Residents of Orange County can also visit the OC DUI Checkpoints website to find out about checkpoint locations.

      If you or someone you know has been arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in California at a sobriety checkpoint, contact our California DUI attorneys today.



      Continue reading "California Cities Announce Results of St. Patrick’s Day DUI Patrols" »

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      April 01, 2011
        Orange County Man Arrested After DUI-Related Accident
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      An Orange County man was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after he caused a DUI-related accident.

      According to the OC Register, the driver was going northbound on the I-5 when he crashed into a pillar underneath the 91 freeway. The crash caused the vehicle to land on its side and catch on fire; the driver was examined but had no visible injuries. Officers had the driver perform a DUI field sobriety test before they arrested and took him to the Orange County Jail.

      Have you been in a DUI-related accident? Contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today to learn more information about your DUI case. 

      Continue reading "Orange County Man Arrested After DUI-Related Accident" »

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      April 01, 2011
        Teens Badly Hurt in California DUI Accident Involving Pocket Bike
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin
      California DUI Two Santa Cruz teens were badly hurt March 19 when they crashed their Honda “pocket bike” into a Nissan in Live Oak, the California Highway Patrol reported. The driver was arrested on felony DUI causing injury and felony child endangerment charges.

      As reported by the Santa Cruz Sentinel, 19-year-old Gavin Hunt and a 13-year-old male passenger were riding the small “pocket bike”—which had no lights and was not registered for street use—on Mattison Lane in Live Oak. As Hunt approached Maciel Avenue, the bike collided with a Nissan Z.

      Neither of the teens was wearing a helmet. Both suffered major injuries and were airlifted by helicopter to nearby hospitals.

      As this story demonstrates, you do not have to be driving a car to be arrested for a California DUI. While they are often thought of as “toys,” anyone operating a pocket bike on a public street is subject to the same laws applicable to the driver of any other vehicle. This includes driving under the influence laws and DUI penalties.

      If you or someone you know has been arrested for a felony DUI in California, contact our California DUI attorneys today.
      Continue reading "Teens Badly Hurt in California DUI Accident Involving Pocket Bike" »

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      March 31, 2011
        Los Angeles Man Arrested for DUI, Officers Find Multiple Guns
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A Los Angles man has been arrested for driving under the influence Wednesday evening.

      According to Pasadena Star News, 42-year-old Aaron Pyke was pulled over for speeding on the 2 Freeway in Altadena. During the DUI investigation, the driver informed officers that he had guns in his vehicle. Officers uncovered several guns, 547 total rounds of ammo as well as a loaded Beretta that was the only registered gun. Pyke was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and carrying a loaded firearm in a vehicle.

      Contact our California DUI Lawyers today to find out more information how we can help get you the best possible sentencing in your specific DUI case. 

      Continue reading "Los Angeles Man Arrested for DUI, Officers Find Multiple Guns" »

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      March 31, 2011
        California Man Arrested for DUI After Multi-City Chase
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A California man has been arrested for driving under the influence, drug possession, drug use and assaulting a police dog after he led officers in a 3am high-speed chase.

      Scott Balbirnie of Long Beach was driving erratically in Orange County when officers tried to pull him over. Instead, Balbirnie lead officers on a chase through Huntington Beach, Westminster and Seal Beach.  The OC Register states that after multiple requests and announcements for Balbirnie to exit the vehicle, officers used a tactic to break his windows to get him out; however, the driver continued to resist and began punching the K-9 that was being used.   Officers Tasered the driver and noticed that he was nude from the waist down; Balbirnie was taken into custody and booked at the OC Jail after he was treated for dog bites.

      Have you or someone you know been arrested for driving under the influence? Contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers today; we will answer any questions you may have, provide you with legal advice and will assist you throughout your entire case. 

      Continue reading "California Man Arrested for DUI After Multi-City Chase" »

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      March 31, 2011
        Actress Jaime Pressly Concerned About Image After California DUI Arrest
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin
      California DUI Like many people facing a DUI conviction, Hollywood actress Jaime Pressly is concerned about her image following her recent California DUI arrest. Her lawyer, Rich Hutton, has revealed to People.com that the actress feels that the DUI charge does “not represent” who she is.


      Her attorney further stated, “She's concerned about how the arrest will affect her image because she feels this situation is unjustified.”

      The actress has pleaded not guilty to charges stemming from her January 5 arrest in Santa Monica after a failed field sobriety test. Pressly reportedly had a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of 0.22 percent, significantly more than legal limit of 0.08 percent. Prosecutors have charged the actress with driving under the influence as a misdemeanor offense.

      The star is also dealing with her divorce from Simran Singh, but Hutton says she's maintaining a positive attitude.

      Hutton added: “She's a wonderful woman. She's doing great. She takes this DUI case very seriously. She's upset, but overall—aside from this—she's doing very well.”

      Being arrested for a California DUI can be a traumatic experience. Therefore, it is important to have an experienced and knowledgeable DUI defense attorney.

      If you or someone you know has been arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in California, contact our California DUI attorneys today.
      Continue reading "Actress Jaime Pressly Concerned About Image After California DUI Arrest" »

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      March 30, 2011
        48 Year Old Woman Arrested After High-Speed Chase
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Shelly Corinne Davis was arrested after leading officers on a high speed chase from Ripon to Stockton as she had a warrant out for a previous driving under the influence charge.

      The 48 year old Sacramento woman was driving a 1999 Toyota Tacoma pickup truck near Colony Road and Highway 99 on ramp when officers tried to pull her over for registration and mechanical violations. The Modbee states that Davis failed to make the stop and instead, took off at speeds of more than 100 mph; Davis was finally stopped when officers used a spike strip.   Officers state that Davis fled due to the fact that she was driving with a suspended license and had a warrant out for her arrest.

      If you were recently arrested for driving under the influence or driving on a suspended license, contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers today. 

      Continue reading "48 Year Old Woman Arrested After High-Speed Chase" »

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      March 29, 2011
        Rancho Cordova Man Flips Own Car, Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A 21-year-old man has been arrested for a California DUI after he caused a one car collision.

      According to the Daily Democrat, Nathan Gordon Johnson Meyer from Rancho Cordova was driving his 2003 Ford Ranger northbound on the I-5 freeway at around 70-80 mph. Meyer made an unsafe turn, ran off the road, striking a metal fence before rolling his truck at around 3:25am.   Meyer was taken to the local hospital with minor lacerations to his face and pain in his left hand before he was arrested for driving under the influence.

      If you were recently in a DUI related accident, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today; we will answer any questions you may have, provide you with legal advice and represent you during both the DMV and criminal court process.

      Continue reading "Rancho Cordova Man Flips Own Car, Arrested for DUI" »

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      March 28, 2011
        Head-On Collision Results in DUI Arrest
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A white Ford Explorer caused a head-on collision which resulted in four injuries and the driver being arrested for a felony DUI.

      The Ford Explorer was driving southbound on the northbound Arroyo Seco Parkway when they hit a blue Toyota Prius head on, causing the Ford Explorer to flip around 10:50pm.  According to the Daily Breeze, one of the passengers had to be extracted from the vehicle and all were taken to the local hospital with injuries.  

      Have you been in a recent DUI related accident? If so, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today; we have the experience and knowledge to assist you throughout your case. 

      Continue reading "Head-On Collision Results in DUI Arrest" »

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      March 25, 2011
        San Diego Man Arrested for DUI After Hit-and-Run
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A hit-and-run San Diego man has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence early Friday morning.

      According to Sign on San Diego, the Spring Valley man was driving a 2000 Chevrolet pickup eastbound on Jamacha Road when he ran a red light and broadsided a 2001 Lincoln Navigator. The SUV’s female driver was taken to a local hospital with head injuries.   Jose Espinoza, the 21-year-old driver of the pickup, fled from the scene however officers were able to locate him 20 minutes following the crash.     Espinoza was arrested on suspicion of felony hit and run, causing an injury and driving under the influence.

      If you have been in a DUI-related accident, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today to find out how we can help you. 

      Continue reading "San Diego Man Arrested for DUI After Hit-and-Run" »

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      March 24, 2011
        Norwalk Woman Killed, Suspected of Driving Drunk
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Alma Berenice Limon Arredondo of Norwalk is believed to be driving under the influence when she fatally crashed her vehicle in Lynwood.

      According to the Contra Costa Times, the 24 year old was driving her silver 2005 Ford Mustang when she crashed into and went under the back of a tow vehicle carrying a truck.   The DUI related accident occurred at 12:02am on the southbound 710 freeway, north of the 105 freeway.   The 34 year old driver of the tow vehicle, David Celis, was not injured. The female driver’s boyfriend was driving behind her and was arrested for driving under the influence and is being under investigation for potentially chasing the woman.

      Our sincere condolences to the friends and family of Arredondo; if you have been in a DUI accident, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today. 

      Continue reading "Norwalk Woman Killed, Suspected of Driving Drunk" »

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      March 23, 2011
        DUI Related Accident Results in DUI arrest
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A motorist driving a Lexus IS300 crashed their vehicle and has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

      According to the Contra Costa Times, the Lexus driver was driving on the 5 freeway, just north of East Burbank Boulevard when she crashed her vehicle into the back of a truck at around 1:40am. The truck driver reported the crash and the female Lexus driver was taken to a hospital however no injuries were reported. The Lexus driver has been booked into Glendale jail on a California DUI bond.

      If you have been in DUI-related accident, contact our California DUI defense attorneys today; we are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week to answer any questions hat you may have. 

      Continue reading "DUI Related Accident Results in DUI arrest" »

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      March 23, 2011
        “Dirty DUI Arrests” by California Deputy Sheriff
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin
      California DUI According to the San Francisco Chronicle, court documents have revealed that a Contra Costa County sheriff's deputy told two colleagues he was making "dirty DUI" arrests on behalf of a private investigator who was setting up men for a California DUI in order to damage their reputations in legal disputes, largely divorces and custody battles.

      Deputy Stephen Tanabe, 47, told a reserve sheriff's deputy on patrol with him the night of January 14 that a DUI arrest they were making outside a Danville bar was a "setup" and that the arrestee was being intentionally "dirtied" for a future court date in a divorce case.

      According to an affidavit, Tanabe was working with a private investigator who had been hired by the target's wife for $5,000. The deputy is suspected of receiving "financial benefits" for the DUI arrest, the document said.

      Tanabe, an Alamo resident, was arrested Friday night on suspicion of drug and weapons crimes but has not been charged. He is free on $260,000 bail.

      If you or someone you know has been arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in California, contact our California DUI attorneys today.
      Continue reading "“Dirty DUI Arrests” by California Deputy Sheriff" »

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      March 17, 2011
        Strange But True: Man Takes Swig of Beer During DUI Stop
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin
      California DUI While the DUI arrest did not take place in California, this odd DUI story warrants sharing.

      According to Fox 8 News in Cleveland, police pulled over 25-year-old Stephen Supers because officers had observed him speeding. Upon being asked if he had been drinking, Supers took a swig from an open container in his vehicle and proudly responded, “Yes.”

      Supers failed a series of sobriety tests shortly thereafter.

      He is charged with driving under the influence, driving under suspension, and possession of marijuana.

      Clearly, Mr. Supers exemplifies what NOT to do during a traffic stop. So what should you do if the officer asks if you have been drinking?

      •    While you are required to give your name, license, and registration to the police officer, you do not have to answer any questions.

      •    If the officer asks you if you’ve been drinking or how much—and you're concerned that you might incriminate yourself—you do not have to answer. Simply say, “I’m sorry, officer, but I’ve been advised not to answer any questions.”

      •    If you only had one drink with dinner, it may be preferable to answer the question since one drink will generally not put you over the legal limit.

      •    If you answer a question, tell the truth because if it is later discovered that you have lied, it can be used against you in court.

      If you or someone you know has been arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in California after a traffic stop, contact our California DUI attorneys today.


      Continue reading "Strange But True: Man Takes Swig of Beer During DUI Stop" »

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      March 16, 2011
        Deputies Praised For Multiple DUI Arrests
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A California deputy is being recognized by the city council for her achievements, productivity and professionalism in making multiple arrests, including DUI. According to the OC Register, Deputy Christine Chang arrested three people after she found 50 heroin-filled balloons on top of other arrests throughout the year.

      What most citizens do not realize, is that officers are often encouraged to be overzealous in making DUI arrests. Oftentimes, officers make up reasons for a stop, making it unlawful, and even conveniently have their patrol videos turned off until after the stop is initiated. Officers should be trained in administering DUI field sobriety tests; however, most times they do not give the proper instructions, causing the motorist to inadvertently fail the tests.

      If you have been recently arrested for driving under the influence, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys.   Our lawyers are certified by NHTSA and will be able to inform you whether your stop and arrest were done lawfully and how we will be able to help you. 

      Continue reading "Deputies Praised For Multiple DUI Arrests" »

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      March 16, 2011
        DUI Risk High on St. Patrick’s Day
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin
      California DUI California drivers are cautioned about the risks of drinking and driving this St. Patrick’s Day. While drinking green beer is a tradition for many on this holiday, it could lead to a California DUI arrest.

      According to statistics by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, on St. Patrick’s Day 2008, 37 percent of the drivers and motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or above.

      In an effort to prevent such fatalities, police will be conducting sobriety checkpoints in cities across California on St. Patrick’s Day as well as the following weekend.

      If you plan on going out and drinking on St. Patrick’s Day, there are several tips on avoiding a DUI such as:
      •    Designate a driver
      •    Plan on calling a cab
      •    Call a friend or family member

      Drivers are also encouraged to visit the OC DUI Checkpoint website to find out about sobriety checkpoints scheduled for Orange County.

      If you find yourself arrested at a sobriety checkpoint, contact your local California DUI Defense Attorney to find out more information on what you could be facing as a DUI offender.   
      Continue reading "DUI Risk High on St. Patrick’s Day" »

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      March 15, 2011
        Fresno Woman Guilty in 2nd Degree Murder, Felony DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A Fresno woman has been found guilty in the death of her boyfriend as well as two felonies for drunken driving and driving under the influence of drugs.

      Seneca Turner, 29, intentionally ran over her boyfriend, 48-year-old Sendy Thomas, in January 2010. According to Mercury News, Turner was drunk and had both cocaine and marijuana in her system at the time of the accident. Turner has been charged with second degree murder as well as two DUI felonies.

      If you have been involved in a DUI-related accident, contact a qualified and knowledgeable California DUI Defense Lawyer today.

      Continue reading "Fresno Woman Guilty in 2nd Degree Murder, Felony DUI" »

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      March 15, 2011
        Tulare Police Officer Charged With California DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin
      California DUI accident According to the Visalia Times-Delta, an off-duty Tulare police officer was driving under the influence when she crashed her cruiser.

      The officer, Shannon Oliver, 41, was found walking away from her police car when Visalia officers responded to reports of a single-vehicle DUI accident around 9:40 p.m. According to police, Oliver hit two road signs before crashing into a chain link fence on the side of the road.

      Oliver's blood-alcohol level was .22, which is nearly three times the legal limit of .08. She has been placed on administrative leave and is set to appear in court April 12 on DUI charges.

      According to the Tulare Police Department, “Officers are not above the law. If they’re accused of wrong doing, they’ll go through the process just like anyone else.”

      If charged and convicted with the DUI misdemeanor violation, Oliver will be faced with restitution fines associated with fence, sign and vehicle repair, according to Assistant District Attorney Shani Jenkins.

      If you or someone you know has been arrested for suspicion ofdriving under the influence in California, contact our California DUI attorneys today.
      Continue reading "Tulare Police Officer Charged With California DUI" »

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      March 14, 2011
        Underage Woman Arrested for DUI in Napa
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A young Napa woman has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after she was stopped for speeding.

      Rachel Kathleen Zock, 20, was driving 76mph in a 60mph zone on Highway 29 when she was stopped around 9:55pm Saturday night. According to the Napa Valley Register, officers could smell alcohol in the vehicle and asked Zock to perform a DUI field sobriety test, when she proceeded to punch and kick the officers.

      Zock was taken to the local hospital where a blood test was performed; it was at the hospital when officers realized that Zock was using the identity of her 21 year old sister in order to avoid arrest.  Zock has been arrested on suspicion of DUI, impersonating another and obstructing and delaying an officer.

      If you are arrested after performing a DUI field sobriety test, contact a leading California DUI Defense Lawyer.

      Continue reading "Underage Woman Arrested for DUI in Napa" »

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      March 14, 2011
        San Diego Man Causes Fatal Accident, Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A suspect has been arrested in San Diego for driving under the influence after a fatal rollover crash occurred around 2:10am.

      A white sedan was heading north on the 5 freeway when the driver lost control; the female passenger ended up getting trapped in the vehicle and died at the scene.  According to Sign on San Diego, another passenger was hospitalized and the driver was not injured but taken into custody.

      Our heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of the female passenger; if you have been in a DUI-related accident, speak with our experienced and knowledgeable California DUI Defense Attorneys today.

      Continue reading "San Diego Man Causes Fatal Accident, Arrested for DUI" »

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      March 14, 2011
        Proving Marijuana DUI in California
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin
      California DUI Drugs California DUI law makes it illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana. However, a skilled lawyer often has an easier task defending marijuana-related DUI cases than cases where alcohol is involved.

      In drunk driving prosecution, the defendant is presumptively guilty when the blood alcohol level is 0.08 percent or more. By contrast, there is no set legal threshold for when a person is presumptively impaired when using marijuana. This lack of a bright line standard makes it more difficult for the prosecution to prove their case.

      In addition, a knowledgeable attorney can often defend these cases successfully by relying on experts and various studies showing lack of scientific agreement on when marijuana causes impairment. Scientific and expert literature on the subject contains data that there is no impairment if the ingestion occurred more than two to three hours before driving.

      If you are facing any type of DUI-related charge, it is imperative to contact an experienced DUI attorney.

      Continue reading "Proving Marijuana DUI in California" »

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      March 11, 2011
        Grass Valley Woman Crashes Car, Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Lori Ann Minick, 24, was arrested for driving under the influence after she crashed her vehicle in Grass Valley around 9:30pm Wednesday night.

      According to The Union, Minick was driving north on Ridge Road south of Via Colina when she ran off the road and hit a retaining wall. Minick had two small children inside the car at the time of the accident; a 3 month old was uninjured but a 6 year old was taken to the Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital with minor injuries.    Minick was arrested for a California DUI and causing bodily injury as well as child endangerment and is currently being held on $35,000 bail.

      Have you been in a DUI-related accident? If so, retaining a reputable California DUI Defense Attorney could greatly benefit you; speak with our California DUI lawyers today to find out more information on how we can help you. 

      Continue reading "Grass Valley Woman Crashes Car, Arrested for DUI" »

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      March 10, 2011
        Woodland Police Sergeant Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A Woodland police sergeant has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

      Sgt. Steven E. Sexton, 52, was driving a 2004 Triumph motorcycle around 4:30pm Monday when he was stopped by the California Highway Patrol.  According to the Daily Democrat, officers noticed signs of intoxication and determined that Sexton was riding his motorcycle while under the influence of alcohol.

      If you or someone you know has been arrested for a driving under the influence of alcohol and or drugs, speak with our California DUI Defense Attorneys today. 

      Continue reading "Woodland Police Sergeant Arrested for DUI" »

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      March 10, 2011
        25 Year Old Arrested After Causing DUI-related Accident
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Shiloh McGillicuddy, 25, has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after causing an accident on Highway 101.

      According to Marin Scope, the Novato man was driving his 200w Saturn SL1 northbound on the 101 freeway when he hit the center divider wall a few times before finally stopping; the Saturn was then hit by several vehicles, causing a total of eight cars to be involved in the collision.   No major injuries were a result of the accident however two unlicensed drivers were issued citations.

      If you or someone you know has been driving under the influence or has caused a DUI-related accident, speak with our California DUI Defense Attorneys today. 

      Continue reading "25 Year Old Arrested After Causing DUI-related Accident" »

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      March 09, 2011
        23 Year Old Sentenced to 6 Years in Prison for Fatal DUI-related Accident
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A 23 year old California woman will spend the next 6 years in jail for a felony drunk-driving causing injury case that occurred last year.

      Jessica Lynn Shekell, from Anaheim, was driving drunk on the wrong side of the 91 freeway on October 26, 2010 when she crashed head on with a truck. The truck driver, 49 year old Sally Miguel died on the scene and her 30 year old sister Patricia Miguel, who was a passenger, died hours later.   Two young girls, Mary Miguel, 15, and Sara Miguel, 11, suffered major injuries but survived the accident.    According to the OC Register, Shekell was driving with a blood-alcohol level of 0.26%, which is three times the legal limit.

      Have you been in a DUI related accident? If so, contact our California DUI Lawyers today to find out how we can help you.

      Continue reading "23 Year Old Sentenced to 6 Years in Prison for Fatal DUI-related Accident" »

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      March 09, 2011
        22 Year Old Driver Crashes Car, Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Nancy J. Sierra, 22, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence on State Route 299 early Tuesday morning.

      According to Contra Costa Times, Sierra was driving in her 2000 Honda Accord when the vehicle went off the road, striking a power pole.  Sierra’s passenger, 26 year old Amanda L. Nikola suffered a broken clavicle while the driver suffered minor injuries.   Both women were taken to the local hospital where upon release Sierra was arrested for a felony DUI.

      If you have been in a DUI-related accident, contact an experienced California DUI Attorney to find out what consequences you could be facing. 

      Continue reading "22 Year Old Driver Crashes Car, Arrested for DUI" »

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      March 08, 2011
        ESPN Radio Host Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A known radio personality has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence in Skokie.

      Harry M. Teinowitz, 50, known for being on ESPN 1000’s hit radio show The Afternoon Salon was driving his Nissan SUV on Greenwood Street around midnight when officer’s pulled him over. According to the Huffington Post, Teinowitz was stopped for improper lane usage and was subsequently arrested for a DUI as officers noticed signs of intoxication; Teinowitz is being held on a $1,000 DUI bond.

      Speak with an experienced and knowledgeable California DUI Attorney if you have been recently arrested for driving under the influence

      Continue reading "ESPN Radio Host Arrested for DUI" »

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      March 07, 2011
        Veil Man Arrested for DUI after Killing California Pedestrian
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      David Matthew Perzanowski, 29, has been arrested and charged with driving under the influence and vehicular homicide after he caused a vehicle-pedestrian collision.

      According to RealVail.com, Perzanowski was driving a 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee when he struck 32-year-old Lewis Edward Cook III as he was walking on the side of the road. Officers arrived on scene and were unsuccessful in performing CPR.   Perzanowski is being held on a $15,000 California bail.

      Contact a leading California DUI Defense Lawyer if you have been in a DUI-related accident

      Continue reading "Veil Man Arrested for DUI after Killing California Pedestrian" »

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      March 07, 2011
        Woman Arrested for DUI after Fatal Hit and Run
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Shannon Richard, 43, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and vehicular manslaughter.  

      According to keyt.com, Richard was driving with her two year old in her 2008 Mitsubishi when she hit Jose Luis Carmona, 40, as he was walking beside his mountain bike.   Richard left the scene and was found at her home nearby where she claimed she hit an animal.   Unfortunately, Carmona has died from blunt force injuries. Richard is out on bail but scheduled to be arraigned later this week.

      If you have been in a DUI related accident, contact an experienced California DUI Attorney to find out how we can help you and will provide you with California DUI laws and what you could be facing. 

      Continue reading "Woman Arrested for DUI after Fatal Hit and Run" »

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      March 04, 2011
        March 4-5 California DUI Checkpoints
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Before you go out this weekend, make sure to have a plan of action so that you can avoid getting a California DUI. Have a friend be the designated driver or hire a taxi before you go out and drink. The list below is designed to provide you with the local DUI/Drivers License Checkpoints that will be going on both Friday and Saturday this weekend.

      Friday, March 4th:

      Coachella: 7pm-2am – undisclosed location

      Inglewood: 8pm-3:30am – undisclosed location

      Lynwood: 6pm – 2am – undisclosed location

      Modesto: evening – undisclosed location

      Oakland: 6pm-2am – undisclosed location

      Pacoima: 8pm-2am – Van Nuys Blvd. between Laurel Canyon Blvd. & Remick Ave.

      Rancho Cordova – 8pm-2am – undisclosed location

      Seal Beach: 6pm-3am – First Street & Pacific Coast Highway

      Saturday, March 5th:

      Los Angeles: 8pm-2am – La Brea Ave. between Rodeo Blvd. & Exposition Blvd.

      If you are arrested at a DUI Checkpoint, contact a California DUI Defense Attorney as soon as possible so that we can help you keep your license and provide you with the best representation throughout your case. 

      Continue reading "March 4-5 California DUI Checkpoints" »

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      March 03, 2011
        Man Arrested After Driving 35 Miles With Wife on the Hood
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Christopher Carroll, 36, was arrested for attempted murder and suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs.

      According to KGO AM 810, Carroll was allegedly under the influence of drugs including methamphetamines when he was pulling out of his drive way. Carroll’s wife attempted to stop him from leaving and jumped on the hood of the vehicle but got stuck.  Carroll then proceeded to drive for 35 miles at speed up to 100 mph as his wife held on until she fell off onto the highway. The wife was taken to the hospital for treatment while Carroll has been arrested and may also face charges of kidnapping and spousal abuse.

      Contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today if you have been in a DUI-related accident

      Continue reading "Man Arrested After Driving 35 Miles With Wife on the Hood" »

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      March 02, 2011
        23 Year Old Mother Arrested for DUI After Crashing SUV
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A 23-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after she crashed her SUV.

      The North Bay woman and her three children were driving in Santa Rosa when the SUV crashed into a guardrail and went over an embankment, causing the driver and two children to be ejected from the vehicle. According to KTVU.com,   the driver and her 2 year old boy and 6 year old girl are being treated at the Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital while the third child, a 4 year old girl, was airlifted to the Children’s Hospital in Oakland.    The driver said she was having an argument with her husband about her drinking habits before she got into the car with her children and caused the accident.

      If you or someone you know has been in a DUI-related accident, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today to find out how we can help you.

      Continue reading "23 Year Old Mother Arrested for DUI After Crashing SUV" »

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      March 02, 2011
        Top Ten California DUI Statistics You May Not Know
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin
      California DUI attorney 1. The median (midpoint) age of an arrested DUI offender in 2008 was 30 years.

      2. Among convicted DUI offenders arrested in 2007, 73.6% were first offenders and 26.4% were repeat offenders (one or more prior convictions within the previous 10 years).

      3. The median blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of a convicted DUI offender, as reported by law enforcement, was 0.15% in 2007, almost double the California illegal per se BAC limit of 0.08%.

      4. In total, 20.4% of all 2008 California DUI arrests occurred in Los Angeles County.

      5. Five counties (Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside) had over 10,000 DUI arrests each, accounting for 48.8% of all arrests.

      6. Males comprised 80.2% of all 2008 DUI arrests.

      7. In 2008, Hispanics (45.5%) represented the largest ethnic group among DUI arrestees as they have each year since 1992.

      8. In 2007, 78.8% of DUI arrests resulted in convictions of DUI offenses.

      9. The court sanction most frequently applied to all convicted DUI offenders in 2007 was probation (95.8%), while the least frequently used court sanction was ignition interlock (5.3%).

      10. At the end of 14 years, 30% of DUI offenders originally convicted in 1994 had at least one subsequent DUI conviction, and 33% incurred at least one DUI incident.

      *Data provided by the 2010 Annual Report of the California DUI Management System

      If you or someone you know is arrested for DUI, it is imperative to contact a qualified DUI lawyer. Contact our California DUI attorneys today.

      Continue reading "Top Ten California DUI Statistics You May Not Know " »

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      March 01, 2011
        Christina Aguilera Arrested for Being Drunk
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Christina Aguilera, 30, has been arrested for being drunk in public early Tuesday morning.

      The famous singer was a passenger in a car that was pulled over by a West Hollywood nightclub.  According to the LA Times Blog, the driver was arrested for driving under the influence and Aguilera was also arrested for public drunkenness; she has been released on a $250 DUI bail.

      If you have been arrested after drinking, contact a leading California DUI Attorney to learn about DUI laws that may work in your favor. 

      Continue reading "Christina Aguilera Arrested for Being Drunk" »

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      February 28, 2011
        How a New Orange County DUI Checkpoint Website Can Help You
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Do you plan on going out this weekend? Check out the new Orange County DUI Checkpoint website before you go!

      DUI sobriety checkpoints are designed to deter motorists from drinking and driving.   These check points can be found in areas that are known for DUI arrests or are close to bars and restaurants.   The new OC DUI Check Point website is your one-stop-shop for past times and locations of checkpoints  and current DUI checkpoints in Orange County as well as other information that can be helpful to you.  

      Check out the tips for avoiding an Orange County DUI as well as what to expect at an OC Checkpoint. If you are arrested during a checkpoint, you have a right to fight a DUI charge. Contact our leading Orange County DUI Lawyers today for more information! 

      Continue reading " How a New Orange County DUI Checkpoint Website Can Help You" »

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      February 28, 2011
        27 Year Old Hits & Kills Transient, Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Nicholas Arthur Thibault, 27, has been arrested and booked on suspicion of driving under the influence as well as vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence.

      The San Diego resident was exiting the 805 freeway when he swerved off the ramp, hitting the bushes. Unfortunately, a transient was camping in the bushes when he was struck and killed by Thibault.  According to SFGate, Thibault was booked in a San Diego jail and is being held without bail.

      If you have been arrested for driving under the influence, speak with one of our California DUI Defense Attorneys today for more information.  

      Continue reading "27 Year Old Hits & Kills Transient, Arrested for DUI" »

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      February 25, 2011
        Ex-MADD President Arrested for a DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A former Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) president has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

      Debra Oberlin, 48, from Gainesville, Florida was veering her vehicle across lanes when officers pulled her over around 1:10am.  According to an article on AOL News, Oberlin told officers she had only 4 beers before driving; however, tests proved her blood alcohol levels were three times that of the legal limit.   Officers noticed she showed signs of intoxication such as bloodshot and dilated eyes and smelled of alcohol so they had her perform DUI field sobriety tests before they arrested her.

      Have you been arrested for drunk driving in California? Contact our experienced and knowledgeable California DUI Attorneys today to see how we can help you. 

      Continue reading "Ex-MADD President Arrested for a DUI" »

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      February 25, 2011
        February 25-27 Weekend California DUI Checkpoints
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      The weekend is upon us and that means that cops will be out and about, patrolling cities and conducting DUI sobriety checkpoints.  The list below provides you with information on certain cities; however, it is not a complete list of California DUI checkpoints that may be in your area.   If you are going to be out drinking, designate a driver or call a taxi to make sure that you are safe.  

      Friday:

      Inglewood: 8pm-3:30am – on Florence Avenue at Centinela Avenue

      Los Angeles: 8pm-2am – Ventura Blvd. between Noble Ave & San Diego Freeway Sherman Oaks

      Riverside: 6pm-2am – undisclosed location

      San Marcos: 7pm-2:30am – undisclosed location

      Saturday:

      Hemet: 8pm-2am – undisclosed location

      Escondido: evening – undisclosed location

      Lompoc: 6pm-midnight - undisclosed location

      Oxnard: 6pm-2am – undisclosed location

      San Francisco: 8:30pm-1am – Geary Blvd & 9 th Ave.

      If you do find yourself arrested for driving under the influence, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys immediately for more information.

      Continue reading "February 25-27 Weekend California DUI Checkpoints" »

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      February 24, 2011
        San Joaquin County Credits Court Program for Reduction in DUI Deaths
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin
      California DUI DUI-related accidents and deaths have decreased in San Joaquin County in large part due to a program targeting repeat DUI offenders.

      According to the San Joaquin County Superior Court, between 2008 and 2009, 16 fewer people in the county died in DUI-related accidents.

      The program, funded by a $570,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, targets people who have been convicted of DUI for a second or third time.

      After being released from jail, they begin reporting regularly to the judge, who determines the level of monitoring needed. The 756 participants are required to make regular court appearances, submit to drug and alcohol testing, and participate in 12-step recovery programs.

      "We're doing really high-maintenance, hands-on things with people," said San Joaquin County Superior Court Judge Richard Vlavianos. "We're doing active monitoring."

      The DUI Court is a collaboration of the court, San Joaquin County District Attorney's Office, and the office of the San Joaquin County Public Defender.

      In addition to programs for repeat offenders, many California courts and District Attorney Offices have recognized the value of sentencing alternatives for first time offenders in lieu of jail time and as part of plea bargain agreements.

      An experienced California DUI attorney can fully explore the various sentencing alternatives to insure that their clients obtain the best possible outcomes.
      Continue reading "San Joaquin County Credits Court Program for Reduction in DUI Deaths" »

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      February 23, 2011
        57 Year Old Man Arrested for DUI After Crashing into Stopped Car
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A 57 year old Chico resident has been arrested and booked on suspicion of driving under the influence.

      James McFadden Jr. was driving his Mercury Mountaineer near the Skyway overpass when he took the 20th Street off ramp. The Chico ER states that officers were following him as his car matched the description of a vehicle that was said to be driving recklessly when they watched him crash his car into a Ford Escape that was stopped at a stop light. McFadden was asked to perform field sobriety tests and was taken into custody and booked at the local jail.

      If you have been arrested for a drunk driving, contact our California DUI Lawyers to find out more information on how we can help you. 

      Continue reading "57 Year Old Man Arrested for DUI After Crashing into Stopped Car" »

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      February 22, 2011
        Pacifica Man Arrested for DUI After Hit & Run
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      57 Year Old Leopoldo Tobilla hit and killed a pedestrian and has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence, leaving the scene and vehicular manslaughter.

      Mercury News states that officers received a call around 1:36am of a dead man on Skyline Boulevard in Pacifica.   Within 30 minutes of officers arriving at the scene, Tobilla returned and admitted to sticking the man as he was walking in the lanes of traffic.   Officers determined Tobilla was under the influence of alcohol when he hit the pedestrian and he was arrested and booked at the local jail in San Mateo County.

      Have you been arrested for a DUI-related accident? Contact a leading California DUI Lawyer to find out how we can help you. 

      Continue reading "Pacifica Man Arrested for DUI After Hit & Run" »

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      February 22, 2011
        22 Year Old Woman Hits and Kills Cyclist, Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A 22-year-old woman from Newport Coast has been arrested and booked on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter as well as driving under the influence after she hit a cyclist.

      A middle-aged man was enjoying a bike ride along San Joaquin Road in Corona Del Mar when the young woman hit him at around 6pm Monday night.  The man was pronounced dead at the scene. Corona Del Mar Today states that although the crash remains under investigation, the woman appeared to be under the influence of alcohol and has been booked with bail set at $100,000.

      As avid cyclists, our DUI defense law office sends our condolences to the family and friends of the cyclist.    If you have been in a DUI-related accident, contact our Orange County DUI Attorneys today to find out how we can help you.

      Continue reading "22 Year Old Woman Hits and Kills Cyclist, Arrested for DUI" »

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      February 18, 2011
        Can a Bicyclist Be Charged Under California DUI Laws?
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin
      Technically, a bicyclist cannot be charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in California because a bicycle is not a “vehicle” under California DUI laws. However, the California Vehicle Code contains a separate provision ( Section 21200.5) making it unlawful to ride a bicycle on any public street while under the influence of alcohol (or drugs).

      California DUI Five riders learned this answer the hard way when they were arrested for bicycle DUI in California earlier this month. According to the Associated Press, at approximately 1:30 a.m., Baldwin Hills police officers responded to a report of a group of erratic cyclists and a subsequent accident.

      Upon arrival, the officers discovered 14 bicyclists gathered around the injured rider. According to the officers, the bicyclists were not wearing helmets or reflective clothing, and there was a strong odor of alcohol coming from the area of the riders.

      As in any California drunk driving case, the bicyclists were asked to perform field sobriety tests. Five bicyclists, including the injured rider, were subsequently arrested and cited for bicycle DUI.

      Although typical California DUI penalties do not apply, a bicyclist may be incarcerated until he or she is sober and fined up to $250 dollars. In addition, while the bicyclist may face a criminal conviction, it will not affect his or her driving record or automobile insurance.

      Since the laws for driving under the influence in California can differ, it is advisable to contact an experienced California DUI attorney if you are arrested or cited for driving any vehicle (car, bicycle, boat, etc.) under the influence of alcohol.
      Continue reading "Can a Bicyclist Be Charged Under California DUI Laws?" »

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      February 17, 2011
        Detroit Tiger's Baseman Arrested on Suspicion of DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Miguel Cabrera, All-Star first baseman for the Detroit Tigers, was arrested on suspicion of a DUI.

      Cabrera was in St. Lucie County, Florida when his vehicle was having issues; he was pulled over on the side of the road when officers noticed smoke coming out of the hood of his car.  According to Fox Sports Detroit, officers noticed signs of intoxication such as a strong odor of alcohol, his speech was slurred and his eyes were bloodshot and watery.  

      Officers noticed Cabrera take a drink out of a bottle of James Buchanan Scotch before he walked towards the road with his hands up.  When officers asked him to return to the vehicle, he did not comply and officers handcuffed him as he resisted.   Cabrera was booked into St. Lucie County jail but released on a $1,350 bond.

      If you have been arrested for driving under the influence, contact our California DUI Defense Attorney today to find out how we can help you.  

      Continue reading "Detroit Tiger's Baseman Arrested on Suspicion of DUI" »

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      February 16, 2011
        DUI Offenders Must Provide Proof of Ignition Interlock Device
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Turlock police officers visited 116 high-risk DUI offenders who failed to provide proof of installing an ignition interlock device, or IID, on their vehicles.

      These IIDs are designed to prevent California DUI offenders from operating vehicles if they have been drinking.   In order for the car to start, the user must blow into the device and resister a below a certain predetermined blood alcohol level.   The data from the IID is then downloaded and sent to the court files for review by the district attorney.  

      According to the Modesto Bee, officers found 29 violators, 6 of which were in compliance but had not reported to the DMV, 22 had their licenses suspended and 1 resisted and was booked on an obstruction charge.  

      Ignition interlock devices are a convenient and easy way in allowing those who have been arrested for DUIs to continue driving.   If you have been arrested for driving under the influence, contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers to find out if you are eligible for an IID. 

      Continue reading "DUI Offenders Must Provide Proof of Ignition Interlock Device" »

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      February 16, 2011
        Terra Linda Students Participate in Real California DUI Trial
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin
      As reported in the Marin Independent Journal, 400 high school students were recently given the opportunity to observe a real DUI trial in their school’s performing arts center.
      California DUI penalties The trial was the first for Marin Superior Court, which hopes to hold similar proceedings at every high school in the county over a two-year period.

      After opening and closing arguments and testimony from two California Highway Patrol officers and a Department of Justice criminalist, Marin Superior Court Judge Kelly Simmons and a mock youth jury found the defendant, 29-year-old Amy Martinez, guilty of driving under the influence.

      Simmons sentenced Martinez, a first-time DUI offender who had driven home after drinking two beers after work last August, to three years of probation and fined her $1,725, plus other fees. Martinez will not have to pay the full fine because of her participation in the program.

      The proceedings were intended to drive home the consequences of drinking and driving to high school students as well as expose them to the DUI criminal court process in California.

      If you or someone you know has been arrested for DUI in Marin County, contact an experience Marin County DUI defense attorney for more information.
      Continue reading "Terra Linda Students Participate in Real California DUI Trial " »

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      February 15, 2011
        Costa Mesa Checkpoint Scheduled For Wednesday Evening
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      The Costa Mesa police department will be conducting an Orange County DUI checkpoint Wednesday evening.

      According to the City of Costa Mesa press release, the check point will be on the 2300 block of Placentia Avenue between the hours of 6pm and 11pm.   During these checkpoints, officers will look for signs of intoxication and may ask motorists to conduct field sobriety tests.

      If you are arrested for a DUI in Southern California, speak with our Orange County DUI Defense Attorneys today. 

      Continue reading "Costa Mesa Checkpoint Scheduled For Wednesday Evening" »

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      February 15, 2011
        Orange County DUI Checkpoint Results
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Four motorists were arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence during a DUI checkpoint in Costa Mesa over the weekend.

      The Orange County Register states that on top of these 4 DUI arrests, 22 drivers were asked to do DUI field sobriety tests, 17 driver’s licenses were investigated and 11 cars were towed.  With over 429 vehicles that traveled through the checkpoint, only 1% was actually related to DUIs; this means that the grant from the Office of Traffic Safety that funds these checkpoints may not be an effect way of protecting the public from impaired drivers and may actually be wasting more money than necessary.   

      Have you been arrested for a DUI during a check point?   If so, speak with our Orange County DUI Defense Lawyers today to find out how we can help you. 

      Continue reading "Orange County DUI Checkpoint Results" »

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      February 15, 2011
        75 Year Old California Man Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Billy George, 75, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after he hit a California Highway Patrol vehicle.

      According to the Red Bluff Daily News, the Corning man was driving west on South Avenue when he was pulled over.   As the officer was exiting his vehicle, George began to back up and crashed into the officer’s car.  The officer noticed signs of intoxication and blood tests proved George was over .08%.  

      If you have been in a DUI-related accident, speak with a qualified California DUI Attorney today.   

      Continue reading "75 Year Old California Man Arrested for DUI" »

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      February 14, 2011
        Fresno Woman Crashes After High Speed Chase, Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A Fresno woman has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after she caused a DUI-related accident.  

      According to ABC Local, Tina Adame was driving at high speeds when cops tried to stop her. She ran stop signs and red lights to get away from the cops until she crashed into an almond tree on Olive Avenue; the driver and her two passengers in the car were not hurt.   Adame was taken to the Merced County Jail and held on a $52,000 bail.

      If you have been arrested for a DUI in Fresno, contact a leading Fresno DUI Defense Attorney to find out what we can do for you.   

      Continue reading "Fresno Woman Crashes After High Speed Chase, Arrested for DUI" »

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      February 14, 2011
        America’s “Drunkest” Cities: Three California Cities in the Top Ten
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Although California has some of the most severe drunk driving penalties in the country, three California cities have been ranked the “drunkest” in America.

      Fresno DUI According to USA Today, Fresno will receive the dubious distinction of being named the country’s “drunkest” city in the March issue of Men’s Health magazine.

      Two other cities in California—  Riverside (#4) and Bakersfield (#10)—also made the top ten.


      In contrast, Boston was named the least drunk city.

      To determine its rankings, the magazine used data such as death rates from alcoholic-induced liver disease, DUI-related accidents, frequency of binge drinking, number of DUI arrests, and severity of DUI penalties.

      The results should not come as a total surprise to residents of Fresno. The median age in Fresno is 29, and the number of bars within 15 miles is 106, according to HomeInsight.com.

      In response to the magazine’s ranking, it is likely that the city will continue to step up its efforts to combat DUI with increased sobriety checkpoints in the coming months.

      If you or someone you know is arrested for DUI in Fresno, it is imperative to contact a qualified DUI lawyer. Call our knowledgeable Fresno DUI attorneys today.

      Continue reading "America’s “Drunkest” Cities: Three California Cities in the Top Ten " »

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      February 11, 2011
        Lake County City Attorney Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Steven John Brookes, 53, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after he was involved in a DUI-related accident.

      Brookes, a city attorney for the city of Lakeport, was driving a Volvo on Main Street Kelseyville when he crossed a lane and hit a Ford F-350.  The incident occurred at 7:10pm and Brookes drove away from the scene but was later located and arrested for a DUI.   According to the Lake County Record Bee, Brookes was booked into county jail at 9:30pm and was later released.

      If you have been arrested for a California DUI, contact an experienced and knowledgeable California DUI Defense Attorney to find out more information on what you could be facing and how we will fight for your rights. 

      Continue reading "Lake County City Attorney Arrested for DUI" »

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      February 11, 2011
        Weekend DUI Checkpoints in California
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      California DUI checkpoints are designed to protect the public from motorist who are driving under the influence.  When conducting these checkpoints, police officers look for signs of intoxication such as slurred speech, bloodshot or water eyes or even alcohol odor.  If officers notice any of these signs, they may require the driver to conduct DUI field sobriety tests.   Because these sobriety test must be done according to specific guidelines, there is room for error; if you have been arrested during a checkpoint or after failing a field sobriety test, contact an experienced California DUI Defense Attorney immediately.

      The list below includes several cities that will be conducting DUI checkpoints; however, there may be additional locations that are not listed. If you will be drinking this weekend, assign a designated driver so that you do not put yourself and others at risk.

       Friday:

      Escondido: evening undisclosed location

      Fairfield: 6pm-11pm – undisclosed location

      Lake Forest: 6:30pm-2:30am – undisclosed location

      Los Angeles: 8pm-2am – Sepulveda Blvd. and Orion Avenue

      Newport Beach: 9pm-3am – Northbound Newport Blvd. at Finley

      Ontario: 6pm-2am – undisclosed location

      Redondo Beach: 7:30pm-2:30am – undisclosed location

      Saturday:

      Costa Mesa: 7pm-1am – Newport Blvd. at Flower St.

      Lake Forest: 7pm-2am – undisclosed location

      Norco: 7pm-3am – undisclosed location

      Sunday:

      Santa Barbara: 6pm-2am – undisclosed location 

      Continue reading "Weekend DUI Checkpoints in California" »

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      February 10, 2011
        Ventura County Man's Crash Causes Gas Leak, Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A Ventura County man has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after he crashed his vehicle into a home.

      The Ventura County Star reports that the 26-year-old man was on the road at around 1:38am when he lost control of his vehicle on a turn causing his car to drive through a fence and hit a gas line before it struck a home in Ojai.   Due to the gas leak, several neighbors were forced to evacuate for a half hour. The driver of the vehicle was arrested and booked into the county jail.

      If you have been in a DUI-related accident, contact our Ventura County DUI Defense Attorneys today to find out how we can help you. 

      Continue reading "Ventura County Man's Crash Causes Gas Leak, Arrested for DUI" »

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      February 10, 2011
        Santa Clara County Man Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Sergio Montgomery has been arrested without incident and booked into county jail on suspicion of driving under the influence.

      The Santa Clara County man was driving a 1977 Ford pickup when officers suspected him of driving while intoxicated and tried to pull him over.   Mercury News states that Montgomery then fled on Highway 17 early Wednesday morning.   California Highway Patrol was able to finally catch Montgomery by placing a spike strip on the highway, near Granite Creek Road.

      If you have been arrested for a DUI in or around Santa Clara County, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys to find out what we can do for you. 

      Continue reading "Santa Clara County Man Arrested for DUI" »

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      February 09, 2011
        MTV Reality Star Arrested for DUI in Orange County
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Shane Sheckler, 18, was arrested in San Clemente on suspicion of driving under the influence.

      The actor, who stars alongside his real-life brother in “Life of Ryan”, was driving his white GMC truck when officers pulled him over. OC Weekly says Sheckler was driving his truck erratically and once stopped, he showed obvious signs of intoxication.   Sheckler was taken to a nearby jail, was released several hours later and is due back in court next month.

      If you are under the age of 21 and have been arrested for a Southern California DUI in or around Orange County, contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers today. 

      Continue reading "MTV Reality Star Arrested for DUI in Orange County" »

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      February 08, 2011
        Woman Arrested for DUI After Crashing Golf Cart
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A 48 year old woman was arrested after she caused a DUI-related accident while driving a golf cart in Hidden Valley Lake.   

      Deborah Selna, 48, along with her two female passengers were all intoxicated when they were riding on a red 200 Yamaha golf cart.  According to the Lake County Record-Bee, Selna was operating the golf cart at a high speed when she lost control, hit a tree and caused the golf cart to roll over and land on its roof.   All three women were taken to the hospital as the driver and a passenger suffered major injuries while the third woman only suffered moderate injuries.

      Contact a local DUI Defense Attorney if you have been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence while operating any type of vehicle. 

      Continue reading "Woman Arrested for DUI After Crashing Golf Cart" »

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      February 08, 2011
        18 Year Old Crahses Vehicle and Kills Teenager, Arrested on Suspicion of DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Sean Quintero, 18, was arrested for vehicular manslaughter while driving while intoxicated as well as gross negligence and driving under the influence causing injury.

      Mercury News states that the South San Francisco teen was driving his mother’s Toyota when he slammed into the back of another vehicle.   The impact, which occurred around 3:20am on Highway 101, caused a 17-year-old girl to be killed and injured the three other passengers who are all between the ages of 17 and 18.   Quintero has been held without bail and if convicted, he could be facing up to 11 years in prison.

      If you have been in a DUI-related accident, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys immediately. 

      Continue reading "18 Year Old Crahses Vehicle and Kills Teenager, Arrested on Suspicion of DUI" »

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      February 07, 2011
        DUI-Related Accident in San Bernardino County Kills Backseat Passanger
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Russell Hanson, 32, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and vehicle manslaughter.

      According to the Redlands Daily Facts, Hanson was driving a 2007 GMC Yukon on the 210 Freeway where he crashed his vehicle into a 1994 Lincoln Town Car that was stopped on the side of the road.   A man sitting in the back of the Lincoln, age 77, was killed at the scene while the two other passengers suffered injuries and were hospitalized at Loma Linda University Medical Center.  Firefighters cut out the window to remove the critically injured driver as well as cut the roof off to rescue a 76-year-old woman.

      Our condolences to the family and friends of the victim; if you or someone you know has been in a DUI-related accident, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys.    

      Continue reading "DUI-Related Accident in San Bernardino County Kills Backseat Passanger" »

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      February 04, 2011
        Man Suspected of DUI Crashes into Gas Line, 20 Homes Evacuated
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A La Habra neighborhood of about 20 homes was forced to evacuate when a man suspected of driving under the influence crashed into a natural gas line.

      According to the Contra Costa Times, the crash occurred at 9:34pm Thursday. The driver crashed his SUV into a fence and ruptured a gas line which produced a loud hissing sound and had about 30 pounds per square inch of pressure. Crews were able to finally shut off the broken pipe at around 1:30am and the OC Register has confirmed that residents were able to go back to their homes early Friday morning.

      If you have been in a DUI related accident, contact an experienced and knowledgeable Orange County DUI Defense Attorney for more information. 

      Continue reading "Man Suspected of DUI Crashes into Gas Line, 20 Homes Evacuated" »

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      February 03, 2011
        Driver of 18-Wheeler Arrested for DUI-related Accident
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A semi-truck driver has been arrested for driving under the influence when he crashed into a center divider of the 101 freeway in Studio City and then slammed into a minivan.

      According to JusticeNewsFlash.com, the 18-wheeler was traveling eastbound on the Ventura Freeway, near Laurel Canyon when he caused the accident around 6:10am.   Both the trucker and the minivan driver were rushed to the local hospitals; the minivan driver sustained greater injuries than the truck driver.

      If you have been involved in a DUI-related accident, contact our Los Angeles County DUI Defense Attorneys today. 

      Continue reading "Driver of 18-Wheeler Arrested for DUI-related Accident" »

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      February 02, 2011
        Huntington Beach Bar Under Investigation
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Huntington Beach’s Baja Sharkeez is under investigation for being the reason why motorist are driving under the influence in downtown Huntington Beach.

      Based on DUI arrest data, 72 Sharkeez customers were arrested for DUIs within a 22 month period.  The HB Independent states that the Department of Alcohol Beverages Control is conducting the investigation as they believe that the bar is causing an excessive problem with alcohol-related issues.     Ron Newman, Sharkeez owner, believes that officials are targeting his Huntington Beach bar due to its popularity and even scout out customers to arrest once they leave the bar.  

      Contact our Orange County DUI Lawyers if you have been arrested for driving under the influence. 

      Continue reading "Huntington Beach Bar Under Investigation " »

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      February 02, 2011
        Chico Woman Causes DUI-Related Accident
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Elizabeth Ann Holmes, 51, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol and prescription medication when she caused a roll over crash.  

      ChicoER.com states that Holmes was driving on the Skyway in Chico when she leaned over to grab a bite of Chinese food, not realizing that there was an upcoming right turn.   Holmes’ car was heading off the shoulder when she over corrected, sending her car off the road and flipping it.   Holmes was wearing a seatbelt and only suffered moderate injuries; she was arrested on scene and released to the ambulance to be taken to the local medical center.

      Have you been arrested for a DUI-related accident? If so, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys for a free initial consultation and to find out more information regarding your case. 

      Continue reading "Chico Woman Causes DUI-Related Accident" »

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      February 01, 2011
        OC Man Crashes Porsche, Suspected of DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Raymond Carter was driving a Porsche when he lost control and crashed the vehicle; Carter is suspected for driving under the influence and DUI blood tests have been performed to determine the driver’s blood-alcohol level and to

      According to the Orange County Register, Carter, 29 years old, was driving over 100 mph when he hit a curb and went airborne before he hit a light pole and landed on the roof.   Local fire fighters had to cut through the wreck to remove Carter and his 32 year old passenger Brandon Whitaker.  Both men were taken to the local hospital, where Carter is in a coma and Whitaker is listed in stable condition.

      Contact a qualified Orange County DUI Defense Lawyer if you have been recently involved in a DUI related accident

      Continue reading "OC Man Crashes Porsche, Suspected of DUI" »

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      February 01, 2011
        Adema Rocker Arrested for Previous DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      David DeRoo, singer and bassist for the band Adema, was arrested and charged with driving under the influence causing bodily injury.

      According to Courant.com, DeRoo was charged with being a fugitive from justice and has been held on a $1 million bond.   Adema was just about to go on stage at the Webster Theater in Connecticut on Saturday night when DeRoo was arrested.   DeRoo had previously pleaded no contest after a traffic collision in 2008 in Bakersfield and a warrant for his arrest was issued in June 2010 for violation of probation.

      If you or someone you know has been arrested for a DUI in Bakersfield or surrounding cities, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today.   

      Continue reading "Adema Rocker Arrested for Previous DUI" »

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      January 31, 2011
        Actor Arrested for DUI in Santa Cruz County
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Alan Tudyk was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence in Soquel.  

      According to the Santa Cruz Sentinel, the “Dodgeball” and “Death at a Funeral” actor was stopped at around 1am after CHP officers saw his Land Cruiser speeding 40 mph in a 25 mph zone.   Tudyk declined a breathalyzer test but he did fail a field sobriety test and was arrested without incident.

      Field sobriety tests must be done in accordance to specific guidelines and oftentimes, officers fail to administer them correctly. If you have been arrested after failing a field sobriety test, contact our Santa Cruz County DUI Defense Attorneys to find out how we can help you.

      Continue reading "Actor Arrested for DUI in Santa Cruz County" »

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      January 28, 2011
        California Weekend DUI Checkpoints
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Multiple cities in California will be conducting driver’s license and sobriety checkpoints to help reduce the amount of alcohol-related accidents.   Starting Friday evening and going through Sunday, motorists can expect to come across check points where local police officers will be checking for signs of intoxication.  

      If you find yourself arrested at a sobriety checkpoint, contact your local California DUI Defense Attorney to find out more information on what you could be facing as a DUI offender.   

      The list below features a few of the checkpoints that will be occurring this weekend; however, there could be more in other cities.  For your safety and the safety of others, please do not drink and drive.

      Friday:

      Carson– 7pm-3am – unknown location

      Coachella – 7pm-2am – unknown location

      Escondido – Evening – unknown location

      Gardena– 7:30pm – 3:30am – El Segundo Blvd. at Halldale Avenue

      Moreno Valley – 6pm-11:30pm – unknown location

      Oakland– 6pm-2am – unknown location

      Rialto– 7pm-1am – unknown location

      San Diego – 10pm-5am – unknown location

      Studio City – 8pm-2am – Ventura Blvd, between Coldwater Canyon Ave and Fairway Avenue

      Saturday:

      Costa Mesa – 7pm-1am – Baker St at Bear Street

      Fontana– 6pm-1:30am – unknown location

      Pasadena– 7pm-3am – unknown location

      Ventura– 8pm-3am – unknown location

      Sunday:

      Lompoc– 6 pm-evening – unknown locations

      Continue reading "California Weekend DUI Checkpoints" »

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      January 28, 2011
        Temecula Mother Causes DUI Accident, 9 Year Old Daughter Killed
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Karen Honeycutt of Temecula has been arrested on three counts of DUI causing injury and on suspicion of murder of her 9 year old daughter Chloe.

      PE.com states that the 41 year old mother was driving her 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee near Redhawk Parkway when she lost control of her vehicle.   The car hit a tree and a concrete light pole in a center divider, causing Chloe and a 17 year old sibling to be ejected from the vehicle. Chloe was pronounced dead at the hospital, the 17 year old broke their back and the third sibling, an 8 year old boy that had his seatbelt on, suffered moderate injuries.  

      If you or someone you know has been in a driving under the influence accident, contact our California DUI Defense Attorneys today to find out more information. 

      Continue reading "Temecula Mother Causes DUI Accident, 9 Year Old Daughter Killed" »

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      January 27, 2011
        Motley Crue Singer Sentenced for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Motley Crue’s singer Vince Neil will be spending 15 days in jail for his June 2010 driving under the influence charge in Las Vegas.

      According to OnTheRedCarpet.com, the 49 year old rocker was arrested while driving under the influence in his black Lamborghini.   Neil pleaded guilty to the DUI charge and was ordered to begin his sentencing on February 15 th.   On top of 15 days of jail time, Neil will also be placed on house arrest, will have to pay a $585 fine, will have to attend a drunken driving abatement school and watch a victim impact video.

      If you have been arrested for a DUI, contact a qualified DUI Defense Attorney today to find out more information.

        

      Continue reading "Motley Crue Singer Sentenced for DUI" »

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      January 26, 2011
        Orange County Inmate Escapes After AA Meeting
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      An Orange County low-security inmate escaped Monday night while attending a jail ordered Spanish alcohol-abuse meeting.

      Francisco V. Santayo, a 22 year old landscaper from the Los Angeles area, went to an alcohol-abuse class with 13 other inmates but failed to return an hour later.    The Orange County Register states that a security guard noticed a man in an orange jumpsuit climbing into a red vehicle on Irvine Boulevard.  Once police officers arrived, the vehicle had fled the area.   Santayo is non-violate and a minor offense inmate that is not a danger to the community.

      If you have been arrested for driving under the influence, contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers today for more information. 

      Continue reading "Orange County Inmate Escapes After AA Meeting" »

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      January 25, 2011
        Turlock School Bus Driver Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A Turlock Unified School District bus driver has been arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol.  

      Lorna Gollihar was driving the yellow school bus when, according to KCRA.com, officers received a phone call that she was weaving and running vehicles off State Route 99 in Stockton. There were no children on the bus at the time of the stop.  Once pulled over, Gollihar failed the field sobriety test and was booked at the San Joaquin County Jail with a DUI and a BAC of .08% or more.

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

      Continue reading "Turlock School Bus Driver Arrested for DUI" »

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      January 24, 2011
        Repeat DUI Offender Arrested and Booked
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A 40-year-old repeat DUI offender from Vallejo has been arrested and booked in a Sonoma County Jail for a DUI, violation of probation and driving without a license.

      Hugo Alberto Reynoso was spotted weaving and driving 78 mph in a 55 mph zone on Lakeville Highway.  Officers stopped Reynoso and noticed signs that he was intoxicated.   According to the Petaluma 360, Reynoso’s records indicated that he had two previous DUI convictions and was currently on probation.  

      If you or someone you know has been arrested for DUI in California, contact our knowledgeable DUI Defense Attorneys today. 

      Continue reading "Repeat DUI Offender Arrested and Booked" »

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      January 21, 2011
        Weekend California DUI Checkpoints
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      With the weekend right around the corner, local police departments will be setting up California DUI Checkpoints throughout the state. As always, do not drink or drive; you could be putting yourself and others at serious risk of injury or even death.

      Police officers set up sobriety checkpoints to ensure that the public is safe from those driving while under the influence.  If you find yourself arrested during a checkpoint, contact a knowledgeable California DUI Defense Attorney who will provide you with information on how your case can be reduced.

      Officers will be conducting checkpoints to check for driver’s licenses and for motorists who are driving under the influence. Although there might be several other locations throughout California, here are a few locations that may be near you:

      Friday

      Hawthorne: 7pm-3am - Crenshaw Blvd & Rocket Rd.

      Riverside: 6pm- 12am - Undisclosed location

      Saturday

      Los Angeles: 8pm-2am - Vermont Ave, between Fifth & Sixth St.

      Long Beach: 6pm-2am - east side of the city

      Oxnard: 6pm-2am -multiple locations

      Pleasanton: 7pm-2am – Santa Rita Road & Pimlico Dr.

      Visalia: evening – undisclosed location

      Continue reading "Weekend California DUI Checkpoints " »

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      January 20, 2011
        Police Arrest 11 During Checkpoint in Orange County
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Huntington Beach Police made 11 DUI arrests during a California sobriety checkpoint Saturday evening.  

      Between the hours of 9:30pm and 3a.m., police officers conduct 42 sobriety tests, arrested 11 drunk drivers, handed out 10 citations for driving on a suspended license and had 6 cars impounded.  According to the OC Register, officers also handed out more than 500 Project Path pamphlets information motorists of the dangers of drinking and driving.

      Contact our California DUI Defense Lawyers if you were arrested during a DUI checkpoint and had to perform field sobriety tests. 

      Continue reading "Police Arrest 11 During Checkpoint in Orange County" »

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      January 20, 2011
        TV Show Winner Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      The latest winner of the popular TV show “Survivor” was arrested and booked on suspicion of being under the influence of a controlled substance.  

      Judson Birza was riding his skateboard in the streets of Santa Monica around noon.  When cops stopped Birza, TMZ states that they noticed him acting strangely. Birza was booked and jailed for a DUI related warrant as well as probation violation and is being held on a $37,000 bail.

      It’s important to know that you can be arrested for a DUI when you’re in a car, on a bike, on a boat or, in Birza’s case, a skateboard. If you or someone you know has been arrested for suspicion of being under the influence, contact our California DUI Attorneys today. 

      Continue reading "TV Show Winner Arrested for DUI" »

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      January 19, 2011
        DUI Checkpoint this Saturday in East Long Beach
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      East Long Beach will be seeing a DUI check point on Saturday, January 22nd. According to the Long Beach Post, the Long Beach Police Department will be conducting driver license and driving under the influence checkpoint from 6pm until 2am.

      Officers will be making sure that the public is safe by identifying offenders and getting them off the streets.  These DUI checkpoints are designed to reduce the number of persons killed or injured in alcohol involved collision.  

      During a DUI checkpoint, officers are trained to conduct field sobriety tests. If you were arrested during a DUI checkpoint, contact a California DUI Defense Attorney today to find out how your case can be reduced. 

      Continue reading "DUI Checkpoint this Saturday in East Long Beach" »

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      January 18, 2011
        27 Year Old Santa Cruz Man Charged as a Habitual Offender
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Donald Ray Wurster, a Santa Cruz habitual DUI offender, was arrested Friday evening for driving with a suspended license.   Wurster was spotted driving northbound on Highway 101 and had three passengers, an adult and two children under the age of 4, inside his vehicle. 

      According to the Petaluma360.com, Wurster was charged with driving with a suspended license as well as being a habitual traffic offender as he has had four prior convictions for driving without a license as well as six violations in the past year. A habitual traffic offender applies to anyone who is driving on a suspended license and has accumulated multiple citations and/or is involved in collisions in a one-year period.

      If you or someone you know is charged with driving on a suspended license due to a prior DUI case, contact our qualified California DUI Defense Attorneys today. 

      Continue reading "27 Year Old Santa Cruz Man Charged as a Habitual Offender" »

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      January 14, 2011
        Huntington Beach Looking To Post DUI Offender Information on Facebook
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      If you have been arrested for driving under the influence in Huntington Beach, you might see your picture and information on Facebook.

      Devin Dwyer, a Huntington Beach councilman, believes that the postings might deter habitual drunk drivers who have lost their licenses from driving.  Dwyer wants the Police Department to shame those arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence by posting information as well as their booking photos. According to the Huntington Beach Independent, voting will take place Monday, at 6pm in City Hall. 

      We believe that you deserve to have your name cleared before you end up on a social media sight; contact our California DUI Attorneys if you have been recently arrested.  

      Continue reading "Huntington Beach Looking To Post DUI Offender Information on Facebook" »

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      January 14, 2011
        Cyclists Cited for a Bicycle DUI in South LA
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Five bicyclists, ages 18 to 22, were arrested, cited for a California bicycle DUI and released. KCRA.com states that officers were called to the scene after a bicycle lost control and crashed into the pavement.

      At around 1:30am, approximately 15 bicyclists were riding on both sides of the road without helmets and barely visible to motorists. Officers could smell alcohol and conducted field sobriety tests on all the cyclists.

       The five bicyclists were arrested on suspicion of riding under the influence in South Los Angeles; one of the arrested was the victim of the crash, although he wasn’t seriously injured.  If you or someone you know has been arrested for any type of DUI, contact our knowledgeable California DUI Defense Attorneys today.

      Continue reading "Cyclists Cited for a Bicycle DUI in South LA" »

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      January 13, 2011
        Santa Barbara Man Drives Wrong-Way, Causes DUI Related Accident
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Leslie Dayka, 64, was arrested for driving under the influence and causing a DUI related accident.   LompcoRecord.com states that California Highway Patrol received numerous calls about a vehicle driving on the wrong side of the road.

      When officers responded to the scene, they stopped a 2001 Volkswagen sedan driven by Dayka after he side-swiped a 2007 Dodge sedan, causing minor damage. Neither Dayka nor the driver of the Dodge was injured. Officers arrested and booked Dayka to the Santa Barbara County Jail after they noticed that Dayka was showing signs of intoxication. 

      If you or someone you know has been arrested for driving under the influence in or around Santa Barbara, contact knowledgeable California DUI Lawyer today.

      Continue reading "Santa Barbara Man Drives Wrong-Way, Causes DUI Related Accident" »

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      January 11, 2011
        San Luis Obispo Man Causes DUI Related Crash
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Scott Metcalf, 27, was arrested on suspicion for driving under the influence and was booked into county jail, with DUI bail set at $5,000

      According to SanLuisObispo.com, Metcalf crashed his 2010 Toyota Tacoma into a utility pole in the 200 block of Higuera Street and ran from the scene.  Officers were able to locate Metcalf behind a nearby business.  No one was hurt and the block where the accident occurred was closed for 2 hours while the utility lines were being fixed.

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

      Continue reading "San Luis Obispo Man Causes DUI Related Crash" »

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      January 10, 2011
        19 Year Old Suspected of Felony DUI, Causes Fatal Accident
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A 19 year old Alex Michael Gary was traveling westbound on the 10 freeway when he lost control of his vehicle and crashed into stopped traffic. He was arrested for suspicion of vehicular manslaughter as well as a California felony DUI.  According to the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin, Gary was driving 80 mph near Via Verde in San Dimas when he failed to slow down for stopped traffic and struck a Honda Civic, killing Viet H. Le and Thuan Trieu and injuring driver Ly Trinh Nguyen.  The Honda then struck a Toyota Camry, injuring a 3 year old female passenger.

      If you have been arrested for driving under the influence, contact a leading DUI Defense Lawyer today. We will help negotiate your case for a more favorable outcome. 

      Continue reading "19 Year Old Suspected of Felony DUI, Causes Fatal Accident" »

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      January 07, 2011
        Victorville Resident Crashes into CHP, Suspected of DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Kenneth Marshall, 34, of Victorville was arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence after he caused an accident by crashing into a California Highway Patrol vehicle and was in violation of probation for a previous DUI conviction. According to The Sun, the CHP was on their way to an off-road motorcycle accident when he was hit by Marshall who was going through an intersection and did not stop for the CHP. 

      Thankfully, neither the officer nor Marshall was injured in the crash. If you or someone you know has been in an accident due to driving under the influence, you should contact a leadingCalifornia DUI Defense Attorney

      Continue reading "Victorville Resident Crashes into CHP, Suspected of DUI" »

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      January 06, 2011
        "My Name Is Earl" Actress Arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Actress Jaime Pressly, 33, was arrested late Wednesday night for driving under the influence in Santa Monica. The “My Name Is Earl” actress was pulled over around 11 pm, for what is alleged to be a traffic violation.

      News channels state that once pulled over, the two-time Emmy nominee performed field sobriety tests and was arrested and booked on the suspicion of a DUI.   TMZ states that she was taken to a jail in Santa Monica and held on a $15,000 bond.  Ms. Pressly’s BAC, or blood-alcohol level, has not been confirmed. 

      To get the best representation, contact our leading DUI Defense Lawyers for more information.

      Continue reading ""My Name Is Earl" Actress Arrested for DUI " »

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      January 05, 2011
        Camp Pendleton Marine Killed Due to Potential DUI Crash
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      A US Marine from Camp Pendleton has been arrested under the suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs and or alcohol.  Joel Thomas Toovey, age 19, was the driver of a pickup that lost control on I-805, at Interstate 8.  Mr. Toovey’s passenger, Lance Cpl. Andrew T. Tjhung, was killed.

       Mr.  Tjhung, a fellow Camp Pendleton Marine who was also 19, died from the result of the crash.  According to Sign on San Diego, Mr. Tjhung, from Pierce, Washington, enlisted into the Marines December 2009 and was a motor transport operator.  We offer our sincere condolences to the friends and family of Mr. Tjhung.

      Continue reading "Camp Pendleton Marine Killed Due to Potential DUI Crash" »

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      November 17, 2010
        Laguna Beach DUI suspect crashes car twice
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      42-year-old Christian Aparicio was arrested for driving under the influence in Laguna Beach on Saturday night.  He was pulled over by the Laguna Beach police Department after being suspected of drunk driving.  When he pulled into a nearby gas station and was asked to step out of his vehicle, he left the car in reverse.  The sedan backed straight into the nearby police car.  To make matters worse, when Aparicio tried to control the vehicle he pressed the gas driving straight into a pole directly infront of the patrol vehicle.  Luckily no one was injured in the ordeal.

      An Orange County DUI with accident can have heavy consequences from license suspensions to potential jail time.  In most cases, the comedy of errors listed above isn't the reality.  More often than not a person is pulled over for a Laguna Beach DUI after having a few drinks at the local bar and for something as minor as having their registration expired.  No matter what the circumstances of your Orange County drunk driving incident, you need to contact a leading Laguna Beach DUI lawyer.

      Continue reading "Laguna Beach DUI suspect crashes car twice" »

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      July 06, 2010
        New study shows weaving caused by cell phone use not drunk driving
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      One of the most common reasons for being pulled over on suspicion of driving under the influence is because of weaving.  The California Highway Patrol has reported that some 244,000 people were cited for distracted driving leading to around 16 deaths.  Many reports are starting to indicate that distracting driving may produce more grim statistics than California DUI cases.  The unfortunate reality is that people use their cell phone while driving and it can have serious consequences.

      If you have been pulled over for weaving because you were on the phone or texting and were subsequently charged with driving under the influence, call our offices today.  We offer a free initial consultation with a leading DUI defense attorney.  Call us toll free today or fill out our online case evaluation.

      Continue reading "New study shows weaving caused by cell phone use not drunk driving" »

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      May 19, 2010
        Santa Rosa woman pleads guilty to gross vehicular manslaughter
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Last September Kathy O'Daniel a mother of five was killed in a car accident allegedly caused by Judy Shafer.  O'Daniel's was driving her 15-year-old daughter home from volleyball practice when they were struck by Shafer's Jeep.  Shafer was found to be driving with a blood alcohol level of .19%.  Shafer will serve a 13 year state prison sentence for her involvement in the crash.

      If you are involved in a California DUI that causes serious injury or death then you are facing a felony conviction.  Felony DUI charges carry with them state prison sentences.  Without the assistance of a leading California drunk driving defense attorney you will be facing the full power of the state in your case.  This means that you will most likely serve the maximum sentence on all charges.  Call our team of dedicated California DUI defense lawyers today for a free consultation.

      Continue reading "Santa Rosa woman pleads guilty to gross vehicular manslaughter" »

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      May 17, 2010
        Woman arrested for driving drunk and topless
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Brandi Smith, 41, was arrested after driving drunk and topless.  According to police she stole a bottle of wine and then plowed through the landscaping at a Burger King.  Smith's blood alcohol level came back at a .144%.  She has been arrested for two prior California DUIs and was cited for driving on a suspended license.  If convicted this will be Smith's 3rd DUI in under three years.

      Driving under the influence in California can be a serious offense.  If this is your 2nd or subsequent offense the consequences can be grave.  You could be facing a multi-year license suspension and up to a year in jail.  If you are arrested for a felony DUI then you could be facing state prison time.  No matter what you are charged with the first call you should make is to a qualified California Drunk Driving Defense Attorney.  Call us toll free today for a free case evaluation.

      Continue reading "Woman arrested for driving drunk and topless" »

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      May 05, 2010
        Driver and passenger injured in alleged Merced County DUI accident
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      21 year-old Edgar G. Haro was arrested for suspicion of a Merced County DUI after he collided with a truck on Highway 165.  Haro's passenger suffered major injuries and was taken to the nearby Modesto's Doctors Medical Center early on Friday April 30.  The truck driver did not suffer any injuries.  California Highway Patrol stated that Haro turned left in front of the truck causing the collision at the August Avenue intersection. 

      Driving under the influence in California is extremely serious.  If you are involved in an accident and arrested for a California DUI you could face felony charges.  A felony DUI could result in state prison time.  Even if only the passenger was injured you can still face felony charges if they have great bodily injury.  If you have been arrested for a California DUI the first call you must make is to a knowledgeable drunk driving defense attorney.  Remember you have only ten calendar days to save your license.  Contact us today.

      Continue reading "Driver and passenger injured in alleged Merced County DUI accident" »

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      April 16, 2010
        Former Rock of Love contestant arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Megan Hauerman of reality TV fame including being a contestant on Beauty and the Geek, Rock of Love with Bret Michaels, I Love Money and Rock of Love: Charm School was arrested for driving under the influence at around 3:00 am this morning in Miami.  She was allegedly driving to the strip club where she works.  Police indicate that the former star of 'Megan wants a Millionaire' was weaving and then sped to 75 mph in a 55 mph zone.  She blew a .102 at the station. 

      Driving under the influence is a serious offense.  In California if you are arrested for drunk driving you will be charged with violation of vehicle code section 23152 (a) and (b).  The (a) count is driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.  The (b) count of the vehicle code section is driving with a BAC of over .08%.  If you are arrested for drunk driving, contact our California DUI Lawyers immediately for a free consultation.

      Continue reading "Former Rock of Love contestant arrested for DUI" »

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      April 09, 2010
        Packers tight end suspected of driving under the influence
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Packers tight end, Spencer Havner is suspected of driving under the influence in California.  The California Highway Patrol has announced that they are seeking DUI charges against him after the 27-year old crashed his motorcycle.  Havner is recovering from a broken scapula associated with the crash, but has denied the allegations.  Currently Havner has not been formally charged with a California DUI.

      Driving under the influence charges in California can be devastating.  If you were involved in a California DUI with accident you not only have to deal with the criminal court and the DMV, but you may also be facing serious injuries.  It is imperative that you speak with a top California DUI attorney immediately after being involved with a drunk driving incident.

      Continue reading "Packers tight end suspected of driving under the influence" »

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      April 02, 2010
        Dolphins’ running back charged with DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Ronnie brown was arrested Saturday March 20 at around 4:30 am for driving under the influence.  He was visiting his parents for their anniversary and later went to a club.  After leaving the club he was pulled over for failing to a turn signal.  He believes he was profiled for the type of car he was driving and because of his race. 

      Driving under the influence carries significant penalties from the Department of Motor Vehicles and from the criminal court system.  If you are arrested for a California DUI the first thing you need to do is contact a dedicated drunk driving defense attorney who can assist you with all aspects of your case.  Failure to contact an attorney could mean that you don't get the best possible outcome in your case.  Fill out our free online California DUI case evaluation now.

      Continue reading "Dolphins’ running back charged with DUI" »

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      March 05, 2010
        Senator Arrested After Leaving Gay Bar for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Senator Roy Ashburn, an outspoken anti-gay activist, was arrested for allegedly driving under the influence after leaving an openly gay bar.

      Senator Ashburn was arrested in Sacramento and released on a $1400.00 bond.  Ashburn has run his senatorial seat on a family values platform.  He is a married father of four and represents a district which includes parts of Kern, Tulare and San Bernardino counties.  He issued an apology for the incident. 


      Read more about this article

      Being arrested for drunk driving in California can be a life altering event.  It is imperative that you hire a qualified  California DUI defense attorney who knows the law and can help you with all aspects of your case.  Contacting a lawyer immediately after your arrest is crucial so that they can schedule a hearing through the DMV and handle your criminal court case.  Contact a California DUI Lawyer today by filling out our free online California DUI evaluation.

      Continue reading "Senator Arrested After Leaving Gay Bar for DUI" »

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      February 17, 2010
        Can you be charged with a DUI without even driving a car?
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Daryl Fleck admits to consuming a twelve pack of beer and then stumbling out of the house to sleep it off. With his keys in the center counsel and the driver’s side car door wide open a neighbor alerted police when he found Fleck passed out.  When police arrived they found Fleck sleeping, the hood of the car was cold and to top it off the car wouldn’t even start.  Fleck was charged with a  DUI and had a BAC of .18%.  He is facing probation of 5 years and 4 years in custody for sleeping in his legally parked car in front of his house. 

       

      If you are charged with a DUI you are in violation of 2 counts: Vehicle section code 23152 (a) and (b).  The first one is driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol and the 2 nd count (b) is driving under the influence of a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher.   

       

      If you or someone you know has been charged with a DUI it is important for an experienced California DUI Lawyer to review your case.    Please contact our office for a free consultation at 888-444-7210 to speak to a qualified Drunk Driving Lawyer. 

      Continue reading "Can you be charged with a DUI without even driving a car?" »

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      February 05, 2010
        Cincinnati Bengal Rey Maualuga enters plea to driving under the influence
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Rey Maualuga entered a plea this week to driving under the influence.  He played as a linebacker for USC prior to going pro with the Cincinnati Bengals.  In the plea agreement Maualuga received a 7-day suspended jail sentence.  He was placed on informal probation for two years and had his license suspended for 90 days.  Maualuga was arrested after he hit two parked cars and a parking meter. 

      Between pro-athletes and celebrities, the news is littered with stories of drunk driving – the fact of the matter is that drunk driving arrests occur every day and not only to celebrities and pro-athletes.  A charge for driving under the influence can be very serious.  It is important that if you or someone you love has been arrested for driving under the influence that you contact a lawyer.  An experienced California DUI defense attorney can assist you with all aspects of your case including contacting the   DMV and your criminal court proceedings.

      Continue reading "Cincinnati Bengal Rey Maualuga enters plea to driving under the influence" »

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      February 01, 2010
        Husband of New Jersey Housewife Teresa gets arrested for DUI
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Joe Giudice, husband to Teresa from Bravo’s New Jersey Housewifes was arrested after crashing into a telephone pole.  He was charged with driving under the influence after testing for his blood alcohol level indicated that he was over the legal limit.  Joe was unscathed in the incident but was taken to the hospital after the crash.

      Drunk driving incidents involving accidents can be very serious.  District attorneys across the United States are working hard to crack down on DUI statistics.  Even when it is a single-car collision with no injuries the penalties can be more severe and the likelihood of a reduction can be unrealistic.  If you have been involved in a DUI with an accident you need to consult an experienced drunk driving attorney. 

      Continue reading "Husband of New Jersey Housewife Teresa gets arrested for DUI" »

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      January 20, 2010
        UC Davis student dies in drunk driving accident
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      Richard Jung was killed on New Year’s Day when he was rear-ended by an alleged drunk driver causing his car to veer into oncoming traffic.  Three people were killed in the accident including Jung’s mother who was in the passenger seat and another driver who died at the hospital. The California Highway Patrol reported that Herculano Hernandez, is facing three counts of second-degree murder as well as nine other felony counts.

       

      Felony DUI charges are very serious and can result in a state prison sentence.  An experienced California DUI Attorney can assist you with all aspects of your case including the DMV hearing.  A case involving great bodily injury or fatalities requires immediate action.  Contact our offices immediately for a free California drunk driving case consultation.

      Continue reading "UC Davis student dies in drunk driving accident" »

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      January 07, 2010
        Suspected California DUI Crash Injures Several People
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin
      Last Friday in the Atwater area a man was driving and crossed over the double yellow lines, sideswiping another car. Emergency personnel was on the scene quickly, with seven of the people involved in the accident being taken to the hospital. Both vehicles were severly damaged, but all who were injured are doing well. The man who caused the accident was arrested and booked into jail on suspicion of a felony DUI after California Highway Patrol officials conducted an investigation.
       
      When DUI accidents injure other people, the results can be quite serious for the person being charged. With the help of a California DUI attorney, you can try to get the best possible outcome for your case. Our drunk driving defense lawyers will work to handle your case properly and prevent various defenses to lessen your charges.
      Continue reading "Suspected California DUI Crash Injures Several People" »

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      December 28, 2009
        California Highway Patrol reports increase in DUI arrests over Holiday Weekend
      Posted By Thomas V. Wallin

      The holiday weekend brought an increase in California DUI arrests according to the CHP.  Across the state from 6:01 pm Christmas Eve to 6 am Sunday there were 16 fatal traffic accidents.  In Los Angeles County alone, the arrests from driving under the influence nearly doubled.  The CHP and other agencies are reported to be gearing up for this weekend, one of the most notorious drinking holidays of the weekend.

      Holiday parties provide a great source of entertainment, however they also come during a time when law enforcement agencies have beefed up patrolling for drunk driving.  Citizens are encouraged to report any signs of impaired driving.  Being arrested for a California DUI can be terrifying.  The best thing that you can do is hire a leading California drunk driving defense attorney to assist you with all aspects of your case.

      Continue reading "California Highway Patrol reports increase in DUI arrests over Holiday Weekend" »

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