The Child Endangerment Enhancements

Parents and child caretakers beware: if you are caught driving under the influence and you have a child under the age of 14 in the car with you, the prosecution may charge you with DUI as well as a charge of California Vehicle Code section 23572.

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Presumptions of Intoxication

The California Vehicle Code provides for certain presumptions regarding blood alcohol content and intoxication during a DUI case. These presumptions determine who carries the burden of proof in determining whether someone is under the influence or has driven with a 0.08% BAC at the time of driving.

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Wet Reckless vs. DUI charges

Many criminal defense attorneys have the opportunity to plead their clients to a “wet reckless” charge instead of a DUI.

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Sobriety Checkpoint Exit Routes

A few weeks ago, in a blog I posted on the constitutionality of sobriety checkpoints, I mentioned that, in California, in order for a random sobriety checkpoint to be valid, checkpoints must be publically advertised, reasonably located, and must allow approaching drivers to navigate away from the checkpoint.

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Marijuana Breathalyzer

Law enforcement agencies can easily detect whether someone has a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or above with the use of a breathalyzer machine.

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Dram Shop Laws in California

In my last post, I mentioned that establishments that serve alcohol to a noticeably intoxicated person may be subject to misdemeanor charges. I have received several questions regarding the exact liabilities of a vendor when they serve alcohol to patrons who later cause accidents, injuries, or even deaths as a result of drunk driving.

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Cinco de Mayo DUI Crackdown

Saturday is Cinco de Mayo and law enforcement agencies will, undoubtedly, be out in full force.

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Summertime BUIs

Spring is wrapping up and summer is right around the corner. ‘Tis the season to grab some beers and hit the river! Or is it?

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The Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus Test

During a DUI investigation, the investigating officer may initiate several field sobriety tests (FST). One test that may be administered is the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus Test (HGN).

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California Assemblyman Drives Drunk

Assemblyman Roger Hernandez, 36, of the 57th District based in West Covina, was arrested in Concord, California on March 27, 2012 on suspicion of driving under the influence. Continue reading

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