Archive for July, 2011

Realizing the Importance of DUI Charges

Many have the misconception that an accusation of drunk driving is not of much consequence. However, the reality is a bit different. The increasing number of accidents because of drunk drivers has made US state DUI (Driving Under Influence) laws stricter. If you ever face any such charge, you need to contact an attorney immediately.

To realize the importance of legal aid, you need to have a clear idea about the DUI laws of your state, Nevada. Only information can give you the necessary insight into the matter. Here is a quick glance at the details.

When do you commit an offense? Any individual operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is an offender. You can face charges in two particular circumstances:

Impaired driving because of the influence of alcohol and/or drugs; or
Blood alcohol concentration of .08 or more

Note: According to the ‘per se’ rule, even if your driving is not impaired you can face charges when your blood alcohol concentration is more than the permissible limit.

What happens after you face a traffic stop? The officer who stops you may ask for your personal information. He may ask you to submit to field sobriety tests and chemical tests as well. If he feels that you were drunk while driving, he can arrest you.

What happens if you refuse to submit to the chemical tests? Nevada laws do not give you this provision. As per the ‘implied consent’ rule, every Las Vegas driver voluntarily consents to submit to such tests when they get their driving privileges.

What cases does an arrest trigger? You arrest initiates two separate cases — one at a court of law and another at the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles.

How does the prosecution prove your offense? There are three specific ways to do this –

1.    By proving your impairment as a driver because of the alcohol/drug influence
2.    By proving your blood alcohol concentration to be above .08
3.    By proving the presence of ‘prohibited substances’ in your blood

What are the possible consequences post your conviction? Penalties for DUI Las Vegas can be quite serious. Depending on the frequency of the offense and the specific circumstances, your penalties may include jail term, fines, revocation of driving privileges, DUI School admission, ignition interlock device, and so on.

You need an attorney specializing in the state DUI laws to plan your defense. Otherwise, the penalties could seriously hamper your personal and professional life.

800 Las Vegas Lawyer directory is primarily created to meet the demand of a trustworthy online resource of Las Vegas based lawyers. Enlist your law firm if it is based in Las Vegas.

Originally published here.


Steve Marcos