August 10, 2010

Driving Under the Influence of Drugs – Expert Testimony along with Defendant’s Actions Sufficient Evidence to Convict – California Vehicle Code Section 23152

The California Court of Appeal recently ruled that evidence supported the conviction of driving under the influence of methamphetamine where the drug was described as one that could impair driving ability and defendant was agitated, paranoid and impaired when stopped.

In People v. Benner, 2010 D.A.R. 8942, the defendant was pulled over by police officers for having expired registration tags. The defendant threw a bag out of the window before pulling over. The police found the bag and discovered about three ounces of methamphetamine. A drug recognition expert, Allen Rieckhoff, arrived on the scene. He noticed signs of methamphetamine use, which were subsequently confirmed from a blood test. Rieckhoff took the defendant to the police station where sobriety tests were administered. The defendant failed a number of the tests and was charged with driving under the influence of methamphetamine.

Under Vehicle Code section 23152, subdivision (a), it is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug to drive a vehicle. For purposes of this section, the term drug means any substance, other than alcohol, “which could so affect the nervous system, brain, or muscles of a person as to impair, to an appreciable degree, his ability to drive a vehicle in the manner that an ordinarily prudent and cautious man, in full possession of his faculties, using reasonable care, would drive a similar vehicle under like conditions.” (Veh. Code, § 312; see also People v. Canty (2004) 32 Cal.4th 1266, 1278.)

Appellant asserted there was no evidence methamphetamine could so affect a person. However, drug recognition expert Rieckhoff testified methamphetamine tends to make people jittery, anxious and emotionally erratic. He said users are prone to mood swings and are generally unable to perform tasks they are given. While decreased agility and concentration does not result in all cases, the drug tends to make it harder for people to perform “divided attention tasks,” i.e., those tasks that require a person to do more than one thing at a time. Rieckhoff put driving in that category, explaining that drivers must not only be able to operate a motor vehicle, but also react to “whatever comes [their] way, be it a red light [or] be it a kid [who] steps off the sidewalk into [their] path.”

The court found that there was sufficient evidence to convict the defendant on driving under the influence of drugs based on the defendant’s actions and the expert testimony.

If you or a loved one is facing a charge for driving under the influence of methamphetamine, it is important that you speak with an experienced DUI attorney. At Wallin & Klarich, our Southern California DUI attorneys have over 30 years of experience. Our attorneys are highly knowledgeable on the most up-to-date DUI laws. We will aggressively fight to get you the best possible result in your case. Call us today at (888) 280-6839 or contact us through our website at www.wklaw.com. We will be there when you call.

August 2, 2010

CALIFORNIA LAUNCHES NEW PILOT PROGRAM INCREASING USE OF IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICES IN SELECT COUNTIES – CALIFORNIA VEHICLE CODE SECTION 23700

Starting July 1, 2010, a new law requires anyone convicted of DUI in Los Angeles County and three other counties, even first-time offenders, to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in his or her vehicle. (California Vehicle Code section 23700(a)(7).)

IIDs require the driver to blow into a device before the vehicle’s ignition will start. If the IID determines that the driver’s blood alcohol content is above a certain threshold, the vehicle will not start. The purpose of the IID is to prevent previous DUI offenders whose blood alcohol content is above the threshold from driving.

Prior to the new law (and what is still the existing law in the non-pilot program counties), a California court had the discretion to require an IID for a first-time DUI offenders if his or her blood alcohol content was over .15%. (California Vehicle Code section 23575(a)(1).) With the new law, any first-time DUI offender in the affected counties will be required to install an IID unless the offender no longer owns or has access to a vehicle. (California Vehicle Code section 23700(a)(7), (8).)

A first offender must have the IID installed for five months. (California Vehicle Code section 23700(a)(7)(A)(i).) If the first offense involved an injury, the IID must be installed for a year. (California Vehicle Code section 23700(a)(7)(B)(i).) Subsequent DUI convictions and if the DUI caused injury will increase the mandated time the IID must be installed. (See California Vehicle Code section 23700(a)(7)(A), (B).) If the offender’s license was suspended or revoked, the mandatory time the IID must be installed starts when the offender regains his or her right to drive. (California Vehicle Code section 23700(a)(3).)

The type and cost of an IID varies by county, but the offender is usually responsible for installing and maintaining the device. (California Vehicle Code section 23700(a)(10).) In addition, the offender must pay the monthly lease for the device. Thus, the cost of an IID can be substantial.

Note that this law applies to convictions after July 1, 2010, even if the incident leading to the conviction happened before July 1. (California Vehicle Code section 23700(a)(7)(a).) The IID requirement does not apply to motorcycles: a person who must install an IID cannot ride a motorcycle during the IID installation period. (California Vehicle Code section 23700(e).)

The pilot program is expected to last until January 1, 2015, and the Department of Motor will report its findings on the effectiveness of the program. (California Vehicle Code section 23701.) If the Legislature approves the findings, the new law may be applied throughout California.

If you or someone you know has been convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you will need an experienced Los Angeles County DUI attorney who can aggressively defend you. At Wallin & Klarich, our DUI lawyers know the particular laws of each Southern California county we serve, and we have helped people accused of DUI for over 30 years. Call us today at (888) 764-2615 or visit us at our website at www.wklawdui.com. We will be there when you call.

June 18, 2010

Soprano’s Star Arrested on DUI Charges – California Vehicle Code Section 23152, 23536

It was recently reported by TMZ that Soprano’s star, Joseph Gannascoli was arrested early Friday morning and charged with drunk driving. Gannascoli was arrested after officers claimed they observed him making a wide right turn and then drifting between lanes. After the officers stopped Gannascoli, they noticed that he had bloodshot eyes, smelled of alcohol, and slurred his speech. The actor submitted to a field sobriety test and blew a .111. Gannascoli posted $500 bond and was released.

California Vehicle Code Section 23152a prohibits driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or both regardless of your blood alcohol level. However, if your blood alcohol level is 0.08 percent or more it is automatically illegal. If you are driving a commercial vehicle, your blood alcohol level cannot exceed 0.04 percent. It is important to note that even if your blood alcohol level is under 0.08 percent, you may still be charged with a DUI if your mental or physical abilities are so impaired by drugs or alcohol that you are no longer able to drive a vehicle with the same caution as a sober person using ordinary care under similar circumstances. The numbers are merely a guideline.

In California, if you have been arrested for a DUI you will have to go to court, and you will also likely face a DMV hearing. You have ten days from your arrest to request a DMV hearing, or your driver’s license will automatically be suspended for four months if it is your first offense. If you are convicted for a DUI your driving privileges will be suspended for six months.

On a first offense, if you are convicted you could be imprisoned in the county jail for 96 hours up to six months, and you will have to pay a fine of $390 up to $1,000. It is extremely important to note that the more convictions you acquire, the higher your penalty will be. If you have been convicted of four or more DUI offense, you could be charged with a felony meaning that you could serve time in a state prison and face much higher fines.

Sentencing practices for DUI charges vary widely depending upon the specific court your case is pending in, as well as the number of prior DUI offenses you have. Some courts demand jail time on a first DUI offense. In other courts you can avoid mandatory jail time and do community work service and complete Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. The list goes on and on with potential punishments.

It is very important when you first get arrested for a DUI that you immediately contact our law firm. We can meet with you and contact the DMV on your behalf to demand a DMV hearing be set. Once we do that this will preserve your driving privilege, meaning that you will be able to continue to legally drive pending the outcome of the DMV hearing. Our defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich have over 30 years of experience taking on cases just like yours. We will look at the particular facts of your case to determine the best defense strategy that is available to you. Call us today at 888-749-0034 or visit us online at www.wklaw.com. We will be here when you call.

June 18, 2010

Lindsay Lohan Allegedly Cleared from Probation Violation in Nonviolent Drug Possession Offense– California Penal Code Section 1210.1

TMZ recently reported that Lindsay Lohan may be cleared of her potential probation violation. Following the MTV Movie Awards, Ms. Lohan’s SCRAM alcohol monitoring bracelet detected alcohol in her system, a clear violation of her probation. However, it is reported that the following morning, Ms. Lohan went to the L.A. County Probation Department where her urine tested negative for alcohol. Allegedly, sources connected with the Probation Department have stated that Ms. Lohan is in full compliance with her bail conditions.

It is California public policy to decrease the likelihood of repeat drug offenses by providing rehabilitation services to those convicted of nonviolent drug possession offenses. Under the California Penal Code Section 1210.1(a), any person convicted of nonviolent drug possession will receive probation instead of incarceration. As a condition of probation, the defendant must participate in and complete an appropriate drug treatment program. In addition, the court can require participation in vocational training, family counseling, literacy training and/or community service. It is important to note that a court may not impose incarceration as an additional condition of probation.

If you have been charged with a nonviolent drug possession offense, it is important that you retain an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. If you successfully complete your drug treatment program, all charges will be dropped. However, if at any point during the course of your drug treatment you have been found to be un-amenable to the drug treatment programs, for example by consistently violating your probation, the probation department can revoke probation and impose incarceration as the appropriate alternative punishment.

If you or a loved one has been charged with a nonviolent drug possession offense, you should seek the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney, as the consequences of probation violation in nonviolent drug possession cases can become serious. Our criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich have over 30 years of experience taking on cases just like yours. We will look at the particular facts of your case to determine the best defense strategy that will result in the most advantageous outcome. Call us today at 888-749-0034 or visit us online at www.wklaw.com. We will be here when you call.

June 11, 2010

How Circumstantial Evidence Can Be Used In DUI (Driving Under The Influence) Cases – California Vehicle Code Section 23152

If you were arrested for drinking and driving even though no police officer actually saw you driving a vehicle, the Orange County District Attorney and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may still proceed with your DUI case. Because of this, it is important to have an experienced Orange County DUI lawyer if you are arrested for driving while intoxicated.

The prosecutor and the DMV may introduce circumstantial evidence (as opposed to direct observation) to prove you were driving. Examples of circumstantial evidence of you driving include: being found in the driver’s seat; the vehicle’s keys found in your pocket; the vehicle is registered to you; the vehicle hood was warm to the touch; and the driver’s seat was adjusted for your height. As you can see, the critical element of “driving” in any Driving Under the Influence case can be met even when no law enforcement officer or private citizen witness observed you driving. DUI charges, both in court and at the DMV, are vulnerable to diligent legal research and investigation.

The aggressive Orange County criminal defense lawyers at Wallin & Klarich have been defending the rights of those facing DUI charges for over 30 years. We know what it takes to ensure that you keep your driver’s license and may be able to get your DUI charges reduced or even dismissed. Contact Wallin & Klarich today to learn more about how we can help. Call 888-280-6839 or visit www.wklaw.com and www.wklawdui.com for more information. We will be there when you call.

June 9, 2010

What Are The Costs of A DUI Conviction?

Drunk Driving in California has been a danger to drivers and pedestrians for a number of years. By choosing to drive drunk you can cause catastrophic or fatal injury to yourself and others. If you are convicted of a DUI there will be a number of costs associated with your decision. Recovering from a drunk driving conviction can be a tedious and drawn out process. Some of these costs associated with a DUI conviction include:

  • Bail
  • Towing Fees
  • Court Costs
  • Attorney Fees
  • Ignition Interlock Costs
  • Higher Insurance Premiums
  • Alcohol Education Enrollment Fees
  • Driver License Reinstatement Fees

These are only some of the many costs that can be associated with a DWI conviction. If there was a serious or fatal injury involved there could be more serious consequences.

Drunk Driving Statistics

Drunk driving continues to kill a number of people every year. According to AlcoholAlert.com's 2008 report, there was 1198 fatal personal injuries, in California, that were alcohol related. Out of all traffic fatalities, 30% involved a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher, which accounted for 1029 deaths.

These alarming numbers have led a number of people to protest drunk driving with articles such as "The DUI Crash: Is it Murder on the Highway?."

California DUI Car Accident Laws

Under California law it is a serious crime to operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol. California Vehicle Code section 23152 (a) states: "It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle." This same section also states that it is illegal for any person to operate a vehicle with blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 percent or more.

Finding An Experienced California Personal Injury Lawyer

A DUI Victims' Rights should not be overlooked. If you have been injured there are a number of resources to aid you. Once such resource is the Personal Rights Handbook for the Victims of Drunk Driving. This handy guidebook was developed to help DUI victims understand the legalities of their case.

Personal injury victims who have suffered from the negligence of a drunk driver are well advised to seek the council of a DUI Accident Victim Lawyer. Recovering Personal Damages From a DUI Accident can be important to your future and well being. A skilled California personal injury lawyer can help you to receive fair compensation for your injuries.

May 25, 2010

Alcohol Monitoring and Drug Testing For Lindsay Lohan After DUI Hearing

Actress Lindsay Lohan will be subject to strict drug testing and will have to wear an alcohol testing device following an appearance in court today to address a DUI hearing the actress failed to appear at last week. Lohan cannot drink alcohol and all of her testing must be done randomly and locally, which may force her to delay shooting a new film in Texas. The judge imposed her orders following the actress’ missed court appearance last week, which led to a warrant being issued for her arrest. The warrant was recalled after Lohan’s attorney posted bail and the actress flew from Paris, France, to Los Angeles over the weekend.

A judge issued a warrant for the arrest of Lohan last week after she failed to show up at a mandatory court hearing regarding her probation. The actress was in Paris for the Cannes Film Festival. Her attorney told the judge at the hearing that Lohan had her passport stolen and still tried to board a flight back to Los Angeles, albeit unsuccessfully. Lohan then retained a temporary passport and flew back to Los Angeles over the weekend.

Lohan’s hearing stemmed from a 2007 no contest plea to two counts each of driving under the influence and being under the influence of cocaine, along with a reckless driving charge. Under her plea deal, she was placed on 36 months probation, required to serve a 24-hour jail sentence, complete an 18-month alcohol education program, and perform 10 days of community service. In October 2009, her probation was extended for a year after she missed her mandatory alcohol education classes while she filmed a movie in Texas. She was also told that she must notify the court and get permission before leaving the jurisdiction again.

With a court date coming up it would be a wise decision to remain close to the courthouse. When you fail to appear in court when ordered to do so by the judge, the judge will issue a bench warrant for your arrest.

If you or a loved one is facing drunk driving charges, you need to speak with an experienced DUI attorney. At Wallin & Klarich, our attorneys have over 30 years of experience in handling all types of DUI cases. Our attorneys are highly knowledgeable and will keep you fully informed of your case. We will fight to get you the best possible result in your case. Call us today at (888) 280-6839. We will be there when you call.

April 27, 2010

I Was Arrested for Public Intoxication – What Should I Do Next? – California Penal Code 647(f)

Under California Penal Code 647(f), public intoxication is listed as a crime of disorderly conduct and is a misdemeanor. Public intoxication is when a person is found in any public place under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and is in a condition where he or she is unable to exercise care for his or her own safety or the safety of others. Public intoxication also occurs if a person, while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, interferes with or obstructs or prevents the free use of any street, sidewalk, or other public way.

To convict a defendant, the prosecution must prove that 1) the defendant was willfully under the influence of alcohol or drugs, 2) the defendant was in a public place, and 3) the defendant was either unable to exercise care for his/her own safety, or the safety of others or the defendant interfered with, obstructed, or prevented the free use of a street, sidewalk, or other public way.

It is important to have a criminal defense attorney if you are facing public intoxication charges. An experienced attorney can inform you of all the defenses that are available in your case. Some of the most common public intoxication defenses are that the defendant was not under the influence or it was not in a public place.

Continue reading "I Was Arrested for Public Intoxication – What Should I Do Next? – California Penal Code 647(f)" »

April 19, 2010

Huntington Beach Defendant Vicente Garcia Ramirez Sentenced For DUI Death – California Penal Code Section 193

Huntington Beach Defendant Vicente Garcia Ramirez Sentenced For DUI Death – California Penal Code Section 193

It was recently reported that a Huntington Beach man was sentenced to 16 months in state prison following a drunk driving accident. In the early morning hours of January 9th, 23-year-old Vicente Garcia Ramirez was driving in Garden Grove when he lost control of his Nissan Altima on Magnolia Street and crashed into a tree. His passenger, Joyce Lopez, 22, died hours later. Ramirez, who had a blood-alcohol level of .08 percent, had been drinking at a party before he got behind the wheel and was driving at an “unsafe speed” before he lost control of the car.

Appearing with his attorney, defendant Ramirez pleaded guilty to one felony count of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated without gross negligence and one misdemeanor count of driving a motor vehicle without a valid license. He was sentenced to one year and four months in prison. Ramirez faced up to six years in state prison for the felony vehicular manslaughter charge.

Continue reading "Huntington Beach Defendant Vicente Garcia Ramirez Sentenced For DUI Death – California Penal Code Section 193" »

April 16, 2010

Know The Facts Behind Your California DUI Accident

Drunk driving in California has been a problem for a number of years. When a driver is driving under the influence of alcohol, there can be serious consequences. Drunk driving can cause fatal or catastrophic injury to the driver as well as other drivers and pedestrians sharing the road.
The damages caused to victims of a DUI collision can be permanent, painful, and expensive. If you have been injured from a DUI collision you need to recover money from the person who caused your accident. There are a number of damages an injured accident victim can recover. An injured accident victim can recover damages such as loss wages, medical treatment, and pain and suffering among others..

Drunk Driving Statistics

Accident statistics have show that on average there is one fatal personal injury caused by a drunk driver every 45 minutes, according to MADD. That comes out to about 30 preventable deaths a day. In addition, more than 1.46 million drivers were arrested in 2006 for driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics. That averages out to an arrest rate of about one for every 139 licensed drivers in the United States.

California DUI Laws

California law prohibits any driver with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 or higher to operate a vehicle. According to California Vehicle Code section 23152 (a): "It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle."

Drink Safely

People that do decide to drink need to keep in mind their own safety as well as the safety of others. If you decide to drink it is advised to have a designated driver. Never condone any type of excessive alcohol consumption. Limit your number of drinks to a minimum. Look after your friends as well. If they have been drinking never let them drive.

Continue reading "Know The Facts Behind Your California DUI Accident" »

April 4, 2010

Crash Involving Suspected DUI CalTrans Truck Driver - California Vehicle Code 23152

Christopher Trachta, a truck driver for Caltrans, was arrested and charged with suspicion of drunk driving after an accident on Highway 78. As reported by San Diego 10 News, Trachta had been driving a CalTrans flatbed truck carrying a tractor when the tractor rolled off of the truck bed and smashed into a nearby apartment owned by a local family. The apartment building and its surrounding asphalt were seriously damaged as a result. Trachta continued to drive the truck onward where he struck another vehicle before coming to a stop a few feet west of the Winola Farms Marketplace. There were no reported injures from the incident. CalTrans stated that they have placed Trachta on administrative leave until the police investigation has been completed.

Under the California Vehicle Code 23152, it is illegal to drive a vehicle while under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or any combination thereof. It is also illegal under this section to drive a vehicle with a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or more. In most DUI cases, the judge and prosecuting attorney are much more likely to increase punishment when there is an accident involved. The punishment is also likely to be severe when there is significant damage done or when a work-related vehicle is involved.

If you or a loved one have been arrested for DUI, you should speak with a DUI lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced DUI San Diego defense lawyer can provide you with the best advice on how to proceed with your case and present the best defense. At Wallin & Klarich, we have represented people accused of DUI for over 30 years. Call us at 888-280-6839 or visit us at www.wklaw.com. We will be there when you call.

March 15, 2010

NFL WR Pleads Guilty to DUI - California Vehicle Code 23152

According to ESPN, San Diego Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson has plead guilty to a 2009 DUI charge. This is Jackson’s 2nd conviction for a DUI. Jackson’s first DUI was in 2006. Jackson will face 4 days in jail and 5 years of probation. Jackson will also have to pay a fine of $2,408 and perform 10 days of public work service.

A DUI is a serious charge. It is important that you talk to an attorney if you have been cited for a DUI. Under California Vehicle Code 23152, driving while having a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or more will result in a DUI conviction. Having a 2nd DUI within 10 years of the first conviction will increase the penalty. See California Vehicle Code Section 23540. You can face jail time, fines, and a suspension of your driving privileges. There are many defenses that can be used. Talking to an attorney can make a difference in the result of your case.

Continue reading "NFL WR Pleads Guilty to DUI - California Vehicle Code 23152" »

February 11, 2010

Van Nuys DMV Hearings and DUI Defense Lawyers

Van Nuys is located at the center of the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles County. With a population well over 136,443 people, Van Nuys attracts more and more residents every year. Van Nuys Boulevard, the main street in the city, is widely known for its strip of car dealerships. Van Nuys is also notorious for being the site of filming for Beverly Hills 90210. In being so close to Los Angeles, law enforcement in Van Nuys keeps a look-out for drivers they suspect of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol. When a person is arrested for DUI in Van Nuys, he or she only has 10 days to schedule a hearing with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Most drivers in Van Nuys are not aware that their driver’s license will be confiscated if they are arrested for drunk driving. Even though being arrested for DUI can be an upsetting and confusing experience, an individual can be proactive and seek legal advice and representation from a skilled Van Nuys DMV hearings lawyer. A skilled attorney can make sure that you retain your driving privileges by guiding you through the legalities of a DMV hearing and DUI case. Failure to schedule a DMV hearing within 10 days of your arrest will result in an automatic suspension of your driver’s license for thirty days or more from the date of your arrest and serves as a surrender of a DMV hearing.

The aggressive Southern California criminal defense lawyers at Wallin & Klarich have been defending the rights of those facing criminal charges such as DUI for over 30 years. We know what it takes to ensure that you keep your driver’s license and may be able to get your DUI charges reduced or even dismissed. Contact Wallin & Klarich today to learn more about how we can help. Call 888-280-6839 or visit www.wklaw.com for more information.

February 9, 2010

Torrance DMV Hearings and DUI Defense Lawyers

The city of Torrance is situated within the bustling region of Los Angeles County and has approximately 140,820 residents. Based on the 2009 California Population Estimate of 149,111, Torrance is expected to become the eighth largest city in LA County as well as the 35th largest in the state of California. Torrance attracts a number of inhabitants and visitors due to its closeness to beaches, nice weather, safe communities, and prominent businesses. However, with such a large number of people comes an increase in traffic and subsequent watch of law enforcement for drivers they suspect to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

If a person is arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Torrance, the officer who makes their arrest will take away their driver’s license. It is at this point that an arrested individual only has 10 days to schedule a hearing with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). If a person fails to schedule their DMV hearing within 10 days of their arrest, their driver’s license will be automatically suspended for thirty days or more and they will surrender their DMV hearing. There are numerous other legal matters and consequences involved in a DMV hearing and throughout a DUI case that may have long-lasting effects on your life unless you get in touch with a skilled Torrance DMV hearings attorney.

At Wallin & Klarich, our knowledgeable Southern California criminal defense lawyers will make sure that you keep your driving privileges. We have been defending the rights of those facing criminal charges like DUI for over 30 years and know what it takes to get your charges reduced or dismissed completely. Call us today at 888-280-6839 or visit www.wklaw.com for more information. We have the legal resources and experience to help you obtain a successful outcome at your DMV hearing and in your DUI case.

February 4, 2010

Palmdale DMV Hearing and DUI Defense Attorneys

Palmdale is a fast-growing city situated in Los Angeles County’s northeast region. With an approximate population of 151,346, Palmdale attracts new inhabitants throughout the year partially due to its proximity to the beautiful San Gabriel Mountain range. Palmdale is California’s largest desert city and is mainly occupied by family communities. Despite being a safe and prosperous city, arrests for driving under the influence (DUI) do take place in Palmdale from time to time in which a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) hearing will probably occur as a result.

Being arrested for DUI in Palmdale can be an overwhelming experience, especially since there are several issues to consider, such as the standing of your driving privileges. Many motorists in Palmdale are not aware that their driver’s license will be taken away by the police officer who makes their arrest. After your arrest, you only have ten days to schedule a DMV hearing to defend your name and fight to retain your driver’s license. Failure to schedule a hearing with the DMV will result in an automatic driving suspension of thirty days or more and a surrender of a DMV hearing.

In order to make sure that your rights are aggressively and effectively defended, you should get in touch with an experienced Palmdale DMV hearings lawyer. At Wallin & Klarich, our skilled Southern California criminal defense attorneys have been defending those facing criminal offenses for more than 30 years. We have the legal knowledge and resources to assist you in obtaining a successful outcome at your DMV hearing and in your DUI case. Call Wallin & Klarich today at 1-888-280-6839 or visit our website at www.wklaw.com for more information.

February 2, 2010

Lancaster DMV Hearings and DUI Defense Lawyers

As the ninth fastest expanding city in the United States, Lancaster is situated in Southern California’s Antelope Valley. Lancaster has an approximate population of 145,243 and is the eighth biggest city within Los Angeles County. In bringing in several national and local companies from various types of industries and businesses, many people are drawn to Lancaster to pursue the American Dream. However, as a consequence of being such a busy and densely populated city, arrests for driving under the influence (DUI) have been known to take place in Lancaster in which a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) hearing will likely follow.

Many motorists in Lancaster do not realize that if they are arrested for DUI, their driver’s license will be taken away from them. At this point, a person charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs only has 10 days to schedule an administrative hearing with the DMV. License suspension in Southern California is a serious matter and a DUI conviction can impose many harsh consequences. However, with an experienced Lancaster DMV hearings lawyer on your side, you may be able to retain your driving privileges and reach a successful outcome in your DUI case.

If you have been arrested for DUI in Lancaster, do not waste any time in contacting a skilled criminal defense attorney who has experience handing DUI cases and DMV hearings. At Wallin & Klarich, our aggressive lawyers will fight your license suspension by challenging the technical basis for your arrest and the charges being held against you. Our criminal defense law firm has been defending the rights of individuals facing criminal charges such as DUI for more than 30 years. Call Wallin & Klarich today at 888-280-6839 or visit www.wklaw.com for more information.

January 28, 2010

Pasadena DMV Hearings and DUI Defense Attorneys

Pasadena is a popular city situated in Los Angeles County. Known mostly for hosting the nationally watched Tournament of Roses parade and the annual Rose Bowl Football game, Pasadena is also a cultural attraction in the San Gabriel Valley. Pasadena is the sixth largest city in LA County with an estimated population of 146,518 residents. It is no wonder then that four major freeways pass through Pasadena, thus making law enforcement more alert for signs of drivers operating vehicles while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

After being arrested for DUI in Pasadena, a DMV hearing will most likely take place. However a hearing does not just happen. A person must schedule a DMV hearing ten days after their arrest. It is fairly common for motorists to not know that their driver’s license will be taken away by the police officer who conducts their arrest. If a person fails to schedule their DMV hearing within the allotted time, their driving privileges will be automatically suspended for thirty days, or more, and they surrender their DMV hearing.

Although being arrested for DUI can be an overwhelming experience, a person should be as proactive as possible and seek out a skilled Pasadena DMV hearings attorney who will help them through their challenging time. An experienced lawyer will also make sure that you keep your driving privileges after being charged with DUI. At Wallin & Klarich, our aggressive Southern California criminal defense attorneys have been defending the rights of those charged with DUI and several other offenses for more than 30 years. We have the legal knowledge and resources that you need to obtain a positive outcome at your DMV hearing and in your DUI case. Contact Wallin & Klarich today by calling 888-280-6839 or visit www.wklaw.com for more information.

January 26, 2010

Hollywood DMV Hearings and DUI Defense Attorneys

As probably the most famous districts in California, Hollywood is a historical hub of movie studios and movie stars. Some of the most well-known landmarks in Hollywood range from the Hollywood Bowl to Capitol Records to Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. With over 210,777 people residing in Hollywood and with a population density of about 8,443 individuals per square mile, Hollywood travelers and inhabitants encounter their share of arrests for driving under the influence (DUI) in which a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) hearing will most likely take place. In 2007, the California DMV reported 203,866 DUI arrests, 197,602 of which were misdemeanor offenses.

Being arrested for DUI in Hollywood may feel like something right out of a movie, but the reality is that there are several harsh penalties and punishments that a person may face if he or she is convicted. Most motorists are not aware of the fact that the officer who arrests them will also take away their driver’s license. In addition, a person only has 10 days from the date of their arrest to schedule a DMV hearing to contest their driving privilege suspension. Failure to schedule a hearing will result in an automatic surrender of a hearing and a license suspension for thirty days or more.

If you face charges for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Hollywood, it is important for you to contact a skilled Hollywood DMV hearings attorney. At Wallin & Klarich, our experienced Southern California criminal defense lawyers have been aggressively defending the rights of those accused of crimes such as DUI for more than 30 years. We have the legal knowledge and resources that you need to obtain a successful outcome at your DMV hearing and in your DUI case. Call Wallin & Klarich today at 1-888-280-6839 or visit www.wklaw.com for more information.

January 21, 2010

Valencia DMV Hearings and DUI Defense Lawyer

Valencia is a planned community in California that forms Santa Clarita along with three other major communities. Aside from being used for the location of many TV series, Valencia is well known for being a safe neighborhood and having a convenient network of walkways (paseos) that connect the community without crossing streets at grade. Valencia is home to approximately 32,642 residents and attracts several visitors throughout the year. As a busy city, it is no wonder that arrests are made once in a while for driving under the influence (DUI) in which a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) hearing is very liable to take place.

It is normal for motorists to be unsure of their legal rights or defense opportunities when charged with DUI in Valencia. Many individuals arrested for drunken driving do not realize that the officer who arrests them will take away their driver’s license. A DMV hearing is available to arrested individuals as a way to retain driving privileges. However, a person has only ten days from the date of arrest to schedule a DMV hearing. Failure to do this will result in the automatic suspension of a DMV hearing and will suspend a person’s driving privileges for thirty days from the date of arrest.

The skilled Valencia DMV hearing attorneys at Wallin & Klarich understand how important it is for those arrested for DUI to understand their legal rights and receive quality counsel and representation. Our aggressive Southern California criminal defense lawyers have been defending the rights of individuals charged with DUI and other offenses for more than 30 years. We know what it takes to help our clients reach a positive outcome at their DMV hearing and in their DUI case. Call Wallin & Klarich today at 1-888-280-6839 for a case evaluation or visit www.wklaw.com for more important information.

January 19, 2010

Ontario DMV Hearings and DUI Defense Attorneys

Situated in San Bernardino County, the city of Ontario is home to approximately 171,691 residents. Interestingly, Ontario’s population has increased by almost one hundred times the size it was one hundred years ago. Now, it is the location of a small international airport and the Ontario Reign (an ECHL hockey team). With its economy mainly centered on service and warehousing, Ontario also has some agriculture and manufacturing facilities. Considering the vast amount of inhabitants and visitors who utilize freeways passing through Ontario as well as other roadways, arrests are made from time to time for driving under the influence (DUI) in which a hearing at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may take place.

Being arrested for DUI in Ontario may present many challenges and inconveniences. In addition, most people charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are not fully aware of their legal rights or what options are available to them in terms of building a strong defense. Many motorists do not realize that their driver’s license will be taken away if they are arrested for DUI. An individual only has ten days to schedule a DMV hearing from the date of their arrest to fend for their driving privileges. This is why having a skilled Ontario DMV hearing attorney on your side can help you be informed about how your case should be presented.

In order to make sure that your rights are accurately and aggressively defended after being charged with DUI in Ontario, you may want to contact the experienced Southern California criminal defense law firm of Wallin & Klarich. Our attorneys have been helping those accused of crimes, such as DUI, for more than 30 years. Wallin & Klarich has the legal resources and knowledge to assist you in obtaining a successful outcome at your DMV hearing and in your DUI case. Call Wallin & Klarich today at 888-280-6839 or visit www.wklaw.com to find out more about how we can help.