Monday - Thurs8AM - 5PM
Fri8AM-1PM
Offices4608 Rye St Metairie, LA 70006
PRACTICE AREASDui Attorney – Slidell & Metairie
A DUI charge can have serious consequences for your driver’s license, finances, employment, and future. Being accused of driving under the influence does not mean you are automatically guilty, and there may be important legal and factual issues that can affect your case. At Frank D’Amico, Jr., we defend individuals facing DUI charges by carefully examining the circumstances of the traffic stop, field sobriety testing, chemical testing, and arrest. We work to protect your rights and help you understand your legal options throughout the process.
Common DUI Issues
- Traffic Stop– Determining whether law enforcement had a legally sufficient reason to stop the vehicle.
- Field Sobriety Tests– Examining whether standardized field sobriety tests were properly administered and interpreted.
- Breath Tests– Reviewing the accuracy, maintenance, calibration, and administration of breath-testing equipment.
- Blood or Urine Tests– Examining the collection, handling, testing, and reliability of chemical evidence.
- Drug-Related DUI– Defending individuals accused of driving while impaired by prescription medications, illegal drugs, or other substances.
- Underage DUI– Representing younger drivers facing DUI allegations and the additional consequences that may apply.
- High BAC Charges– Defending cases involving allegations of particularly high blood alcohol concentrations and potentially enhanced penalties.
- Refusal to Submit to Testing– Addressing the legal consequences and potential license issues associated with refusing a chemical test.
- DUI License Suspension– Helping individuals understand and challenge driver’s license suspension or related administrative proceedings when available.
- Repeat DUI Offenses– Defending individuals facing additional DUI charges following previous convictions or allegations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am arrested for DUI?
Do not discuss the details of your case with anyone other than your attorney. Pay attention to any court dates or administrative deadlines and contact a DUI defense attorney as soon as possible. Prompt legal advice can be important because DUI cases may involve both criminal charges and driver’s license consequences.
Can I be convicted of DUI if my BAC was below the legal limit?
Potentially. The specific laws vary by jurisdiction, and a DUI charge may be based on allegations of impairment rather than solely on a particular BAC level. An attorney can review the evidence and circumstances of your arrest.
What if I refused a breath or chemical test?
Refusing a chemical test can have separate driver’s license or legal consequences depending on the applicable law. It does not necessarily determine the outcome of the underlying DUI case. An attorney can explain the potential consequences based on your circumstances.
Can a DUI charge be dismissed?
In some cases, charges may be dismissed because of insufficient evidence, problems with the traffic stop, improper testing procedures, constitutional violations, or other legal issues. Whether dismissal is possible depends on the facts and applicable law.
What happens to my driver's license after a DUI arrest?
A DUI arrest may result in driver’s license suspension or other administrative consequences, depending on the jurisdiction and circumstances. Some jurisdictions have separate administrative proceedings with strict deadlines for challenging a suspension.
Can I still drive while my DUI case is pending?
Whether you can legally drive depends on the status of your license, any suspension, and the applicable law. You should confirm your current driving privileges before operating a vehicle.
What are the penalties for a DUI conviction?
Potential penalties vary depending on the jurisdiction, BAC level, prior offenses, and other circumstances. They may include fines, license suspension, probation, alcohol or drug education, ignition interlock requirements, and potentially incarceration.
What if this is my first DUI?
A first DUI can still have significant consequences. However, the penalties and available options may differ from those associated with repeat offenses. An attorney can review your case and explain what you may face.
What if I was arrested for DUI involving drugs?
Drug-related DUI cases can involve different types of evidence and testing than alcohol-related cases. Prescription medications, illegal drugs, and other substances may be treated differently under applicable law. An attorney can evaluate the evidence and circumstances of the arrest.
Do I need a DUI attorney?
A DUI case can involve complex issues concerning traffic stops, field sobriety tests, chemical testing, constitutional rights, and driver’s license consequences. Frank D’Amico, Jr. can review the circumstances of your arrest, examine the evidence, explain your legal options, and work to protect your rights throughout the case.