tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81990310978386646522024-02-29T21:40:28.214-08:00Matthew Ruff, Top Rated DUI Lawyer in California. Drunk Driving Defense Attorney in Torrance Matthew Ruff, a DUI Lawyer in Torrance California dicusses societal trends, social mores and current California laws relating to Driving Under the Influence and drunk driving. If you have any questions contact Matthew directly at 310-686-1533Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger309125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-65773200236076436332022-07-11T18:30:00.006-07:002022-07-16T10:53:04.518-07:00Motion In Support of Elimination of The Permissive Inference Pursuant To VC23152(b)<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaEWSXvTZynedcOX4Dt4kuXWozxfNqCU5goIw2KUQaLT4vbSuJf9wsFdYKjQu3EbC3u_VnmLXwTnpY9rZsOblc5mLlwQ9Ze9bYcESADEWFeugtZEZBWoC_6Myxr3AGwlgs1bYDJjWmofx3JYS0CxEkSvAzef_wE46Nn9DpX-XOxwpNjTsFqzlu__m5/s2048/IMG_2497.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Top DUI Attorney, Matthew Ruff" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaEWSXvTZynedcOX4Dt4kuXWozxfNqCU5goIw2KUQaLT4vbSuJf9wsFdYKjQu3EbC3u_VnmLXwTnpY9rZsOblc5mLlwQ9Ze9bYcESADEWFeugtZEZBWoC_6Myxr3AGwlgs1bYDJjWmofx3JYS0CxEkSvAzef_wE46Nn9DpX-XOxwpNjTsFqzlu__m5/w320-h240/IMG_2497.PNG" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px;">In DUI </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: arial; font-size: 17px;">cases </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px;">it is important to present evidence to show your client was not driving with a BAC of .08 at the time of driving. If no evidence is introduced to refute this, the prosecution will ask to have the trier of fact “presume” the BAC reported was the actual blood alcohol level of your client at the time of driving.</span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px;">California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (b) in relevant part provides: “In any prosecution under this subdivision, it is a rebuttable presumption that the person had 0.08 percent or more, by weight of alcohol in his or her blood at the time of driving the vehicle if the person had 0.08 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in his or her blood at the time of the performance of a chemical test within three hours after the driving.”</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">“A rebuttable presumption requires the trier of fact, given a showing of the preliminary fact (here, that a chemical test result showed plaintiff had a BAC of 0.08 percent or more within three hours of driving), to assume the existence of the presumed fact (here, that plaintiff had been driving with a prohibited BAC) ‘unless and until evidence is introduced which would support a finding of its nonexistence, in which case the trier of fact shall determine the existence or nonexistence of the presumed fact from the evidence and without regard to the presumption.’ [Citation.] In other words, if evidence sufficient to negate the presumed fact is presented, the presumption disappears and “has no further effect”, although ‘inferences may nevertheless be drawn from the same circumstances that gave rise to the presumption in the first place.’” (Coffey v. Shiomoto (2015) 60 Cal.4th 1198, at pp. 1209–1210.)</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">In this case the testimony of the expert constituted evidence that, if believed, would support a finding of the nonexistence of the presumed fact—that the driver’s BAC was 0.08 or above at the time of driving. The expert’s testimony was founded on the recency of the driver’s drinking and was clear, direct and credible. Thus, the presumption disappeared and the trier of fact was required to weigh all the evidence and inferences to reach a determination regarding the driver’s BAC at the time of driving. The prosecution was required to rebut the evidence presented and failed to do so. Here, there was no evidence presented, no expert evidence contradicting the expert’s opinions and conclusions; the prosecution presented no evidence challenging the factual bases of the expert’s opinions.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">Based on the evidence presented at the hearing, including the expert testimony, we submit substantial evidence supports the determination that the driver rebutted the three-hour presumption and the weight of the evidence was in the driver’s favor.</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">Furthermore, in criminal prosecutions special rules apply:</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"> </span>"The California Supreme Court has held that a jury</p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">instruction phrased as a rebuttable presumption in a criminal case creates an unconstitutional mandatory presumption.</p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">(People v. Roder (1983) 33 Cal.3d 491, 497-505. In accordance with Roder, the jury instructions have</p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">been written as “permissive inferences."</p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-85505806085276574552022-03-01T11:10:00.002-08:002022-03-01T12:02:25.157-08:00Why Did I Receive A Notice of Suspension If I Haven’t Had My DMV Hearing?<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiy74I-BomwjpHqoRyWbqzxYZeqC-vad9ZarS0oBsMNIF2VOyU5Ocvh11UWEaJroTVBigbx5EX3tm6nr7y92PaRaLhxBZ9QebAl5BoiFWTluWT4FMZbAlkBrGoHyPhAcjnFtOMYTYX8QUAjRI8iARfNEufwPVht0knbYSTZyO2hm2tWS0A3hX8p6_bx=s2745" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2745" data-original-width="1299" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiy74I-BomwjpHqoRyWbqzxYZeqC-vad9ZarS0oBsMNIF2VOyU5Ocvh11UWEaJroTVBigbx5EX3tm6nr7y92PaRaLhxBZ9QebAl5BoiFWTluWT4FMZbAlkBrGoHyPhAcjnFtOMYTYX8QUAjRI8iARfNEufwPVht0knbYSTZyO2hm2tWS0A3hX8p6_bx=s320" width="151" /></a></div><br /> Oftentimes the DMV will send out a notice of suspension when a DMV hearing has already been set. Why is this? When you were arrested and released the officer filled out Paperwork and sent it to the DMV regarding the details of the incident. This is called the “Officer Statement” and DS367. Sometimes the officer fails to check the right boxes that he gave you a copy of the notice of suspension and when this happens the DMV will send out a new notice to ensure the driver was actually served with the paperwork. The problem originates from the fact that there are two different offices handling the case. One is the local Driver safety office where the arrest took place. The second is Sacramento Main Office where the paperwork gets sent after the incident. <p></p><p>When you hired us as your lawyer and we set up the DMV hearing with the local office the suspension was stopped and stayed pending that hearing. The second notice that you got comes from Sacramento because they don’t bother to check as it is all done electronically. </p><p>What does this mean for me? You don’t need to do anything. The new notice is just a duplicate and your driving privileges remain in effect because the attorney already set up a formal hearing. The whole thing is another example of the government not being efficient and one hand not knowing what the other is doing. The California Department of Motor Vehicles is a huge bureaucracy and this type of thing is common. As your attorney we are handling everything and appreciate that you let us know about the correspondence though as sometimes there are legitimate issues that need to be addressed, fortunately this is not one of them. Thank you again for retaining our Law Firm to defend you in your DUI case.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-54623366843260501292021-10-15T13:17:00.004-07:002021-10-15T13:19:34.470-07:00Preparing For Your Testimony at a DMV Hearing <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjFlOd_wyEQqvDISYVdGIFYfs-3v3PRZOi2r9PvGOHirKFKHEHsXVLBAAnALUO6_mLsapMgwFySY2_xbgDjJe9MbVZm7R_PVScq5Wk8TDiqM0c1LcjTgde3XpGfKN1uOIxRyPj8-Xvhdk/s342/AA40F899-2E3E-4F98-A091-2DA0C5D1A057.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Matthew Ruff, DUI Attorney" border="0" data-original-height="342" data-original-width="269" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjFlOd_wyEQqvDISYVdGIFYfs-3v3PRZOi2r9PvGOHirKFKHEHsXVLBAAnALUO6_mLsapMgwFySY2_xbgDjJe9MbVZm7R_PVScq5Wk8TDiqM0c1LcjTgde3XpGfKN1uOIxRyPj8-Xvhdk/w252-h320/AA40F899-2E3E-4F98-A091-2DA0C5D1A057.jpeg" width="252" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p> For close to 30 years I have been defending drivers in DMV hearings in California. During this period of time I have learned a thing or two about how Hearing Officers think and the manner in which they conduct the case. </p><p>In many cases I have my clients testify about the facts and circumstances surrounding the arrest or contact with Police. When I present client testimony it is usually to establish some important fact that will assist me in arguing that the officer failed to investigate the case properly or the client’s rights were violated in some way. </p><p>In DUI license suspension hearings I often ask my client to testify about the initial arrest, the breath or blood test or any refusal that is alleged.</p><p>What is the most important thing to do to prepare for your testimony?</p><p>First, read the officer’s report completely. Pay particular attention to any statement the officer claims you made. It is imperative to be consistent when testifying. If the officer reported that you said you drank two beers, you must be consistent and testify you drank two beers. You see, hearing Officers are trained to find a witness not credible if they give inconsistent statements. So if the officer reports you told him you stopped drinking at 2 a.m., you must testify consistent with that statement. That is, you stopped drinking at 2 a.m.</p><p>Read through the report and memorize the statements you gave the officer and stick with those statements.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-41175061400808155542020-09-28T21:16:00.009-07:002023-02-19T11:28:07.875-08:00What Reporting Requirements are there for a Pilot arrested for DUI?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKNG7folf7OXbQIQO0ZoE469PJiB9_98PzKALTCHFzdvfSo5WE_MU5CnV1aR36ZjgmdXlyCksnnsZpEL2vWtWIfJ2_J1EhlE7wPiJ24GQutTzBzYY-JX6zohyphenhyphen_ydI9DWIumdws4ZvFdxg/s616/IMG_2745.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="541" data-original-width="616" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKNG7folf7OXbQIQO0ZoE469PJiB9_98PzKALTCHFzdvfSo5WE_MU5CnV1aR36ZjgmdXlyCksnnsZpEL2vWtWIfJ2_J1EhlE7wPiJ24GQutTzBzYY-JX6zohyphenhyphen_ydI9DWIumdws4ZvFdxg/s320/IMG_2745.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px;">For most folks a DUI can have very severe consequences, however if you are a pilot the ramifications can be devastating.</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px;"> </span> <span style="font-size: medium;">Top California DUI Lawyer Matthew Ruff has over 25 years defending airmen and commercial pilots on drunk driving charges and DMV suspensions stemming from a DWI arrest. The arrest can be very worrisome and scary for a pilot due to the stress of the possibility of losing his or her job and career. Matt understands this and fights the underlying driving under the influence charge in criminal court and at the CA Department of Motor Vehicles. In order for Matthew to fight both cases effectively, he must be hired early in the case. If a pilot waits too long to hire an attorney, he or she may prejudice the case and decrease the chances of saving their pilot’s license with the FAA.</span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px;">Pilots are required to report the incident in a variety of ways.</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px;"> </span> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px;">There are three primary reporting obligations, and something the pilot will need to start in certain cases.</span></p><ol class="ol1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><li class="li1" style="font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">A Pilot needs to report any administrative license sanction based on operation of motor vehicle (suspension, revocation, or other deprivation of driver’s license/driving privilege) within 60 days of date of ALS to Civil Aviation Security in Oklahoma City. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>If ALS happens on arrest, that starts the clock, even if later stayed by court or licensing agency.</span></li><li class="li1" style="font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">The Pilot needs to report DUI conviction within 60 days of date of conviction to Civil Aviation Security in Oklahoma City.</span></li><li class="li1" style="font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">The Pilot needs to report the fact of a DUI arrest on AME exam (Airman’s Medical Exam), regardless of whether any thing happened after the DUI arrest (case rejected, diversion granted, no charges filed, tested under legal limit, blood tests returned .00 on everthing).</span></li></ol><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"> </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">Each report is independent of other reporting obligations.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"> </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">As a practical matter, once FAA (Civil Aviation Security in Oklahoma City or FAA Flight Surgeon/Medical) becomes aware of the DUI arrest, pilot clients typically go into FAA limbo where FAA lets pilot know FAA can’t “establish your eligibility to hold an airman medical certificate at this time” based on the answers to AME questions or reporting of ALS or conviction. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>FAA will require a response to determine eligibility to fly. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>If, and only if, it is a pilot’s first DUI in his or her lifetime, and airman submits to the chemical test, and chemical test results are below .15, airman’s AME examiner will be able to issue the airman’s medical certificate at time of AME exam so long as airman supplies all the information listed on the attachment to the AME physician. As such, make sure you have this available.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"> </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">If it is a pilot’s 2nd DUI in their lifetime, and/or if airman tested .15 or above, and/or if airman refused chemical test, airman will “need to submit complete copies of a current Substance Abuse Psychiatric evaluation performed by a Human Intervention Motivation Study (HIMS) psychiatrist, in accordance with the psychiatric portion only of the enclosed specifications. Please note that the evaluation must address your complete alcohol related history of usage and all offenses, and should include copies of all testing performed with a final diagnosis. All materials provided to FAA must also be provided to and commented on by the HIMS psychiatrist.” <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This psych evaluation isn’t quick, and if pilot has an ATP license (which requires an AME exam every six months), the pilot needs to start building his or her file and working on the psych evaluation to avoid a lapse in the license.</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">So what should a Pilot do if he or she has been arrested for DUI in California? First, understand that your driver’s license will be suspended administratively unless immediate action is taken to stay the suspension through the DMV. If you ignore the APS and your driving privileges are suspended that triggers a reporting requirement, even before you go to Court. Call Matthew immediately so he can stop the suspension from going through. </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">What about a charge reduced to a “wet reckless” ? The short answer is a plea to any reduced charge other than DUI or driving above the per se level is going to put the pilot in a better position to defend their pilot’s license with the FAA. However, even if the DWI is reduced, if the airman loses his or her drivers license at the CA DMV reporting is mandatory. Therefore, an aggressive two-part strategy is essential in order to put the pilot in the best position to keep flying. Over the last 25 years Matt has defended drunk driving charges for licensed pilots with great success.</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLyMvKuzp2xRBxXVSfVRvTJoBRpVFlThvpO2biVJ9e-eVApYkVGTBv4c8qjidHKg3aWbH2S6ohKrf5GIAUyFYJ3sTikmq7_-fvvZtY1FZOuiaq2SYaJcWlLmnc3xR4E9tzesbz1CfNwKrgWK5_2ZbnaipJj-tv831fp8KZLeqfY__L8PK9bUoNxEZB/s2518/7B1E958E-B339-4B54-B89F-8613E65743A1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DUI Attorney For Pilots" border="0" data-original-height="1578" data-original-width="2518" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLyMvKuzp2xRBxXVSfVRvTJoBRpVFlThvpO2biVJ9e-eVApYkVGTBv4c8qjidHKg3aWbH2S6ohKrf5GIAUyFYJ3sTikmq7_-fvvZtY1FZOuiaq2SYaJcWlLmnc3xR4E9tzesbz1CfNwKrgWK5_2ZbnaipJj-tv831fp8KZLeqfY__L8PK9bUoNxEZB/w320-h201/7B1E958E-B339-4B54-B89F-8613E65743A1.jpeg" title="FAA Reporting for DUI" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span class="s1"><br /></span><p></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">A DUI can be a life changing event for many commercial pilots. California DUI Attorney Matthew Ruff has over 25 years defending driving under the influence cases for clients. Matt can be reached on his cell at 310-686-1533.</p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><br /></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-60715875950151263172020-08-16T09:49:00.019-07:002023-12-19T14:33:27.182-08:00License Suspended for DUI? Here’s how to get it back.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJgzM3l_NbxZC_BgouCv_AXKRBI7xIb73pRgtdkgVzivBZqSRjJFDO9HwTuc9YUN-_Xv_7tWT55MEeqzBYSlz6UqJNk7KBkJHl6VtOiIUCT0NQdwa2QObo_YMBJ_MLXWtKKGCpybwW8wE/s4032/IMG_2247.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Torrance DUI Attorney, Matthew Ruff" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJgzM3l_NbxZC_BgouCv_AXKRBI7xIb73pRgtdkgVzivBZqSRjJFDO9HwTuc9YUN-_Xv_7tWT55MEeqzBYSlz6UqJNk7KBkJHl6VtOiIUCT0NQdwa2QObo_YMBJ_MLXWtKKGCpybwW8wE/w328-h246/IMG_2247.HEIC" width="328" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p> In California if you are over 21 and arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol with a .08 or more the DMV will seek to suspend your driving privileges for up to 9 months administratively, assuming you have no priors, not on probation and submitted to a chemical test at the request of a peace officer.</p><p>Assuming you have not been convicted in Court for VC23152 or VC23153, once the suspension goes into effect you can get reinstated with a restricted license, here are the options available to you:</p><p><b>Option 1</b>. Get reinstated immediately with the installation of an IID and a SR22. This is a device mounted in your vehicle that requires you to produce an alcohol free breath blow in order to start the car. This option allows for full non commercial driving privileges that allow you to drive anywhere you want anytime you want as long as you have the IID. This restriction runs for up to 6 months, after that you can get the IID removed and have your full license reinstated. You will need to also <a href="http://duitimes.blogspot.com/2015/06/getting-enrolled-in-dui-class-early.html?m=1">enroll in an approved alcohol program </a>(AB541 at a minimum), obtain the proof of IID installation DL920, provide proof of financial responsibility by way of an SR22, then visit a local DMV office (appointment recommended) and pay the mandatory reinstatement fee of approximately $145</p><p><b>Option 2</b>. Apply for an employment/treatment program restricted non-commercial license. This license allows you to drive only to and from and during course of employment and to and from the DUI classes. The benefit of this restriction is that is does not require an ignition interlock (IID). The restriction runs for up to 12 months and requires a 30 day “hard” suspension where you cannot drive at all. After the 30 days you can apply for the restriction as long as you get <a href="http://duitimes.blogspot.com/2015/06/getting-enrolled-in-dui-class-early.html?m=1">enrolled in an approved DUI program </a>(AB541 minimum), obtain proof of financial responsibility (SR22), and visit a DMV office to pay the $145 reinstatement fee. This restriction lasts for up to 12 months after which time you can get your full license back.</p><p><br /></p><p>It must be understood that both of the options above assume you have NOT been convicted in Court of DUI or DUI with injury. If you have been convicted in Court or believe you will be convicted in Court you may have similar options but the period of the restrictions run for a longer period of time.</p><p>If you choose not to take advantage of any of the restriction options you can simply ride out the suspension which lasts anywhere from 4-9 months and get reinstated thereafter once you have obtained an SR22 and paid the reissue fee.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYasidK_FHESBEisBDOgZd00jdV5cAA8kkEB35D7RevsGXacWkp_m3W0nIdbzinSoOPZSczJfUQ-SVGDjEQVDFdd6VDj-m5tFNoPXHEKNKsMtqOMfE8tcu8YOhpfmb0EjaRI0fFCQV_P_8glefLajEcSsPDmYBCgnA6QZavwMkKpOGH5z7ryTUh978opE/s1422/419AF71D-E75A-4687-8AC3-2325BE619A46.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1422" data-original-width="1286" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYasidK_FHESBEisBDOgZd00jdV5cAA8kkEB35D7RevsGXacWkp_m3W0nIdbzinSoOPZSczJfUQ-SVGDjEQVDFdd6VDj-m5tFNoPXHEKNKsMtqOMfE8tcu8YOhpfmb0EjaRI0fFCQV_P_8glefLajEcSsPDmYBCgnA6QZavwMkKpOGH5z7ryTUh978opE/s320/419AF71D-E75A-4687-8AC3-2325BE619A46.jpeg" width="289" /></a></div><br /><p>Note: If you have a commercial license you must downgrade to a non-commercial license as your commercial driving privileges will be disqualified for a period of one year. Also, if you have any other holds such as FTA, child support or negligent operator suspensions then the above restriction options may not be available to you.</p><p>If you have any questions call Top California DUI Attorney Matthew Ruff for a consultation direct on his cell phone at 310-686-1533.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-16650207101121494772020-06-23T14:17:00.000-07:002020-06-23T14:17:02.241-07:00Getting Your License Back After A DUI Arrest With a Prior<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqq73-C0kAdB2O85DL2cgW-p_d_9YgVxBiWa_z6vdlZ0wYHElCX7qFLUvPxJLEd4VOqX5nH9946HJdD26fc_tZiLM609gsxCob3znTi3LdCvRPDPzsCHzae3jAy7Rg8Wm8AfkUoEIZ_ro/s1600/2E18047B-EF34-4674-AE3F-3567EBB593E4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How To Get A Restricted License After A DUI" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqq73-C0kAdB2O85DL2cgW-p_d_9YgVxBiWa_z6vdlZ0wYHElCX7qFLUvPxJLEd4VOqX5nH9946HJdD26fc_tZiLM609gsxCob3znTi3LdCvRPDPzsCHzae3jAy7Rg8Wm8AfkUoEIZ_ro/s320/2E18047B-EF34-4674-AE3F-3567EBB593E4.jpeg" title="Getting Your License Back After A DUI" width="240" /></a></div>
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This article will provide information about how to get your
license reinstated after a DUI suspension.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This article is intended for people who have multiple DUI convictions on
the record if the DMV suspended your driving privilege based on an APS
suspension also known as .08 or more you are eligible to obtain a restricted
license immediately with the installation of an IID. With this restriction you
can drive any time anywhere as long as the vehicle you are driving is equipped
with an ignition interlock device (IID).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You will have this restriction for up to one year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To apply for this restricted license must do
the following:</div>
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<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Provide proof of enrollment in a suitable DUI
program. This program is called the SB38 program.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">The program is for a period of 18 months.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Provide proof of insurance. This is referred to
as an SR 22 document that must be filed directly from your insurance provider to
the DMV.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Provide proof of in ignition interlock device, this
is done using a DL 924 The IID provider will typically file this directly with
the DMV however you may need to present it to the DMV along with your other
paperwork.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">You must pay a reissue fee of $125, to the DMV. L</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">astly, you must have no other holds or suspensions
on your driving privileges for child support or any failure to appear.</span></li>
</ol>
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Once you have satisfied the above requirements you should
visit the DMV office, and appointment is recommended. Assuming all of the above
have been satisfied you will receive a hard license from the DMV that is very
similar to the license you had before your arrest. It is important to
understand that this restricted drivers license applies only to the APS <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>suspension.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-72922106112778819222020-05-18T09:08:00.000-07:002020-05-18T09:08:04.945-07:00California DMV During COVID-19 Pandemic <div class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span class="s1" style="font-weight: bold;">DUI AB541 and SB-38 Program Enrollment & Counseling</span></div>
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<span class="s2">According to DMV sources, DUI program locations are enrolling and scheduling counseling. California is allowing in-person or Telehealth (video) for those following COVID-19 guidelines. AA attendance is taking place online through different web based providers. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It is advisable to check with the classes in your area to determine whether they are participating in the virtual attendance scenario and research and find out which DUI programs in the areas can provide these services. </span></div>
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<span class="s2">California DMV has reopened select field offices to assist customers with transactions for in-person visits, such as DL-920 form (proof of IID installations).</span></div>
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<span class="s2">The following 25 field offices a re now open </span><span class="s3" style="direction: ltr; unicode-bidi: embed;">Monday - Friday</span><span class="s2"> from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the exception of opening </span><span class="s3" style="direction: ltr; unicode-bidi: embed;">at 9 a.m.</span><span class="s2"> on Wednesdays.</span></div>
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<span class="s1" style="font-weight: bold;">California DMV Offices that are open during the COVID-19 Pandemic:</span></div>
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<span class="s2">Arleta | Bakersfield | Carmichael | Concord | Fontana | Fresno | Fullerton | Glendale | Inglewood | Lancaster | Los Angeles | Modesto | Montebello | Oakland | Claremont | Palm Desert | Redding | Salinas | San Diego Normal | San Francisco | San Joe DLPC | Santa Ana | Santa Rosa | Stockton | Yuba</span></div>
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<span class="s2">During the COVID-19 pandemic, California Department of Motor Vehicles is encouraging customers to use online services, virtual services, and other service channels to complete transactions, including driver license and vehicle registration renewals. </span></div>
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<span class="s2">DMV employees are instructed to maintain physical distancing while serving customers in a DMV field office. DMV staff may direct customers to online services and other available options for transactions that do not require an office visit, New appointments are not currently available. Employees in the remainder of DMV's 170 public offices will provide services through the Virtual Field Office, The DMV plans to open these offices in phases during the coming weeks. </span></div>
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<span class="s2">More information on office openings will be provided on the California DMV website.</span></div>
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<span class="s2">If there is no DMV office open in your clients' area, they also may email a scanned copy or picture of their proof of ignition interlock (DL-920) after the install to their provider. Many companies will then fax it to the mandatory action unit (MAU). </span></div>
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<span class="s2">Drivers may still need to contact MAU </span></div>
<div class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span class="s2">at 916-657-6525 regarding any fees owed.</span></div>
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<span class="s2">DMV</span></div>
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<span class="s2">P.O. Box 242890</span></div>
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<span class="s2">MS - J233-MAU</span></div>
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<span class="s2">Sacramento, CA 94290-0001</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-20288445595206644622020-02-19T17:57:00.007-08:002024-01-12T15:31:08.923-08:00Convicted in Court? How To Get Your License Back After A DUI<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH3jBkE2jSF36hXPRzwOIXuzcoCoDUVlCbsyUTki-SPRgzIf6wIAxtAngjpRGzGhFSieOgR-AuI_NGfwP_AMIVj_-OGZXbyoAJLFDinBOr6Idokllv4ioJxeWgd-enf6IZickyCsLpaRg/s1600/8DC014B8-827C-442A-B398-DF6E8053A0FA.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH3jBkE2jSF36hXPRzwOIXuzcoCoDUVlCbsyUTki-SPRgzIf6wIAxtAngjpRGzGhFSieOgR-AuI_NGfwP_AMIVj_-OGZXbyoAJLFDinBOr6Idokllv4ioJxeWgd-enf6IZickyCsLpaRg/w169-h300/8DC014B8-827C-442A-B398-DF6E8053A0FA.jpeg" width="169" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggI2yP9CXZYFsRQKqGCc78BIWBjWQgp2eWandHxoSj6nppW4jnK5jOrQNxRCu94KBNl2RIWjDMNrzFc98IIAtGTKxE89AoeLEGRhL54Fj3JS5vDWOrftczB_cGjy4cWA7Bq0pmEHEVaIAJP2bL0ZGEf1uKf1QgPg2L15mgwVlYOapYH_GMmTeULfcg/s4032/36C50CF8-ED8C-41DE-A85B-B9B2FB3244F4.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggI2yP9CXZYFsRQKqGCc78BIWBjWQgp2eWandHxoSj6nppW4jnK5jOrQNxRCu94KBNl2RIWjDMNrzFc98IIAtGTKxE89AoeLEGRhL54Fj3JS5vDWOrftczB_cGjy4cWA7Bq0pmEHEVaIAJP2bL0ZGEf1uKf1QgPg2L15mgwVlYOapYH_GMmTeULfcg/s320/36C50CF8-ED8C-41DE-A85B-B9B2FB3244F4.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /></div>
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As if the arrest for DUI was bad enough, the frustration in dealing with the DMV in order to get your license reinstated can be even more traumatic. Remember, the police officer probably took your physical license from you at the time of arrest and you were issued a "temporary license" that you have been driving on since your release. That temporary license did not have your photo and many entities will not accept it as a valid form of ID.<br />
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This article is written to provide critical information necessary for a person to get their official photo license returned following a driving under the influence resolution in Court. Shortly following the Court resolution you will receive a letter from the DMV titled “Order of Suspension”. <div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeRbXwtN_6DA3h4SrU_kRwX08OWAUygd4BiRTSrutl25rMT-3ehgdednE68l9P2o5awvCDurcXI0Eu2tdJSYiygSCNkRgwCJva4R2VejRgQHaAhHphJlPcMaA4QzQpFNphkdMlg4jvcM197fgc1l56NluOjMa-Z1tnQSSCEcH4tdZOHlVCfELpI4wA/s2180/203D8B2E-C3B0-40A7-B5B8-8B5802C02B2E.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2180" data-original-width="1635" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeRbXwtN_6DA3h4SrU_kRwX08OWAUygd4BiRTSrutl25rMT-3ehgdednE68l9P2o5awvCDurcXI0Eu2tdJSYiygSCNkRgwCJva4R2VejRgQHaAhHphJlPcMaA4QzQpFNphkdMlg4jvcM197fgc1l56NluOjMa-Z1tnQSSCEcH4tdZOHlVCfELpI4wA/s320/203D8B2E-C3B0-40A7-B5B8-8B5802C02B2E.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><b>Here is the step by step process to follow to get your drivers license reinstated:</b></div><div>
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<ol>
<li>Get enrolled in the appropriate DUI school, bring the referral paperwork you got from Court or you may need to get a DMV printout (sometimes referred to as an H6) and take that to the school you select so they can determine the length and type of program you will need to attend. Make sure they file the correct form with the DMV, they will sometimes give you the official form which you can file yourself, but you are paying them a fee so they should do it for you. You generally just need to get enrolled in order to qualify for the reinstatement, however the school will tell you what is required for the proof of enrollment to be filed.</li>
<li>Make sure you have an SR-22 filed with the DMV. An SR22 is nothing more than an official proof that you have the minimum required proof of insurance mandated by the DMV. You cannot simply send in the little card you got from the insurance company, that will not be sufficient. The proof must be sent in by the insurance company in order to comply with CA law.</li>
<li>Assuming you do not have any prior convictions, decide which option works better for you: <b>Option 1 </b>is to wait out the full 6 months and don’t drive. <b>Option 2</b> is to get an Ignition Interlock installed in your vehicle, an IID requires you blow into it and have no alcohol for the car to start. The DMV will check to verify the ownership of any vehicles registered to you or any person at the home in which you reside and have access to. If you do not own any vehicles, use any vehicle or have access to any car at the residence there is a waiver which you can fill you and send to the DMV. Once installed you can drive ANYWHERE you want but must have it for 6 months. <b>Option 3</b> is get a RESTRICTED license that allows you to drive only to work and school for a period of one year with no IID.</li>
<li>You must pay re-issue fees to the California Department of Motor Vehicles. This fee ranges from $140 to $240 dollars and must be submitted in order to receive your original license.</li>
<li>Ensure you have no outstanding tickets or "holds" on your license such as tickets you never paid, failures to appear and any outstanding child support payments.</li><li>Lastly, you should be advised a DUI conviction results in 2 points on your DMV record. If the driving under the influence case involved an accident this could add an additional point. You are allowed 3 points in 12 months. However, if you have more than one additional point on your record the Department will suspend you a different way called a negligent operator. If you receive notice of this you should consult a lawyer immediately as a separate hearing can be requested to challenge the action and possibly avoid the suspension. </li>
</ol>Finally, make sure the administrative hearing process is finalized. This means if you have a pending APS license suspension hearing scheduled, contact your attorney or the DMV directly to resolve this proceeding. This article is applicable to first time offenders only and will generally not apply to those who have had a prior DUI within the last 10 years, a prior administrative alcohol suspension either as an adult or minor or are facing a refusal suspension for failure to submit to or complete a breath or blood test at the request of a police officer. If you had a commercial license you will need to downgrade to a non-commercial. Other complications can be presented if the person seeking reinstatement is an out of state resident or is unable to comply with the departmental directives due to military involvement. In these cases you should contact a <a href="https://www.bestduidefense.com/">California DUI Attorney</a> for guidance.<br />
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-77369279107748426792019-09-15T14:15:00.001-07:002019-09-15T20:48:36.433-07:00Can A Search Warrant For Blood in a DUI Be Challenged?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ever since the US Supreme Court announced that forcibly withdrawing blood from a drunk driver is illegal, police all over the State of California have been obtaining search warrants to draw blood in driving under the influence cases. What I have seen though is many officers are not putting enough information in the warrant affidavits to satisfy the legal requirements of probable cause. To understand what I am talking about, let’s go into what the law requires for the issuance of a search warrant.<br />
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In order for a warrant authorizing a search to be valid the officer seeking it must convince a judge that “probable cause” exists to believe the place or persons to be searched contain evidence of a crime. Probable cause is generally defined a a “fair probability” that evidence may be found to support a crime. Probable cause must be established with facts, not conclusions. What many officers are doing is providing conclusionary statements in the affidavit such as the person was displaying “symptoms of intoxication” instead of articulating the actual observations to let the judge decide.<br />
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A “bare bones” affidavit contains nothing more than conclusive statements which lack the facts and circumstances from which a judge can independently determine probable cause. Most affidavits in DUI cases are pre-printed, check the box type forms and therefore officers get lazy in articulating sufficient <u>facts.</u><br />
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As a general rule, a warrant that is issued on insufficient probable cause is subject to a motion to quash. However, the District Attorney will try to save the warrant by arguing the officer acted in good faith on the judicially authorized warrant and therefore the evidence should not be suppressed.<br />
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In response to that argument Counsel should argue that good faith doesn’t apply when the facts show that no reasonable officer would have believed probable cause existed. This is where the attorney should get into his training and establish he is taught to articulate his or her’s basis to believe probable cause existed, though facts not conclusions.<br />
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<a href="http://www.bestduidefense.com/Cities-We-Serve/Torrance-DUI-Attorney.aspx">Torrance DUI Attorney</a> Matthew Ruff has over 25 years experience fighting and winning suppression motions in drunk driving cases throughout California, including Redondo Beach, Los Angeles, Palos Verdes and Manhattan Beach CA.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-25615631038869973822019-08-22T10:18:00.001-07:002019-08-22T18:54:47.703-07:00Can Police Take Blood From an Unconscious DUI Suspect Without a Warrant?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Yes, according to the United States Supreme Court. In the case of Mitchell vs. Wisconsin the Justices resolved a long standing issue as to whether law enforcement could perform a warrantless blood draw on a DUI suspect if they are unconscious and unable to give valid consent. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> The facts of the case are not that uncommon: </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: "uictfonttextstyletallbody";"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Po</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">lice received a report that Mitchell, who was under the influence of alcohol, climbed into a car and drove away. When found, Mitchell was wandering near a lake, stumbling and slurring his words. A preliminary field breath test revealed a BAC of 0.24% and Mitchell was arrested. On the way to the police station for a more reliable breath test, he lost consciousness and was taken to the hospital instead. His blood was drawn and reflected a BAC of 0.22%. After he was charged with drunk driving offenses, Mitchell moved to suppress the blood test results as obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment. The State relied on its implied consent law to justify the blood draw. The motion was denied and Mitchell's subsequent convictions were upheld in state court. The U.S. Supreme Court granted certiorari. Held: Vacated and remanded. A blood draw is a search of the person. The Fourth Amendment guards against unreasonable searches and generally requires that a warrant first be obtained. However, the exigent circumstances exception to the warrant requirement applies when the compelling need for official action renders a warrantless search reasonable. In drunk driving cases an exigency exists when (1) BAC evidence is dissipating and (2) some other factor creates pressing health, safety, or law enforcement needs which take priority over a warrant application. Both conditions are met when a drunk-driving suspect is unconscious because this creates a medical emergency requiring treatment and will usually involve the drawing of blood anyway. This could delay the application for a warrant which might distort the evidentiary value of a blood draw. There may be an unusual case where a defendant can show that his blood would not have been drawn if police had not been seeking BAC data, and that police could not have reasonably judged that a warrant application would interfere with other pressing duties. Because Mitchell did not have a chance to attempt to make this showing, the case was remanded for this purpose. ( Courtesy of CCAP).</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: "uictfonttextstyletallbody";">This case will set the tone for state Courts in deciding whether implied consent laws allow for blood draws without a warrant under their individual state statutes. In California the Supreme Court is currently deciding that issue in the Arredondo Case.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-10035161911402405002019-07-21T15:26:00.003-07:002019-07-22T09:04:50.487-07:00Boating Under the Influence DUI Attorney<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In California it is illegal to operate any watercraft on navigable waters while under the influence of alcohol or drug or combination of both. What constitutes “under the influence “? The law defines this term as anyone who, because of alcohol or drug intoxication, is impaired to the degree that he or she can no longer operate a watercraft with the caution characteristic of a sober person under similar circumstances. Knowing when a person reaches this level is a question that a jury ultimately must decide and can be subject to opinion and conjecture. Matthew Ruff is an authority in the area of casting reasonable doubt on the state’s case in drunk boating prosecutions.<br />
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This area of the law is very unique and distinguishable from driving under the influence of motor vehicles. Matthew Ruff has 25 years experience defending good people accused of crimes involving the misuse of alcohol and he is an expert in cross examination of the arresting officer on sobriety tests and all chemical tests including breath testing, blood tests, urine testing for both drugs and ethanol and preliminary alcohol screening (PAS) devices of all kinds including the Alcosensor 4 and 5.<br />
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Regardless of the type of craft, Matt can help. Jet Ski, fishing boat, he has handled cases of all types. Matt can often go to Court for you, saving you the stress and worries of appearing before a Judge.<br />
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If you or someone you love is facing a BUI in California, any Court, including Long Beach, Torrance, Catalina, Santa Clarita, Kern County, Los Angeles County or any other Court in the state, call Matt for a free case assessment and consultation about the ins and outs of boating under the influence defense and the law.<br />
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Matt can be reached on his cell at 310-686-1533.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-17266072044662171902019-07-21T09:09:00.000-07:002019-07-21T09:15:58.401-07:00Can You Beat A License Suspension on a DUI?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In California the law requires that a drivers license be suspended for up to three years if a person is arrested for DUI and completes a chemical test that is above the legal limit or refuses to complete a test upon the request of a police officer. The DMV requires that a person request a formal hearing to challenge the requisite suspension and prove that the Department’s evidence is insufficient to justify the action. Statewide the success rate in winning a DMV hearing is very low. However, experienced lawyers often prevail much more frequently. <br />
Below is a recent case where Matthew won the hearing on a zero tolerance DUI probation case because of an evidentiary issue he uncovered in the State’s paperwork.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-64816479021854299692019-05-04T10:48:00.015-07:002022-07-18T14:57:30.263-07:00Arrested For DUI or Criminal Charge on Catalina Island?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Top DUI Attorney on Catalina Island</b> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In search of a criminal defense attorney that can fight charges brought against you on Catalina Island? Matthew Ruff can help. Matt has over <b>25 years experience</b> fighting all types of criminal charges in California. Matt is a Top Rated Nationally Recognized Lawyer with unparalleled skills and local connections to ensure you get the best results in your case. The Court in Avalon is part of the Los Angeles Superior Court System and typically only hears cases every other Friday. If you were released on the Island and given a date to appear in the future to answer to allegations of Public Intoxication, DUI, Theft, Domestic Violence, Drug Possession or any other misdemeanor or Felony charges call Matt for a free case review and assessment of your options and legal defenses.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b> Call Matt Direct on His Cell 310-686-1533</b></div>
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Arrested on Catalina Island?</b> You Need the services of an experienced criminal defense attorney who can appear for you and fight the charges. As COVID restrictions ease many people are resuming travel to the island and blowing off some steam having been cooped up for a year or more. When your vacation results in an unexpected arrest you need an advocate to defend your rights, keep your record clean and save your license. Criminal Lawyer Matthew Ruff has defended dozens of cases on Catalina ranging from public intoxication, DWI, Drug Charges, Assault, resisting arrest, theft, fishing violations, Domestic Violence and many others. <br />
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Every year thousands of people flock to the Island of Catalina for fun in the sun, fishing, boating and nature. The land is part of the State of California and law enforcement is provided by the Los Angeles Sheriff. Criminal statutes are strictly enforced and many folks are arrested and cited for various infractions, misdemeanors and felony offenses. Matthew defends all criminal violations originating on the Island and the Surrounding Pacific Ocean. If you have questions about the next steps, wondering if driving a golf cart while drunk is a real crime, or other concerns such as how you are going to find the time to show up in Court, Matthew can help.<div><br /></div><div>During their stay on the island many visitors will rent a Golf Cart to tour the local attractions such as Descanso Beach or Chimes Tower or Avalon Canyon. The vendors do little to verify your level of intoxication before renting the cart and you drive off for a fun ride. Unfortunately, if an accident happens and the LASD show up they might smell alcohol on your breath and administer field sobriety tests, if you fail they will arrest you and take you to the local station for a breath or blood test. In California if a driver is arrested for driving under the influence they are required to submit to a chemical test to determine the alcohol content of their blood, if the officer suspects drugs such as marijuana he or she can also require a urine or blood test in addition to a breath test. If you are an out of state resident you may decide to refuse all testing, however that can present separate issues with regard to your driving privileges.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMnAFP0Ostmsw6Sn8Dvs3FQF1yu20JQDU6R0AQSeV1Zmce9keHaS1e_YuzEImZaX0_ToERS9U9Ki3yqpx6esG6lp7lu-elbOnCRMhLHW4bzkEvA3YgbPDs4IFk5aWp_vP6ogfTosX6964/s1414/25329E7F-E398-4A35-8615-D327EF383B98.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Best DUI Attorney on Catalina Island" border="0" data-original-height="1414" data-original-width="1174" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMnAFP0Ostmsw6Sn8Dvs3FQF1yu20JQDU6R0AQSeV1Zmce9keHaS1e_YuzEImZaX0_ToERS9U9Ki3yqpx6esG6lp7lu-elbOnCRMhLHW4bzkEvA3YgbPDs4IFk5aWp_vP6ogfTosX6964/w266-h320/25329E7F-E398-4A35-8615-D327EF383B98.jpeg" title="Best Catalina DUI Attorney" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><b>If you were arrested for DUI in a Golf Cart in Avalon Attorney Matthew Ruff can help.</b> Is it illegal to drive a golf cart while under the influence? Yes, the CA Vehicle Code defines a “vehicle” broadly as any device that is propelled by anything other than human power. In California it is possible to be charged with drunk driving in a golfcart if you are on a public roadway or a location accessible by the public and are driving when you are a .08 or higher BAC or are under the influence of alcohol or any drug. Fortunately Matt has 25 years experience defending good people charged with these offenses. For example, Matt was hired recently by an out of state resident arrested for DWI in Avalon while on vacation. The client searched online and found that Matthew was a local attorney who defended cases on the island. She hired Matt and was able to avoid traveling back to California for the arraignment. Matt also recently represented a client charged with Public Intoxication after he was found in someone’s backyard in Avalon extremely inebriated. After some wrangling with the DA Matt got the case dismissed so it wouldn’t affect the client’s criminal record.</div><div><br /><b>Call Top Rated Catalina Island DUI Attorney Matthew Ruff Directly at 310-686-1533</b><br />
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The Island of Catalina has its own Court which handles all criminal cases originating on the Island. However, all Felony cases are transferred to Long Beach Court on the mainland. Other charges such as Public Intoxication, assault, Domestic Violence, Fish and Game Violations including poaching and lobster offenses and drug related charges are also prosecuted by the local District Attorney in Avalon. The Island also sees a fair number of boating under the influence cases, sometimes referred to as BUI, Matt has extensive experience fighting these cases. The Court is part of the Los Angeles Superior Court system.<br />
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California Vehicle Code 23152 is the applicable law for driving under the influence, the crime is a misdemeanor. If injury was involved the offense is 23153, this offense can be either a felony or a misdemeanor depending on the severity of the alleged injury. Matthew Ruff has been successful in many cases to have the charges dropped or reduced if the circumstances warrant such relief. Most cases involve a breath test and Matt is very knowledgeable in challenging the machine used which is a Datamaster Device.<br />
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<br />If you were issued a citation to appear in the Catalina Court the law allows for a private attorney to appear for you, thereby saving needless travel expenses. Matthew has handled countless cases in the Avalon Court and knows the local DA and Judge that will be Hearing your matter. <br />
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Call Catalina Island Criminal Defense Attorney Matthew Ruff Direct at 310-686-1533</b><br />
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Top Tier Catalina Criminal Defense Attorney Matthew Ruff has the experience defending cases in the Avalon Court before Judge Mirich and Deputy District Attorney Karen Brako. This experience equates to a better result in your case because he knows the individual proclivities and personalities of the decision makers. For example, in a case involving possession of drugs the lawyer will take a certain approach that has been effective in the past with that kind of case. In a public intoxication case a distinctly different approach will be taken in order to try an get charges dismissed or dropped. Hire the law firm that has the 25 years of experience getting results for clients charged with exactly the thing you are facing.<br />
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Matthew’s experience handling serious cases recently paid off for a client who hired him on a Felony DUI with Injury case out of Catalina. The client was from out of state and vacationing in Avalon when an accident occurred with the golf cart, causing the ejection of the passenger on to the street. A breath test revealed a high BAC above .20. Matt fought the case, both at the DMV and in Court. He got the felony charges dropped and beat the case at the DMV license suspension hearing. In another recent case Matt defended a young lady arrested for DWI in a golf cart on the island near downtown. The client refused to submit to a chemical test and was booked. Matthew fought the case arguing his client was not driving the vehicle at a time her BAC was at or above the legal limit and was able to get ALL CHARGES DROPPED in June 2022, the best part about it is she never had to come to Court!</div><div><br /></div><div> If you or a loved one is facing an upcoming case, call Matt directly at 310-686-1533, in many cases he can appear in Court for you, thereby avoiding expensive travel and time off from work.<div><br /></div><div><br />
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</div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-81448298860655005832019-03-19T10:42:00.001-07:002024-02-29T08:05:39.278-08:00Getting an SR-22 For Reinstatement of Your LicenseIn California, before the DMV will reinstate a person’s driving privileges following a DUI the individual must file what is called an SR-22 with the Department. An SR22 is formal proof that the person has the minimum requirements of insurance coverage required by law. There are many ways to get the SR22, according to the experts some are better than others.<br />
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One way to get an SR22 is to simply call your current carrier and let them know you want them to file it for you. This approach works fine for folks who were involved in an accident as part of the DUI and therefore their insurance company is already aware of the incident. However, if your insurance company is unaware of the arrest some experts believe it is imprudent to let them know because they may cancel you or increase your premium. This leads us to another option.<br />
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There are many insurance services that exist to find an alternative route for clients to obtain an SR22 in a more affordable manner. These companies are out there and you can conduct your own research by googling SR22 Providers on the Internet. Most insurance experts agree in many cases it is best to get the SR22 before the suspension hits your driving record.<br />
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Here are some companies that clients have used in the past:<br /><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"><div style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;"></span><br style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;" /><div class="MsoNormal" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
Cliff Jones</div>
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Fresh Start Insurance Services, Inc.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="x-apple-data-detectors://0/1" style="color: #954f72; text-decoration: none;" x-apple-data-detectors-result="0/1" x-apple-data-detectors-type="address" x-apple-data-detectors="true">3855 E. La Palma Ave.</a> ste.234<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anaheim, Calif. 92807<o:p></o:p></div>
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Office-(844) 44-FRESH (37374)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Direct- <a href="tel:(657)%20220-9317" style="color: #954f72; text-decoration: none;" x-apple-data-detectors-result="1/0" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors="true">(657) 220-9317</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Mobile-(310) <a href="tel:529-1049" style="color: #954f72; text-decoration: none;" x-apple-data-detectors-result="1/1" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors="true">529-1049</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="mailto:cliff@freshstartins.com" style="color: #954f72; text-decoration: none;">cliff@freshstartins.com</a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">Breathe Easy Insurance </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">+1 (857) 891-8608</div>
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Please be aware that our office does not endorse these companies and we do not receive any kind of referral fees from them. It is best to talk with as many people in the industry to see what route works for you in your case.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-19520552910632829372018-12-21T08:00:00.001-08:002019-01-16T06:54:52.820-08:00New California IID Law, SB-1046 Allows First Time DUI Offenders to Keep License<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg3vMeEuBMSmZNYfPfQKkX6SWqcfR7ZIoTkQrtDyncCgOl1p-dZNxul1AuZ46t0gpIE3TMZG-5dtzvSc3T47okzls9JLZDJtKIDWOMwvMLMW7RqdDFUrysjWPecn9fZFYq9xc10afAlSg/s1600/456CFAA3-3889-4788-8F0A-11F7243F1A24.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg3vMeEuBMSmZNYfPfQKkX6SWqcfR7ZIoTkQrtDyncCgOl1p-dZNxul1AuZ46t0gpIE3TMZG-5dtzvSc3T47okzls9JLZDJtKIDWOMwvMLMW7RqdDFUrysjWPecn9fZFYq9xc10afAlSg/s320/456CFAA3-3889-4788-8F0A-11F7243F1A24.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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As of January 1, 2019, SB-1046 becomes law in California. The new law has important implications for first time DUI offenders since it allows the person to keep their driving privileges as long as they install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle. Prior to the passage of this law offenders faced the possibility of losing their driving privileges for a minimum of 30 days before they could request an early reinstatement. SB-1046 allows the person to avoid this hardship by installing an approved IID (either prior to or after a conviction).<br />
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An Ignition Interlock Device is a piece of hardware connected to your vehicle’s ignition system that prevents the car from starting if the driver has alcohol in their system. The in car breathalyser will lock out the ignition if the driver blows a .03 or higher, much less than the state limit of .08. For more information about IID devices and where to find them, visit my page discussing <a href="http://duitimes.blogspot.com/2015/08/facts-about-ignition-interlocks-iid-in.html">IID in California</a>.<br />
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So, here is the important question: When is the soonest I can get my license back in California if I am arrested for a DUI? Starting in 2019 a first time offender for driving under the influence can get reinstated almost immediately if they get an IID installed in their car, file proof of insurance by way of an SR22 and pays the required fees. However, before you do this it may be prudent to consult a lawyer who can stop the suspension and review the case for possible defenses that could result in the charges being dropped or reduced, thereby eliminating the need for an ignition interlock altogether.<br />
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To recap: First time offenders over the age of 21 who were arrested for VC23152 and submitted to a chemical test will now have two options for reinstatement of their license under California SB-1046:<br />
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1. Install an IID ( Ignition Interlock Device) in their vehicle prior to a conviction in Court and avoid the 30 day hard suspension previously required under the APS laws.<br />
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2. Serve a mandatory 30 day APS suspension and accept a 12 month suspension with a restriction that allows the person to drive only to and from work and the mandated DUI classes.<br />
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This new SB1046 legislation is a major change to the previous laws in California that required an offender to be without a license for a month unless he or she could win the DMV APS Hearing. Under the new law offenders who immediately install an IID will regain their driving privileges without having to serve the dreaded “hard suspension” as previously required, meaning there is no interruption in their driving privileges. The law allows for this early license reinstatement to be modified in specific cases by the Court and DMV. Final implementation of the new law is being worked out and may be changed subject to Judicial approval.<br />
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What is bad for the rest of the state is good for Los Angeles County. Prior to the new law only LA County and a handful of other jurisdictions required the IID mandatorily. Under the new law all counties will be required to participate. First offenders must keep the ignition interlock in their car for 6 months.<br />
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The new IID Law in California also requires installers to provide low cost alternatives for those who qualify and can show they lack the income to pay the regular costs of monitoring, typically $50-$100 a month.<br />
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It is important to reiterate that this new mechanism for early reissue of your license applies only to drivers over 21 who submitted to a chemical test. If you refused a test you may not be eligible for this early reinstatement. Every DUI case has unique defenses and potential issues so it is important to speak with a lawyer about your specific case in order to understand the options available to you.<br />
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My question is why is California implementing a statewide requirement of IID installations when the studies of the initial pilot program concluded IID requirements did not impact recidivism for DUI offenders. <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-13369595358777063932018-11-27T22:05:00.000-08:002018-11-27T22:05:10.265-08:00Why Was My DMV Hearing Postponed?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDJ5vOi8MTi1Uw7OCSK8_FRtaCsjKYUL-2Rt1xe03AzwpP3ex9tteoZ3pWXonaUDxoLE5TSOdg0Wcm3uSO3MlIOKlB9j2475lAtYPUG-2scbifFCt7N4JYAfRkaQ7ZixXgNkn6RiT6Ck0/s1600/456CFAA3-3889-4788-8F0A-11F7243F1A24.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDJ5vOi8MTi1Uw7OCSK8_FRtaCsjKYUL-2Rt1xe03AzwpP3ex9tteoZ3pWXonaUDxoLE5TSOdg0Wcm3uSO3MlIOKlB9j2475lAtYPUG-2scbifFCt7N4JYAfRkaQ7ZixXgNkn6RiT6Ck0/s320/456CFAA3-3889-4788-8F0A-11F7243F1A24.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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The purpose of the DMV hearing is to fight the suspension of your drivers license following a DUI arrest. California law requires that the DMV suspend your license from anywhere from 4 months to 3 years depending upon the facts of the case and your driving record. At the hearing the Department will consider the police report and other evidence submitted by the arresting officer such as the breath test results, blood test results or evidence that you refused the test and any other observations.<br />
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As your attorney it is my job to do everything I can to fight the suspension and keep you driving. In order to do that I put together legal defenses and objections to the evidence submitted by the arresting officer. I challenge every aspect of the case that can lead to winning the hearing. Sometimes I have a conflicting Court appearance or another hearing that interferes with your hearing and for that reason a continuance is granted. In other cases a witness may be unavailable or unable to attend, this to can be a reason the hearing is postponed. There are many reasons that can exist to cause the hearing to be continued to a new date.<br />
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When will the new hearing date be set? Once a hearing is postponed it takes at least a couple weeks for a new date to be agreed upon. The DMV contacts me and requests a certain hearing date and time and if that date is agreeable with my schedule it is set and you are notified by mail.<br />
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Is a continuance of the hearing beneficial? Absolutely, when a hearing is rescheduled your license remains valid. Also, the more time that goes by is more favorable to the client because if evidence is presented by way of a police witness they are less likely to remember details, also, sometimes evidence gets lost which obviously benefits the accused.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-10040183337031743542018-07-26T09:49:00.000-07:002019-10-01T10:20:39.993-07:00Things I Can Do To Help My Attorney in My DUI Case<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKigiLgat2XKo7U6xffWXce_jxcSK8KyTGmtn5TqCuCvp5R7odE14pd5ZInPDQmx8_N61u7HFtvZRJm3ONm-9x0C0FQ0g4G6BmIRllr-RpOezTjb7TnrPL6li1pmr6svggHVmbAnGN97g/s1600/IMG_2497.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Top DUI Attorney, Matthew Ruff" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKigiLgat2XKo7U6xffWXce_jxcSK8KyTGmtn5TqCuCvp5R7odE14pd5ZInPDQmx8_N61u7HFtvZRJm3ONm-9x0C0FQ0g4G6BmIRllr-RpOezTjb7TnrPL6li1pmr6svggHVmbAnGN97g/s200/IMG_2497.PNG" title="Matthew Ruff, Top DUI Attorney " width="200" /></a></div>
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A DUI arrest can be a very scary experience to say the least. The night in jail, the trauma of being handcuffed in public and placed in a police car, all of these things can lead to anxiety and stress. But the worst is over, you’ve hired an attorney who has over 25 years experience fighting and winning drunk driving cases and you can rest easy knowing everything is being handled to protect your rights and ensure a favorable result.<br />
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Here are a few things you can do to assist Matthew in preparing for and defending the case, both in Court and at the DMV:<br />
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<li>Prepare a brief CONFIDENTIAL statement of the incident. Since the events are still fresh in your mind you should write out a couple paragraphs about what led to the police contact, include anything you think is important for the attorney to know. Remember, the police officer wrote a full report detailing the facts as he perceived them, this is your opportunity to prepare your version of the event so the attorney can have that in his file. The statement can be very informal in the way of an email or electronic format in notes, pages, or whatever app is convenient for you. Email the statement to matthewruffesq@gmail.com while your recollection is still fresh.</li>
<li>Prepare a brief biography of you. This allows the lawyer to have personal facts about you that allows him to humanize you when talking to the DA or the Court about your case. Include where you grew up, where you went to school, your work history, and volunteer work you may have done, awards you may have received, etc.. Remember, the DA is only going to see you through the report the police write which is not going to show you in the best light. Provide some positive background to Matt so he can have that at his fingertips when he is discussing your case. A Resume or CV could also be provided in lieu of the history.</li>
<li>Let Matt know if you have ANY medical problems such as diabetes, acid reflux, GERD, joint or muscle conditions, recent dental work or any medical procedure on or near the date you were arrested. Some medical conditions can affect the sobriety tests or chemical test that may have been administered.</li>
<li>Make sure Matthew has all of your contact information and notify him if it changes at any time. Make sure we can get in touch with you to update out about your case.</li>
<li>Notify Matthew if you receive any correspondence pertaining to the case. Oftentimes the DMV or Court will send you information directly, so be sure to contact the attorney if you receive any mail or notification relating to the case.</li>
<li>KEEP THE ARREST TO YOURSELF. The arrest is just an accusation, you've not been convicted or adjudicated guilty. Therefore, there is no need to tell your insurance company (You may need to notify them of any collision, however the DUI arrest is not something you should volunteer), your employer, or anyone else about the case, unless you have some contractual duty to do so such as a written agreement to notify your employer or some other obligation such as a professional license requirement.</li>
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Thank you again for allowing us to represent you in this matter.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-30120847215064437282018-06-06T10:45:00.001-07:002018-07-21T16:03:02.477-07:00How To Get Your License Back After a Second DUI<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYsyIOcQU4g_QK8Wd068-9su7ALqmUtwNXzswwsbDK6Ss3CSlklgQho8cP6ZgPFoM2OgnWiOXg61941x6um0mieOb_lYKvf_wbzW5KBQi8lSqXlMKavXtx96OPqYSHGNwnZbAlsEg6c_E/s1600/IMG_2525.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Matthew Ruff, Torrance DUI Attorney" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYsyIOcQU4g_QK8Wd068-9su7ALqmUtwNXzswwsbDK6Ss3CSlklgQho8cP6ZgPFoM2OgnWiOXg61941x6um0mieOb_lYKvf_wbzW5KBQi8lSqXlMKavXtx96OPqYSHGNwnZbAlsEg6c_E/s320/IMG_2525.PNG" title="Torrance DUI Attorney " width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Torrance DUI Attorney </td></tr>
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California will suspend your license for up to three years after a second DUI within a 10 year period. However, there is a way to get it back as soon as 90 days if you meet certain criteria. First, you must have taken a breath or blood test. If you were marked as a refusal the early reinstatement does <u>not</u> apply. Second, you must not have been convicted of DUI with injury and the DUI must have involved alcohol, not drugs.<br />
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You must wait 90 days after the Court resolution in order to seek an early reinstatement. You will generally get 2 letters from the DMV. The first is the APS suspension, that is one year. The second is the Court suspension, that is two years, however they run concurrently. </div>
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Assuming the Court case and administrative hearing process are both resolved here is what you need to do in order to get your license back after a second DUI in 10 years:</div>
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<ol style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
<li>Get enrolled in the 18 month second offender DUI school ordered by the Court. Take your paperwork from the Court to your chosen class and make sure they file the correct form with the DMV, they will sometimes give you the official form which you can file yourself, but you are paying them a fee so they should do it for you. If you are a California resident you should confirm the class satisfies the requirements of the DMV. If you are a non-CA resident be sure to speak to your attorney about the options you have. Make sure the program also files the enrollment certificate with the Court as well. You must do this within 21 days of the resolution in Court so do not delay.</li>
<li>Make sure you have an SR-22 filed with the DMV. An SR22 is nothing more than an official proof that you have the minimum required proof of insurance mandated by the DMV. It is best to get the SR22 as soon as possible. You cannot simply send in the little card you got from the insurance company, that will not be sufficient. The proof must be sent in by the insurance company in order to comply with CA law.</li>
<li>If the offense occurred in Los Angeles County you must install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. The DMV will check to verify the ownership of any vehicles registered to you or any person at the home in which you reside and have access to. If you do not own any vehicles, use any vehicle or have access to any car at the residence there is a waiver which you can fill you and send to the DMV, but the State will not reinstate your license unless and until you install an IID in a vehicle you drive</li>
<li>You must pay a re-issue fee to the California Department of Motor Vehicles. This fee ranges from $140 to $240 dollars and must be submitted in order to receive your original license.</li>
<li>Ensure you have no outstanding tickets or "holds" on your license such as tickets you never paid or any FTA or failure to appear.</li>
</ol>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Remember, you must first endure a 90 day hard suspension during which time you cannot be caught driving otherwise your vehicle will be impounded at you will be facing a new Misdemeanor charge.</span></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-25361490578502766322018-02-18T11:02:00.002-08:002018-02-18T11:02:57.485-08:00Can Police Search Your Car For Marijuana in California Here is the scenario, an officer stops you for a traffic violation and subsequently sees evidence of possession of a legal amount of marijuana. Can they proceed to search your car on that basis? No, the law allows for possession of recreational marijuana and prohibits police from conducting exploratory searches on that basis alone. Specially, H&S § 11362.1(c) clearly provides that marijuana possessed under lawful circumstances is “not contraband nor subject to seizure,” nor does a subject’s lawful conduct pursuant to section 11362.1(a) “constitute the basis for detention, search, or arrest.” Also, People v. Torres et al. (2012) 205 Cal.App.4th 989, 993-998, held that a warrantless search upon the speculative belief that more marijuana than lawfully allowed may be found is illegal.<br />
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There are instances where a police officer may be justified in detaining you however. H&S § 11362.3(a) makes it illegal (an infraction) to smoke or ingest marijuana (1) in a public place (subd. (a)(1), which arguably includes in a vehicle while out on the public streets or in any other public place), (2) anywhere where smoking tobacco is prohibited (subd. (a)(2)), (3) within 1,000 feet (including simple possession, whether or not it’s being smoked, if on the grounds) of a school, day care center, or youth center while children are present (subd. (a)(3) & (5)), or (4) while driving or operating, or when riding in the passenger seat or compartment, of a motor vehicle, boat, vessel, or aircraft (subd. (a)(7) & (8)). It is also illegal for anyone to (5) possess (whether or not it’s being smoked) an open container or open package of marijuana while driving, operating, or riding in the passenger seat of a motor vehicle, boat, vessel, or aircraft. (Subd. (a)(4)). <br />
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Based on the foregoing, As long as you are over 21, there are no open containers inside the vehicle and you are not smoking the pot inside the car, there would be no legal basis to conduct a search of the vehicle for more marijuana.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-18360142360009079442018-02-11T08:44:00.003-08:002018-02-11T08:54:43.109-08:00Does Submission To An Officer’s Authority Constitute Consent To Draw Blood in a DUI Case?No, says People vs. Ling (2017) 15 Cal App 5th Supp. 1<br />
The Court held the People bear the burden of proving that a consent was, in fact, freely and voluntarily given. “This burden cannot be discharged by showing no more than acquiescence to a claim of lawful authority.” (Bumper v. North Carolina (1968) 391 U.S. 543, 548.) To be effective, consent must be voluntary. Voluntariness is to be determined by considering the “totality of the circumstances.” It is also the rule that “assent” alone is not necessarily “consent.” “Consent, in law, means a voluntary agreement by a person in the possession and exercise of sufficient mentality to make an intelligent choice, to do something proposed by another . . . . [Assent] means mere passivity or submission, which does not include consent.” Neither is there consent when all we have is the mere submission to an express or implied assertion of authority. Defendant in this case was told that “(b)ecause you’re under arrest for DUI, you have to submit to a chemical test, which is a test of either your breath or your blood.” Never was he asked if he was willing to summit to such a test. Telling him that he “has to submit” to a chemical test of his blood communicates a reality where the chemical test will be conducted against defendant’s will, if necessary. He was also never given the opportunity of choosing between providing a breath sample or a blood sample.<br />
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In Ling, the Court found the defendant’s lack of physical or verbal resistance to submitting to a blood test, by itself, does not mean that he had consented to the procedure. In sum, the Court noted that “(t)he People fail to point to any evidence in the record showing that defendant consented to the blood draw nor could they.” The evidence instead shows that defendant submitted to a blood draw and that this submission was due to the officer's expression of lawful authority. As concluded by the Court; “absent evidence to the contrary, it cannot be presumed that individuals under arrest could reasonably construe a direction from an arresting officer that they must take some action as a mere query as to whether they will voluntarily consent to it. Consequently, the totality of the circumstances shows defendant did not consent to the blood draw.” The blood results, therefore, should have been suppressed.<br />
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In most DUI arrests the officer will read the suspect an advisement informing him or her of their obligations and rights to submit to a chemical test in the state of California. Here, that was not done.<br />
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It is clear that the arresting officer in this case was either totally oblivious to, or chose to ignore, the plethora of recent (i.e., post Missouri v. McNeely (Apr. 17, 2013) 569 U.S.__ [133 S.Ct. 1552].) cases discussing the need for a full explanation of the V.C. § 23612 implied consent rules, along with evidence that a DUI arrestee do more than merely acquiesce, and actually consents, to a blood or breath test, in order for the results to be admissible in court. The Court in fact makes some reference to the need for law enforcement officers to stay up on the law if their arrests are going be of any benefit. ( Courtesy of Robert Phillips).<br />
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The rule in this case is as follows: The results of a blood test in a DUI case are inadmissible absent evidence that the defendant did in fact consent to the taking of a blood sample. A mere submission to authority is not consent.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-76756322993223619522017-11-26T11:03:00.001-08:002022-07-25T09:58:42.529-07:00I Received A Letter From California Board Of Nursing About My DUI, What Do I Do?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM0W_8XvwpcLoIwXqN3SQalF5Q8jVjAyel-FX-cS_gimE2DaJM7Mjrq0kYHD2I-yLMNJSEShZiuHNRCesJ-LeIT2lr1m3LLgVn9fnbmdOLl5IEg8l3QiKhW5_BhbakBpb8KZuvTO5zdcs/s1600/Nurse.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="What should you do as a nurse arrested for DUI" border="0" data-original-height="113" data-original-width="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM0W_8XvwpcLoIwXqN3SQalF5Q8jVjAyel-FX-cS_gimE2DaJM7Mjrq0kYHD2I-yLMNJSEShZiuHNRCesJ-LeIT2lr1m3LLgVn9fnbmdOLl5IEg8l3QiKhW5_BhbakBpb8KZuvTO5zdcs/s1600/Nurse.jpg" title="How to respond to the California Board Of Nursing about my DUI Arrest" /></a></div>
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California has some of the toughest laws that allow the state to take away a professional license if you are convicted of DUI. Matthew Ruff has been fighting for nurses to prevent a DUI conviction and subsequent disciplinary action from the Board Of Nursing.<br />
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If you have been arrested for DUI in California and have a nursing license chances are the License Board will be notified of the arrest. By law when a person holding a professional license is arrested the licensing agency is automatically notified at which time an investigation will commence. The Board of Nursing will contact you for information about the law enforcement contact, it is always in your best interest to cooperate. <br />
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Regulations pertaining to the licensing of nurses in the state of California impose sanctions for a failure of the license to cooperate in a Board Investigation. For example, California Code Of Regulations Sections 2504.1 and 2518.8(c) provides that licensees are required to provide the Board lawfully required documents and cooperate in any investigations or risk disciplinary action.<br />
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The California Board Of Nursing can take action against an RN, LVN or nursing assistant if they have engaged in conduct relating to their duties. In DUI cases the state will want to see if the person is abusing drugs or alcohol to the extent that it affects their ability to care for their patients.<br />
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You may receive a letter requesting information about the incident. What should you do. Cooperate. You are required by law to respond. You should email, fax or mail a response with 30 days. If you ignore the letter the Nursing Board will presume you have something bigger to hide and will react more aggressively than if you simply respond and acknowledge the arrest, while at the same time asserting you have not been found guilty or adjudicated by any Court. At the end of the day an arrest is simply an accusation and in this country you are presumed innocent until the contrary is proven in a Court of law.<br />
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Here is a <u>sample</u> letter of the information you should provide:<br />
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(Date)<br />
(Your name, address and phone number)<br />
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California Board of Nursing<br />
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Case No.<br />
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To Whom it may concern,<br />
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I was arrested on (give the date) by the (give the law enforcement agency, CHP, Los Angeles Sheriff, etc). I was given a Court date of (provide the date). I have hired attorney Matthew Ruff to represent me. His number is 310-527-4100.<br />
<br />I intend to cooperate fully with your investigation. <br />
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Should you require any additional information feel free to contact me.<br />
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Sincerely<br />
(Sign your name here)<div><br /></div><div><br />
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-28789475627975287022017-11-26T00:17:00.001-08:002018-12-30T22:36:38.974-08:00DUI Attorney For Airline PilotIf you were arrested for DUI in California and you fly for a living Matthew a Ruff can help. For 25 years he has been defending clients charged with driving under the influence, many of whom were pilots who faced the loss of their pilot license by the FAA.<br />
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A drunk driving arrest will be treated differently depending on what you do for a living. If you are a commercial pilot a DUI can be devastating if not handled properly. The FAA dictates the rules for pilots and what they do outside of work can also be considered. If you fly for a living your company may also take action against you. Here is what you need to know right now:<br />
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First, an arrest for driving under the influence is just an allegation. Until there is some adjudication of guilt by a Court or governmental agency it remains an accusation only and you have rights. <br />
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What about Mandatory reporting requirements? Yes, there are specific requirements to report a DUI conviction or administrative license suspension to the FAA. Specifically, under 14 CFR 61.15 all pilots are obligated to report the incident to the FAA. However, that only applies if you are <u>convicted</u> or your drivers license is actually <u>suspended</u>. If you hire an attorney within 10 calendar days of the arrest an actual suspension of your drivers license can be avoided pending a hearing on the issue. <br />
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The first thing to do is hire a professional to assist you. A DUI arrest for a pilot is not the type of thing you can handle DIY. Find a lawyer local to the area where you were arrested. The attorney should be well versed in the consequences a conviction will have on the pilots license and his job. Immediate action must be taken to avoid a mandatory suspension of the drivers license on an administrative level as a suspension from the DMV may trigger a mandatory duty to report the incident to the FAA.<br />
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Attorney Matthew Ruff has represented many pilots for DWI and alcohol related offenses in the last 20 years with remarkable success. Here are two recent examples of cases where Matt achieved phenomenal results.<br />
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Case example 1: Matthew was retained by a pilot living in the South Bay after he was arrested in Redondo Beach for DUI. He was caught up in a sobriety checkpoint and was arrested after the officers detected an door of alcohol on his breath, poor performance on FST's and slurred speech. He took a breath test that reported his BAC to be .10 percent, .03 higher than the legal limit in California of .08 or more. Matt immediately contacted El Segundo DMV Driver Safety for a hearing and demanded a stay of the suspension of his driving privileges. He obtained the reports and evidence and carefully scrutinised them for evidentiary issues. He was able to uncover problems with the test and worked with his toxicologist to build a Defense. He used that strategy to negotiate a dismissal of the DUI charges in Torrance Court and subsequently obtained a set aside of the administrative suspension of his license.<br />
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Case example 2: A commercial pilot was arrested in Long Beach for public intoxication after he was contacted by police leaving a bar on Pine. He spent the night in jail and was released with a Court date. He hired Matthew who immediately understood the consequences this would have on the client's job and FAA licensing. Matt reached out to the local prosecutor and ultimately all charges were dropped prior to any Court date. This resulted to no arrest record that could hurt the client's employment or pilots license.<br />
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If you are a pilot facing a criminal offense in California, Los Angeles, Redondo Beach, Torrance, Manhattan Beach or anywhere else, contact Matthew at 310-527-4100 for immediate help and advice on what to do.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-79147472610476676852017-11-09T10:14:00.001-08:002017-11-09T17:56:58.499-08:00Matthew Ruff, Top Rated Attorney <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgybZJxWWL7GQCgcxVrW7QvFW3owdMjBxnHRWW13F_q2yHUHlNDqyFWXi0Qkry8cI5YJSHnswYeEGqJWPjRCJysy_-qaFNTovtcrIdUsIH-a3FoJyN09ZsFzZrKVeX8_Zm5qH6A4mof_Tg/s1600/avvo.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="245" data-original-width="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgybZJxWWL7GQCgcxVrW7QvFW3owdMjBxnHRWW13F_q2yHUHlNDqyFWXi0Qkry8cI5YJSHnswYeEGqJWPjRCJysy_-qaFNTovtcrIdUsIH-a3FoJyN09ZsFzZrKVeX8_Zm5qH6A4mof_Tg/s1600/avvo.bmp" /></a></div>
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Matthew Ruff is a Top Rated attorney with over 20 years experience. All of the Internet rating services have given a Matthew the highest award, based largely on his experience and client feedback. Read all of <a href="https://www.avvo.com/attorneys/90504-ca-matthew-ruff-275880.html">Attorney Matthew Ruff reviews</a>. Here is one example of a recent review posted by an actual client (edited to protect identity)<br />
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".....thanks again for your assistance. I have read horror stories about the [first attorney I almost hired] and I am 100 percent certain I would have had a different outcome if I had retained his services. I am quite pleased with this outcome. I am going to remember you for quite some time and if any LA based pilots or those passing through have any legal issues and I become aware of it, I am going to insist they contact you and retain your services. I am carrying your contact info in my wallet. It is hard to find a stand up person nowadays in a profession that attracts the likes of [first attorney I almost hired]. I cringe at the thought of how much I could have spent on that guy or someone like him out of desperation, only to support their lavish lifestyle and horrible work ethic. Your honest good work has been a breath of fresh air. All the best. "<br />
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Matthew is always appreciative of the kind words sent by his clients.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-49623764258592299532017-06-05T12:27:00.004-07:002018-08-10T22:03:26.452-07:00DRE Use in Marijuana DUI Cases Called Into QuestionThe use of Drug Recognition Experts in Marijuana DUI investigations is on the rise. Indeed, the numbers of officers with the enhanced training have proliferated over the last few years, influenced heavily by the changes in the laws related to recreational use of pot. <br />
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While training of any kind is certainly a good thing, it is important to not place too much reliance on the DRE. Certainly cops who go through the block of extra training and are certified as a DRE are better suited to evaluate a suspected drugged driver, however we must be careful to not place too much emphasis on their conclusions. <br />
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Indeed, many of the DUI arrests associated with marijuana are based primarily on admissions by the defendant. If the person admits to have smoked pot or ingested an edible containing THC the Officer builds his investigation with that in mind, often “finding” symptoms to fit within his predetermined conclusion that the driver is impaired due to marijuana.<br />
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Recently, the Press Enterprise published an article discussing these issues. The article can be viewed here <a href="http://www.pe.com/2017/06/03/drug-recognition-experts-gain-importance-as-pot-duis-increase/">Attorney Matthew Ruff Quoted in DUI Marijuana Article</a>.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8199031097838664652.post-89812033195165791532017-05-28T11:37:00.000-07:002017-05-28T11:37:15.875-07:00The Defense Of Officer Induced Confusion in a DUI Case<div style="color: #454545; font-family: '.SF UI Text'; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: '.SFUIText'; font-size: 17pt;">In a DUI case it is not uncommon to see a driver arrested and refuse to submit to a chemical test. When this happens the attorney will look for a defense to the refusal in order to get around the suspension and revocation the DMV seeks to impose. One possible defense is known as officer induced confusion. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: '.SFUIText'; font-size: 17pt;">It is well recognized in law that when an officer simultaneously reads a driver his implied consent warnings (no right to refuse a test and no right to consult with or to have an attorney present during its administration) in conjunction with the </span><span style="font-family: '.SFUIText-Italic'; font-size: 17pt; font-style: italic;">Miranda</span><span style="font-family: '.SFUIText'; font-size: 17pt;"> admonition (right to refuse interrogation and to have an attorney present at all stages of a police interrogation, etc.), it will likely induce confusion. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: '.SFUIText'; font-size: 17pt;">Therefore, in cases where a driver has been given </span><span style="font-family: '.SFUIText-Italic'; font-size: 17pt; font-style: italic;">Miranda</span><span style="font-family: '.SFUIText'; font-size: 17pt;"> insists on the presence of an attorney before choosing a test the courts have recognized that he [or she] may have been confused by the two warnings and the officers failure to clarify and explain the difference. In such a case the refusal to take a test has been held not to be a refusal within the meaning of California Vehicle Code section 13353. (</span><span style="font-family: '.SFUIText-Italic'; font-size: 17pt; font-style: italic;">Rust v. Department of Motor Vehicles</span><span style="font-family: '.SFUIText'; font-size: 17pt;"> (1968) 267 Cal.App.2d 545, 547.) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: '.SFUIText'; font-size: 17pt;">The question of officer-induced confusion is one of fact, often dependent on statements in the report indicative of the defendants desire to speak to a lawyer coupled with signs of confusion about the officers demand for an answer to which test to take. When a driver who has been given </span><span style="font-family: '.SFUIText-Italic'; font-size: 17pt; font-style: italic;">Miranda </span><span style="font-family: '.SFUIText'; font-size: 17pt;">manifests confusion by asserting his [or her] alleged right to an attorney, it is incumbent upon the officer to explain that the right does not apply to these tests. (</span><span style="font-family: '.SFUIText-Italic'; font-size: 17pt; font-style: italic;">McDonnell v. Department of Motor Vehicles</span><span style="font-family: '.SFUIText'; font-size: 17pt;"> (1975) 45 Cal.App.3d 653, 658. The failure of an officer to clear up the confusion renders any alleged refusal to submit to a test insufficient to suspend a drivers license as a result.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: '.SFUIText'; font-size: 17pt;">Matthew Ruff is a <a href="http://www.bestduidefense.com/Cities-We-Serve/Torrance-DUI-Attorney.aspx">DUI Attorney in Torrance</a> with over 20 years experience fighting both criminal charges and DMV suspensions in California.</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0