Crowley DUI Lawyer

Crowley DUI Attorney

If you have been charged with driving under the influence, also known as driving while intoxicated (DWI), in Louisiana, you should seek qualified legal counsel as soon as possible. Take action early in the criminal justice process by contacting a skilled Crowley DUI lawyer. They understand how to effectively guide you, offer helpful advice, and represent you in all legal settings.

At The Law Office of Joshua S. Guillory, our dedicated defense attorneys are reliable, experienced, and assertive. We believe in aggressively advocating for our clients in the face of the criminal justice system. Our founding attorney, Joshua S. Guillory, works closely with clients and explains the legal implications of their cases, their civil rights under Louisiana law, and the weight of the charges against them.

Understanding DUI Laws in Crowley, LA

In Louisiana, it is illegal for a driver to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or other substances. Under the influence implies an impairment that affects a driver’s normal faculties and ability to safely drive. In addition to alcohol, drivers can be arrested for driving while impaired by prescription medication or illicit or controlled drugs.

Drivers may be arrested for DWI if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is above the legal limit, 0.08% for adult drivers or 0.02 percent for minors under 21. If the arresting officer has reason to believe drug impairment is present, they can perform a custodial arrest without a BAC validation.

BAC can be tested using a breathalyzer or a blood test. Drivers may even be custodially arrested for drunk driving if their BAC is seemingly within the legal limits. This is because determining impairment is at the officer’s discretion.

In 2023, 30.1% of motor vehicle crashes in the state of Louisiana involved alcohol-impaired driving, totaling 261 fatalities. In 2023, approximately 30.1% of crashes were alcohol related, with an estimated 244 fatalities caused.

Hire a DUI Lawyer with Experience in Crowley DUI Cases

Even if you believe the situation is a simple misunderstanding, you should not face DUI charges alone. It is highly advised that you hire a Crowley Criminal defense lawyer who understands the state DUI laws, legal procedures, and expectations that can impact your Crowley DUI case. When you need a qualified and skilled Crowley DUI attorney, you can feel confident bringing your case to The Law Office of Joshua S. Guillory.

Where Are DUI Cases Usually Processed in Crowley?

The courthouse that processes a DUI case in Crowley depends on the details of the situation. Many preliminary matters and most misdemeanor-grade offenses go through the Crowley City Court. This courthouse is located at 425 N. Parkerson Ave, Crowley, LA, 70526.

Felony-grade offenses and some misdemeanor-grade offenses may instead go through the 15th Judicial District Court for Acadia Parish. The Acadia Parish Courthouse is located at 500 N. Parkerson Ave, Crowley, LA, 70526.

The courthouse that oversees your case can vary according to where the alleged offense took place, among other factors. Verify with your defense attorney the addresses of any proper venues or other locations you should expect to interact with over the course of your case.

FAQs About Crowley, LA DUI Laws

What Should I Do if I Have Been Arrested for DUI in Louisiana?

There are several things to keep in mind if you have been arrested for DUI in Louisiana. It is important to try to remain calm and comply with law enforcement. Be polite to the police, but you don’t have to answer questions beyond your name and basic information. You have the right to remain silent, and you should do so. Contact a Crowley DUI attorney from our firm and wait for them to advise you on answering questions.

Can a First-Time DUI Be Dismissed in Crowley?

Yes, it is possible for a first-time DUI charge to be dismissed in Crowley, although it is never guaranteed. Your strongest chances of getting the charge dropped are with the help of an experienced DUI criminal defense attorney. Your lawyer understands how to effectively argue for the case to be dismissed, depending on whether your civil rights under Louisiana law were violated or due to the lack of evidence the prosecution has access to.

What Are the Penal Consequences for a DUI Conviction in Louisiana?

The penal consequences for a DUI conviction in the state of Louisiana can depend on the defendant’s criminal history, whether aggravating factors were present, and other details. Penalties for a DWI may include:

• Fines and court costs
• Parish jail time or Department of Corrections custody and/or court-ordered community service
• Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device in the defendant’s vehicle
• Administrative license suspension (ALS)
• Mandatory participation in a substance abuse evaluation and treatment program and/or a driver improvement program

What Are Defenses Against a DUI Charge in Louisiana?

Some defenses against a DUI charge in Louisiana include:

• Unlawful traffic stop: If the officer lacked probable cause, any evidence gathered during the stop can be suppressed.
• Unreliable field tests: A lawyer can question the validity of field sobriety tests, especially if the defendant has physical ailments that inhibit their performance.
• BAC testing issues: If the breathalyzer was not calibrated, the blood draw wasn’t properly conducted, or other testing issues occurred, an attorney can argue the results can’t be used.

How Long Does a DUI Case Usually Take in Louisiana?

In the state of Louisiana, how long it may take to finish a DUI case can vary according to the defense strategy, the case complexity, court scheduling, and other details. Generally, a DUI process under the Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure may take anywhere from a few months to a year or longer to fully resolve. There is no standard timeline for a DWI case because every situation is different.

Speak to a DWI Defense Attorney Who Gets Results

At The Law Office of Joshua S. Guillory, we are committed to serving our clients with assertive legal defense based on a strategy tailored to their unique needs. We understand how significantly a DUI can impact your future. That’s why our attorneys take their job very seriously and give your case the time, attention, and care it deserves. Reach out to our team to schedule a consultation.