The Versatility of a Burbank DUI Lawyer: Defending Against Multiple Charges

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense that carries severe legal penalties, and being charged with DUI in Burbank can have significant consequences. A skilled Burbank DUI lawyer understands that these cases are often more complex than they may initially appear.

In many situations, a DUI charge may come with additional allegations such as reckless driving, vehicular manslaughter, or drug possession. The versatility of a Burbank DUI lawyer lies in their ability to navigate these interconnected charges, building a strong defense tailored to the unique circumstances of the case.

In this article, we will explore the multiple charges a DUI lawyer may need to defend against, the strategies they employ, and the importance of hiring a qualified attorney in Burbank.

Understanding DUI Charges in Burbank

DUI charges in Burbank are typically filed when a driver is found to have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or if law enforcement suspects impairment due to alcohol or drugs. However, DUI cases can vary significantly, depending on the severity of the incident and whether other charges are involved.

A DUI charge can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on factors like:

• Prior DUI convictions
• The level of intoxication (BAC)
• Presence of minors in the vehicle
• Whether an accident occurred and caused injuries or fatalities

Common Multiple Charges in DUI Cases

When someone is charged with DUI, they may also face additional criminal charges, which can complicate the legal process and lead to more severe penalties. A versatile Burbank DUI lawyer must be equipped to handle these situations effectively.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving is often charged alongside a DUI, especially if the driver exhibited dangerous behavior on the road. In California, reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle “with willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” A Burbank DUI lawyer may need to argue that the accused was not driving recklessly or that their actions did not meet the legal definition of recklessness.

• Potential Penalties: Reckless driving can result in additional fines, license suspension, and possible jail time. If convicted of both DUI and reckless driving, penalties can significantly increase.

Vehicular Manslaughter

In tragic cases where a DUI results in a fatal accident, the driver may face vehicular manslaughter charges. Vehicular manslaughter can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances of the case. In such cases, a Burbank DUI lawyer will focus on the specific facts surrounding the incident, such as whether the driver’s impairment directly caused the fatality.

• Defense Strategies: A DUI lawyer may argue that external factors, such as road conditions or the behavior of the other driver, contributed to the accident, reducing the client’s culpability.

DUI with Drugs (DUID)

DUI charges are not limited to alcohol; driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) is a growing concern in Burbank. This can include prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, or illegal substances. Defending against a DUID charge often requires challenging the methods used by law enforcement to determine impairment.

• Challenges: A skilled DUI lawyer will question the accuracy of field sobriety tests and the procedures used to detect drug use, as these tests are often more subjective than those used for alcohol.

The Role of a Burbank DUI Lawyer in Defending Multiple Charges

A DUI lawyer in Burbank has the unique challenge of defending clients against multiple charges, often arising from a single incident. This requires a comprehensive understanding of criminal law, forensic science, and trial strategy.

Legal Strategies for Defending DUI Cases with Multiple Charges

A versatile DUI lawyer will employ a variety of defense strategies, depending on the circumstances of the case and the charges involved. Below are some common tactics used to fight DUI and related charges.

Challenging the Legality of the Traffic Stop

One of the first elements a DUI lawyer will investigate is the legality of the traffic stop. In many cases, DUI charges can be dismissed if the stop itself was unlawful. Police must have reasonable suspicion of illegal activity before pulling over a driver. If the lawyer can prove that the stop violated the client’s Fourth Amendment rights, the case could be thrown out entirely.

Disputing Field Sobriety Tests

Field sobriety tests (FSTs) are often used by law enforcement to establish probable cause for a DUI arrest. However, these tests are not foolproof, and a skilled Burbank DUI lawyer can challenge their reliability. Various factors, such as medical conditions, anxiety, or poor lighting conditions, can affect performance on FSTs.

Questioning Breathalyzer or Blood Test Accuracy

Breathalyzer and blood tests are critical components of most DUI cases. However, these tests can be flawed. A DUI lawyer may scrutinize the testing devices for calibration issues, improper handling, or errors in the chain of custody. If any discrepancies are found, the results could be ruled inadmissible in court.

Investigating Police Misconduct

If the arresting officers did not follow proper protocol or violated the defendant’s rights, this could form the basis of a strong defense. A Burbank DUI lawyer will carefully review body cam footage, arrest reports, and witness statements to identify any procedural errors that could result in a dismissal or reduction of charges.

Why Hiring a Versatile DUI Lawyer in Burbank Is Essential

When facing DUI charges, especially those accompanied by additional allegations like reckless driving or vehicular manslaughter, hiring a versatile and experienced Burbank DUI lawyer is critical. The complexity of these cases demands a deep understanding of the law, familiarity with local courts, and the ability to create a tailored defense strategy.

The Benefits of Local Knowledge

Burbank DUI lawyers are familiar with the local court system, judges, and prosecutors. This local insight can be invaluable in negotiating plea deals, understanding the tendencies of particular judges, and tailoring arguments for a specific courtroom audience. A lawyer who regularly works in Burbank may have established relationships that can help facilitate more favorable outcomes.

Protecting Your Future

A DUI conviction can have long-lasting consequences beyond legal penalties. It can affect your driving privileges, employment prospects, and personal relationships. By working with a Burbank DUI lawyer, individuals can improve their chances of reducing or dismissing charges, thereby minimizing the long-term impact on their lives.

Conclusion

A Burbank DUI lawyer’s versatility is crucial when defending clients against multiple charges stemming from a DUI arrest. Whether the case involves reckless driving, vehicular manslaughter, or driving under the influence of drugs, a skilled lawyer can craft a defense that addresses each charge individually while focusing on the bigger picture. The right legal strategy can make the difference between a conviction and a favorable outcome, protecting the client’s rights and future.

Hiring an experienced DUI lawyer in Burbank ensures that you have the best possible defense against complex and multifaceted charges. If you or someone you know is facing DUI charges, don’t hesitate to contact us – our Burbank DUI lawyer can fight a variety of charges.

With a law degree under his belt, Mark Scott understood very early that law communication was a relatively neglected area. He decided to help people by “translating” the language and offering information and advice in a clear, helpful, and actionable manner. For this reason, instead of finding him in court, you will most likely find his name online, where he is very active and thriving as a legal columnist. His part of making the world a better place is to make the law a less convoluted maze. He aims to make it easier for people to understand when and how to seek legal counsel, how to proceed in a significant number of legal matters, and how to find the proper resources so they can stand up for their rights.

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