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The ABCs of Dealing With Domestic Violence

Domestic violence was a part of my family's life for years. When I made the decision to leave with my children, I had to rely on the law to provide the protection we needed. Sometimes, the system does not work as fast as we want. I soon learned that going at it alone without any guidance caused significant delays. I created this blog to help others who are seeking legal means to deal with an abusive ex. By making the right moves, it is possible to get the necessary protections in place so that you can also live a happier and healthier life.

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The ABCs of Dealing With Domestic Violence

Situations When the Police Can Charge You for DUI as a Passenger and How a Legal Advisor Can Help

by Gina Hill

Do you know that law enforcers can arrest you for DUI even if you're not operating a vehicle? Although this is uncommon, officers also charge travelers with this crime, and the consequences can be as severe as if you were behind the wheel. The punishments include monetary fines, probation, or a prison sentence. In addition, a conviction could give you a permanent criminal record, which might affect various aspects of your life. The way to avert such a scenario is to hire a DUI attorney to defend you. This article looks at instances when the police can arrest you for driving under the influence, even if you weren't the driver. 

You Switched Your Seat with a Sober Passenger

Usually, drunk drivers use various tricks to avoid arrest for driving while intoxicated. For instance, one can switch seats with a sober passenger before reaching a police stop. However, such a move may not help you to avoid incarceration. The officers might ask you to take sobriety tests if they realize the driver is not intoxicated. Positive test results may prompt the officers to arrest you for DUI. They may also charge you for drunk driving if you refuse to take a breath test. Getting legal help immediately after the police arrest you is always advisable. A lawyer can challenge irregularities during your arrest and detainment to shield you from facing charges. 

You Allowed an Intoxicated Person to Drive

The law also gives an officer the right to charge you for allowing an impaired motorist to drive. The situation could worsen if the police realize you're sober and capable of driving. They'll argue that you should have operated the vehicle to prevent an accident. Therefore, they may charge you for DUI and reckless endangerment. In such a situation, you will benefit greatly by hiring a lawyer. 

In your defense, your attorney can posit that you never knew the driver was intoxicated. That means you had no authority to prevent them from operating your vehicle. Your lawyer might also argue that you only witnessed the driver take one or two beers, which should not have impaired them. With these compelling arguments, you may receive a lesser punishment or even a dismissal of the charges.

While most DUI arrests affect drivers, you may get into trouble as a passenger. So it's advisable to seek the assistance of a DUI attorney to help you fight the charges. They will use their legal knowledge and experience to secure your freedom.

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