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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

What Your Legal Advisor Wants You To Know About OVI Charges

by Gina Hill

The law prescribes tough penalties for every motorist that breaks traffic laws. That includes motorists arrested for operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs (OVI). Therefore, if traffic officers stop you on suspicion of engaging in this traffic violation, you'll need to clear your name to evade the harsh penalties therein. Consulting a lawyer is paramount when faced with such a situation. 

Your OVI lawyer will advise you on the dos and don'ts, enabling you to avoid issues that could worsen your situation. This article looks are essential information you should know when facing OVI charges.

You Have a Right to Reject the Intoxication Tests 

The law enforcers have a legal right to conduct intoxication tests on a motorist who demonstrates impaired driving. However, they must conduct the tests within the law requirements. For instance, an arresting officer shouldn't force you to undertake a test. That means you can refuse to undertake a standardized field sobriety test even if the law enforcers threaten to take action against you. You could make a mistake while taking the test that might insinuate you are intoxicated even if you are not. That is because some tests are hard to follow and perform, and hence difficult to pass even if you are not impaired.

The Police Should Not Search Your Vehicle without a Warrant

If the arresting officers don't find any evidence through sobriety tests, they might want to search your vehicle. They will do so to find evidence to use in court. Unless you give the officers consent to search your vehicle, they should only do so with a warrant. But your attorney might advise you not to allow the police to search your car since they may find something that could link you to an OVI offense. It's best to consult your lawyer before letting the officers frisk you or search the car. 

You Can Decide Not to Answer some or All the Questions

Usually, the officers ask the traffic offenders many questions to build a strong case against them. Luckily, the law protects you against harassment or intimidation during interrogation. You can use your right to silence by choosing not to answer some or all the questions. It is advisable to answer the questions in the presence of your lawyer.

OVI charges carry very stiff penalties. Therefore, you may want to explore all avenues to minimize your charges or get an acquittal or a lenient judgment. Your OVI attorney will advise you on the tips above to avoid costly mistakes that could make you get maximum penalties.

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