Our Newsletter
CHRISTINA GRADUATES
I am very proud to announce that my assistant, Christina Agosta, has graduated from LSU’s Paralegal School and is officially a paralegal. Please join me in congratulating Christina when you see her.
RECORD VERDICT
In June, 2009, Kim Hood and I had a jury trial representing two young girls who had been molested by their neighbor over a three year period. After the four day trial, the jury came back and awarded the girls $3.86 million, including $3 million in punitive damages. It is one of the largest jury awards of its kind in East Baton Rouge Parish history. If your family or friends have suffered sexual assault or molestation, they may think no one will believe them or that they have no remedy. Turn to us. There is no charge for the consultation and we will counsel you on your options, including filing criminal charges or filing a civil lawsuit.
2009 CHANGES IN DWI LAW
The Louisiana State Legislature adopted new DUI laws in its 2009 legislative meetings. Signed into law by Governor Jindal on July 1, 2009, the state is adopting more severe penalties for driving with a suspended license and mandatory license suspensions for DWIs.
ACT 236 addresses the ability for law enforcement officers to arrest individuals driving with a suspended license for DWI or vehicular manslaughter. Previously, if a person was caught driving with a suspended license, they were ticketed and released. Without extenuating circumstances, there was not more punishment other than this ticket.
The new ACT provides for an arrest with 15 days to 6 months in jail. This law only applies if the license suspension was the result of an alcohol-related event.
ACT 288 increase the suspension assessed for drivers who refuse chemical testing after a DWI arrest. A person who refuses a test will now have a mandatory suspension of one year. If a test is refused on a second offense, the mandatory suspension is 2 years. This is an increase of the initial 180 day and 545 day suspension period for first and second refusals.
Furthermore, if there is fatality or serious injury resulting from a DWI accident, the state of Louisiana will not allow a person to apply for a hardship license.
DWI is a serious business. Every year, the penalties are becoming harsher. Just as you would not let your primary care physician perform surgery on you, don’t trust your liberty to a lawyer who does not concentrate his practice on DWI defense.
Over the last eleven years, we have a built a strong record of success in DWI defense. If you find yourself under arrest for DWI, be polite, refuse all tests, and ask for your lawyer. You have the right to remain silent. Do so. Then call me immediately.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2009: 8th ANNUAL ‘LONG NITE’ CHRISTMAS PARTY AT CLICKS BILLIARDS. Put it down on your calendar. Hope to see all of you there.