The following are areas of DWI law that I actively pursue and defend:
All Types of Defenses, Including 3rd and 4th Offenses:
  • DWI laws are constantly changing due to the stringent lobbying in the Louisiana Legislature. As a result of these changes, I am constantly updating my knowledge in order to protect my client’s best interest. A 1st or 2nd DWI is a misdemeanor. A 3rd or 4th DWI is a felony.

    In order for the state to get a conviction on a 2nd, 3rd or 4th DWI, it has the burden of proving that the prior convictions were done appropriately under Louisiana Law. If these prior convictions were not proper, then the state can not use them for enhancement purposes on the new charge. Proper motions and hearings are absolutely necessary to ensure that your constitutional rights are protected.

    I take every measure to assure that the state meets its burden.

Administrative Hearings:
  • Louisiana law allows the filing for an administrative hearing within 15 days of your original arrest. We subpoena the arresting police officers and question them under oath as it relates to the initial stop and procedures followed thereafter. I attempt to show an unreasonable search and seizure and/or lack of proper procedure in an attempt to reinstate your driving privileges.

    This hearing also allows me to review the police report prior to the court hearing. I feel this is a necessary step in properly representing all DWI arrests.

Probable Cause Hearing:
  • A police officer must have probable cause under Louisiana law to pull you over. The state has the burden of showing that there was in fact probable case for the stop. By filing appropriate motions and requesting a hearing, I am able to question the arresting officer as it relates to the initial stop.

    If it can be shown that probable cause did not exist, then the subsequent DWI arrest would be viewed by the court as “fruit of the poisonous tree,” thus be dismissed. This detailed representation is essential in properly defending all DWI charges.

Civil Forfeiture:
  • Civil Forfeiture in a criminal arrest are becoming more and more an issue after the arrest. It could be your vehicle, money, home and/or any other property which the State will allege is related to the criminal arrest. Proper pleadings and petitions are required to protect your best interest in all civil forfeiture cases. We are fluent with these procedures and will explain in detail at your consultation.