No Louisiana resident envisions being convicted of a crime. However, if you are a parent in this situation, there are times when your right to child custody might be impacted. Convictions that prevent custody Certain criminal convictions can prevent a parent from...
Criminal Defense
U.S. Supreme Court could hear arguments in K-9 air sniff case
Police officers in Louisiana and around the country are usually required to obtain search warrants before looking inside vehicles that they have pulled over, but exceptions are made when they have probable cause to believe that a crime is being committed or has been...
Drunk driving penalties for pilots in Louisiana
The crime of driving while under the influence is treated very seriously in the state of Louisiana. However, under certain circumstances, those who are convicted may face extra penalties. This is true when it comes to pilots. If you are a pilot facing DUI charges in...
Louisiana’s implied consent law
The penalties for drunk driving can be harsh in Louisiana, which is why some drivers taken into custody on DUI charges in the Pelican State refuse to submit to chemical testing. Suspected drunk drivers refuse to take breath tests or provide blood samples because they...
Can I go to college if I have a felony?
Many Louisiana residents who have a felony on their records want to turn their lives around in order to become productive members of society. Unfortunately, that’s often difficult to do without a college degree. One of the most frequently asked questions among felons...
How much does a DUI really cost?
When Louisiana residents make the decision to drive under the influence, they put themselves and others in harm’s way. However, they may not realize that they also face a long list of potential financial issues. There are several short-term and long-term costs...
Reliability of roadside drug testing in Louisiana
Roadside drug testing has become increasingly common in Louisiana, with police officers using the technology in an attempt to detect drug-impaired drivers. These drug tests involve taking a sample of saliva, urine, or blood from a driver and testing it for the...
The danger of teenagers and impaired driving in Louisiana
Teenagers comprise a significant amount of the more than 3 million licensed drivers in Louisiana. Teenagers are at high risk for impaired driving, even if they are generally safe behind the wheel. Driving while impaired can cause devastating accidents, serious...
When vehicle searches are permitted
Most drunk driving arrests in Louisiana are made after police officers pull vehicles over for some sort of motor vehicle violation. Suspected drunk drivers are usually taken into custody after failing a breath test, which is a form of warrantless search. Drivers in...
Clearing the confusion between a DUI and a DWI
A Louisiana driver who opts to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol puts themselves and others at risk. They also open themselves up for legal consequences, including jail time, suspended licenses, and penalties. What's the difference...