DUI

The Nevada and California DUI laws cover a wide range of situations, making arrests a daily occurrence. If you are in this unfortunate position, you still have the opportunity to present your side of the story and argue any defenses that may be available to you. Attorney William J. Routsis has dedicated his practice to defending Nevada and California residents charged with crimes, and he has accumulated over two decades of experience. If you are facing prosecution for DUI in Reno or the surrounding communities, you may need a capable criminal defense attorney to protect your rights. While earning his impeccable reputation, Mr. Routsis has also devoted a substantial amount of his time to doing pro bono work. He believes that access to justice is a right that should be available to all, regardless of financial resources.

For people 21 and over in Nevada, it is illegal to drive or be in control of a vehicle on a road or other publicly accessed area in any of the following situations:

• While under the influence of alcohol;
• With a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or more;
• With a BAC of .08% or more within two hours of driving or being in control of a vehicle;
• While under the influence of a controlled substance;
• While under the influence of alcohol and a controlled substance; or
• While using any substance to a degree that renders the person incapable of safely driving.

DUI is generally a misdemeanor offense and will only be charged as a felony if a defendant has two previous DUI convictions or a previous felony DUI conviction, or if someone was seriously injured or killed.

When you are fighting a DUI charge, there are two legal proceedings to contend with: a criminal case and an administrative hearing. The criminal case will determine the legal outcome of your charge and any penalties. Your attorney may first attempt to resolve your case with the prosecuting attorney by negotiating reduced charges, a plea deal, or dismissal. Otherwise, your attorney may seek dismissal in front of the judge in a bench trial. The administrative hearing involves the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles, and it will determine whether or not your driver’s license will be suspended. In these administrative proceedings, you may also be represented by an attorney.

Getting arrested and charged with a DUI does not automatically result in a conviction by any means, even if your BAC was found to be over the legal limit. There are several defense strategies that may be available, depending on the facts of your case. Some of the more common defenses include a lack of probable cause for the police officer to have initially pulled you over, a lack of probable cause for the DUI arrest, an improper administration of field sobriety tests, or a faulty or unreliable use of the breathalyzer equipment, among others. It is important to discuss the circumstances of your arrest with an experienced attorney to identify the defenses that may be available to you, as well as to obtain the physical evidence involved, such as police reports and chemical test results.

Knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer William J. Routsis serves Reno residents who have been charged with DUI, domestic violence, theft offenses, drug crimes, and more. When you discuss your case with Mr. Routsis, you will receive the respect and support you deserve, no matter what your situation may be. Your rights and options under the law will be explained fully to you and evaluated by a qualified attorney. Schedule a consultation today by phone at (775) 337-2609 or online. We also represent individuals across Nevada and California, including in Carson City, South Lake Tahoe, and Quincy.