Lafayette DUI Lawyer

Lafayette DUI Attorney

I-10 and I-90 are some of the most popular interstates in the state. Many Lafayette residents drive these roads daily for work and recreational purposes. However, traveling while intoxicated can threaten the lives of yourself and other drivers around you. Even though a DUI charge can be serious, a Lafayette DUI lawyer can steadfastly represent you.

Experienced DUI Lawyers in Lafayette, LA

At Longman Jakuback, our clients know how we fight for their rights instead of passively representing them. We aim to be as involved as possible in your DUI case. Our team can work tirelessly to fight against your charges.

DUIs vs. DWIs vs. OWIs

Many terms are used when discussing charges of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. All these terms are treated equally under Louisiana DUI laws. The official name that Louisiana gives to these types of accusations is Operating While Impaired.

These charges usually come with a license suspension, a fine, and some kind of jail time. The amounts of each depend on how many previous offenses exist and other factors related to the situation. For example, having a minor in the car during a DUI can increase the penalties.

Common DUI Defenses

Some people see their DUI charges as impossible to beat. However, in many cases, a skilled lawyer can defend against them with the right strategy. Some of the most popular defenses include:

• Issues with the traffic stop: In DUI cases, a police officer must have a valid reason to pull you over in the first place. They must also have some evidence to believe that you were intoxicated before pulling you over. If this can’t be proven, then the stop might not be considered legal.
• Field sobriety tests: These tests are a physical way for officers to evaluate your intoxication level while in public. Even so, they are not foolproof. Some people have mobility issues, which could affect their performance during a field sobriety test. Other issues, like bad weather or lighting, can also affect the results.
• Health issues: Some people have medical problems that affect how they look while driving. Some medical conditions, like severe allergies or diabetes, can mimic the appearance of someone driving under the influence.
• Breathalyzer tests: These instruments are considered important evidence in a DUI case, but they cannot always be trusted. They must be used correctly to gather accurate results. Many factors can affect the accuracy of the test, which can be proven with legal support.
• Negotiation: Even if your case can’t be dropped, it’s still possible to get a lesser sentence. Attorneys regularly negotiate with prosecutors to exchange more severe penalties, like prison time, for additional fines or community service. It’s even possible for them to lower your conviction to a lesser charge that does not look as bad on a criminal record.

In 2024, there were nine fatal alcohol-related crashes in Lafayette Parish. Driving while intoxicated leads to real physical and legal problems, which require a Lafayette DUI attorney to prevent.

Why Hire a DUI Lawyer?

Although the Internet has a lot of valuable information, it is not a replacement for an experienced attorney. A Lafayette DUI lawyer can evaluate your specific case to determine what to do next.

Many people in Lafayette depend on driving to get to work and take care of personal obligations. However, most DUI charges result in a license suspension. An attorney is an important part of a case because they can prevent your license from being suspended.

To do this, they have to set up a hearing with the DMV to argue your case. If this is not done in time, then your license is suspended, sometimes for months or even years at a time. An attorney can still help you apply for a hardship license, but that still has many restrictions.

Why Choose Us for Your Drunk Driving Defense?

Any good attorney knows that putting in the work gets you results. At Longman Jakuback, our efforts don’t go unnoticed. We have represented countless clients over the past several years, making sure they are treated fairly by the legal system, particularly in the 15th Judicial District.

FAQs About Lafayette, LA DUI Laws

Take Your Charges Seriously

In 2024, there were 155 alcohol-related crashes in Lafayette Parish that led to injuries. These statistics show that the Lafayette Police Department is serious about catching those who drive under the influence. To defend against these charges, schedule a consultation with Longman Jakuback today.