| "Wet Reckless" Convictions in DUI/DWI Cases |
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| In some states, motorists who have been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) may be able to plea bargain the charge down to a wet reckless charge. A wet reckless charge is considered a lesser charge than a DUI or DWI. In addition, a wet reckless charge usually carries a sentence of probation rather than jail time, and the fines involved are usually lower. Although the name of the offense is "wet reckless," there is no requirement that there is any reckless driving. More... |
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| Driving on a Revoked or Suspended License |
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| A charge of driving with a suspended or revoked driver's license is a serious charge. It is against the law to drive when your driver's license is suspended or revoked. It is also against the law to drive if you do not have a license and your right to apply for one has been suspended or revoked. More... |
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| Elements of Criminal Offense of DUI Manslaughter |
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| If a driver's act of drunk driving results in the death of another person, the driver will be charged with some form of homicide. Some states, however, treat the offense as a form of aggravated drunk driving, variously described as, inter alia, "vehicular manslaughter", "manslaughter with a vehicle," "negligent homicide manslaughter," or "DUI manslaughter." More... |
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| Use of Prior Convictions/Prior Misconduct at DUI/DWI Trials |
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| The statutes of almost all states provide for an increased penalty against a person convicted of a second or subsequent charge of drunk driving, with additional penalties ranging from higher fines to mandatory imprisonment and mandatory suspension of a person's driver's license. Since prior convictions are elements of the enhanced offense, they must be charged and proven by the prosecution. More... |
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| Criminal Offense of Failing to Provide Proof of a Vehicle's Inspection |
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| Many states require a motorist to obtain a vehicle inspection before the vehicle can be titled in the state. The inspections in most states consist of two primary parts. The first part of the inspection is a safety inspection, which covers such items as tires, brakes, and windows. The second part of the inspection is an exhaust emissions inspection, which checks the vehicle's exhaust and tests the fuel system for leaks. More... |
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