March 7, 2011 - Seatbelts, Driving, and Alcohol
I learned
today that a former client of mine was recently killed in an automobile
accident. Police say that alcohol and excessive speed played
a
role in the crash.
Reports indicate that he drifted
over the center line of the highway and then rolled the car.
His car came to rest blocking traffic on the opposite side of
the
road, and was hit by another vehicle. He was killed.
A passenger in his car survived. The driver of the
other
vehicle was not injured.
The
driver, my former client, was a good person. He was
young,
with a lot going for him. His death was untimely, and I am
sure
he will be missed by his family and friends..
As a defense
attorney, I believe that every person charged with a crime deserves a
strong defense. And I fight hard to ensure that my clients'
rights are protected. But no attorney can offer you
protection
against the laws of physics. If you drink, and drive, and
roll
your car, there are consequences beyond what any judge can impose.
I
don't take this incident lightly. It is a tragedy.
But it
serves to remind me why it is so important to address alcohol or other
substance abuse issues when I am working with a client.
I
know a judge who often tells defendants in his courtroom that if they
don't address their addiction, they will end up either dead or in
prison. There is some truth in that statement.
This blog is the
work of Utah criminal defense
attorney Stephen W. Howard. It is
not intended to be legal advice, and the information contained herein
may not be applicable to your particular factual or legal situation.
If you have been accused of criminal conduct, you should
contact
an attorney as soon as possible to discuss the best way to handle your
case.

The best outcome is more likely when the right strategy is employed. Developing the best strategy can require real courtroom experience, a thorough understanding of procedural and substantive legal issues, and a determination to ensure that important constitutional and other legal rights are protected. Choosing the right attorney....
Strategy
»

Defending against a criminal prosecution in Utah is a job that has to be done right the first time. Choosing the right attorney to defend you can be the most important decision you make. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling some of the most serious felony and misdemeanor charges on the books in Utah. No matter what charges you are facing, we can help....
Experience
»

Even a "minor" misdemeanor carries the potential for jail time and significant fines. The direct penalties and collateral consequences of a felony conviction are even more severe. Understanding these consequences is critical as you make decisions relating to your case. Even in a misdemeanor case, you should not....
Consequences
»

An arrest is not a conviction. If you are facing criminal prosecution in Utah, it can feel like your world is collapsing. But there are things you can do right now that can increase your chances of a good outcome. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you evaluate the various options available to you and help develop a strategy for success....
Reasons to Hope
»