| Warrantless Inventory Searches of Impounded Vehicles |
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| Under the Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution, every search or seizure by a government agent must be reasonable. In general, searches and seizures are unreasonable and invalid unless based on probable cause and executed pursuant to a warrant. However, certain kinds of searches and seizures are valid as exceptions to the probable cause and warrant requirements. One such exception is an inventory search of an impounded vehicle. Court have upheld inventory searches of vehicles lawfully in police custody, including searches of the passenger compartment, glove compartment, trunk, engine compartments, and any containers in the vehicle. More... |
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| Elements of DUI/DWI Offenses Involving Operation of a Boat |
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| All states have BUI laws making it unlawful to operate any vessel while under the influence of alcoholic drugs, certain controlled substances, and drugs. On navigable waters of the United States, federal law provides for a civil fine of not more than $ 5,000 for any person operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol or a dangerous drug. Alternatively, the boater may be charged with a class A misdemeanor. More... |
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| Criminal Offense of Failure to Use/Improper Use of Turn Signals, Headlights, and Emergency Flashers |
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| In the exercise of its police power, a state may establish minimum equipment and usage standards for lighting equipment of motor vehicles, including headlamps, rear lighting, turn signals, and hazard warning lights. More... |
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| Defendant's Right to a Jury Trial in DUI/DWI Cases |
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| A defendant who has been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) does not necessarily have a right to a jury trial. Whether a defendant has the right to a jury trial will depend upon the state. More... |
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| Penalties for DUI Manslaughter |
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| Manslaughter is the unlawful killing of another human being, but not done with intent or malice. In response to the increasing number of homicides caused by drunk drivers, some states have created a distinct offense for deaths caused by drunk driving. These are commonly referred to as, inter alia, "vehicular manslaughter", "manslaughter with a vehicle," "negligent homicide manslaughter," or "DUI manslaughter." More... |
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