For those of you who have had enough trying to decipher the legal and scientific nuances, but are interested in following what is going on in the Scottsdale Crime lab, here is the Cliff's Notes version of the events, and reasons why this drama is so important.
What the &^%$ is going on in the Scottsdale Crime Lab?
Can I get a DUI from my Prescription Medication?
The answer is a resounding yes. When someone is charged with a DUI, they are almost always charged with two separate DUI offenses. The State uses this strategy because it increases their conviction rates; i.e., if they don't get a guilty verdict on one charge, they can still try and get you on the other. In a DUI case where the cops think you are under the influence of alcohol, most of the time a person will be charged with being impaired to operate a motor vehicle at least to the slightest degree, and also with having a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) above a certain amount, either .08, .15, or .20. In a case where it is alleged that a person is impaired by drugs, a similar thing happens. The suspect will be charged with driving while impaired to the slightest degree, as well as driving with the presence of a drug or its metabolite (waste product) in the blood.
A little late is better than never....
Rosenstein Law Group welcomes its fifth attorney, Ashley Sinclair, to the firm. We are excited to add her to the team. Ashley had previously worked at a Phoenix based criminal defense firm before making the move. She is excellent at researching and writing as well as possessing amazing trial skills. She is an asset to the firm and we are excited to have her.
Arizona Implied Consent/ Admin Per Se Law
Reading little fine print is important. Because when you signed up for your driver's license in Arizona you consented to having your blood, breath or urine sample taken and analyzed if a stopping officer has reasonable suspicion to believe you are driving under the influence. That is what is known as the implied consent law. By getting your license and driving on Arizona roads you have agreed to those terms. You have no say in which test is administered; that is completely up to the officer who stops you.
Craig Rosenstein Named a 2013 Super Lawyer
For the second time in two years, I have been named to the Southwest Super Lawyers "Rising Stars" list. It is honor to be recognized and it is honestly humbling to be in the company of what I consider to be some of Arizona's most capable and impressive lawyers. Being named a Super Lawyer Rising Star has many benefits. Most notably, it creates confidence that the countless hours of hard work and zealous advocacy are being recognized by my peers and the Judiciary. However, it also comes with a responsibility. I am thankful to be selected but am dedicated to proving myself worthy of this distinction and honor. To any fellow lawyers or judges who may be reading this blog and who voted for me, I say thank you.