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Probable Cause for Los Angeles DUI

When conducting a Los Angeles DUI stop, investigation and arrest, the law enforcement agency involved must have probable cause to believe that a driver is violating the law. Police officers are not allowed to merely stop cars on a mere whims or idle suspicions. Under the Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution, police and other law enforcement officials must be able to point to specific, articulable facts that a crime has been committed to justify an automobile stop.

Violations of the Law

The crime can be any violation of the law, not just those seemingly related to driving under the influence. For example, equipment violations such as missing or burned out taillights are proper grounds to initiate a vehicle stop, regardless of whether an officer suspects a driver has been drinking. In a typical California DUI investigation, police officers will cite offenses such as speeding and improper lane changes, all violations of the California Vehicle Code, as justifications for a traffic stop.

Exception to DUI Checkpoints in Los Angeles

In California, the one exception to this rule exists in regards to Los Angeles DUI checkpoints. Because these are considered to be administrative procedures and not criminal investigations, police agencies are allowed to rely on checkpoints to justify stopping otherwise lawful drivers. However, these checkpoints must adhere to very specific guidelines discussed in detail in the article on checkpoints.

Once a police officer has stopped a vehicle, that officer must further be able to articulate specific facts supporting a belief that the driver is under the influence of alcohol or another intoxicating substance. This can be based on the driver's appearance, odor and demeanor, the answer to questions posed by the officer, performance on field sobriety tests, and results of a preliminary alcohol screening (PAS) device.

A defendant facing charges of DUI under California Vehicle Code 23152(a) or California Vehicle Code 23152(b) can challenge the probable cause of the stop, investigation and/or arrest by requesting a suppression hearing pursuant to California Penal Code Section 1538.5. At this hearing, the defendant is given a chance to question and cross-examine the arresting officer on his or her grounds for probable cause.

Because probable cause determinations involve a very intricate area of the law, it is imperative that you have a skilled and knowledgeable DUI attorney fighting on your behalf. Criminal Defense Attorney Michael Kraut is a former deputy district attorney who is extremely well-versed in challenging probable cause determinations on behalf of his clients. He has won many probable cause hearings including a well-known one in which he was retained after two other attorneys were fired. After the probable cause hearing all charges were dismissed on a third time DUI.

For more information about the DUI and Probable Cause, and to schedule your free consultation, contact Michael Kraut at the Kraut Criminal & DUI Lawyers. Mr. Kraut can be reached 24/7 at 888-334-6344 or 323-464-6453.


Client Reviews
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Michael Kraut is outstanding! He genuinely cared about my case and instructed my mom and I throughout the entire process. He was very clear on what he needed in order to receive the best results. He kept us updated until the end. I thank him so much for getting my charges rejected. I highly recommend him to anyone with legal needs! Shaquan
★★★★★
I contacted Michael with concern for my personal and business reputation. He was very reassuring and confident the entire time. After about 3 weeks it was determined that no charges were being filed by any agency and I was in the clear of any investigation. One thing that is amazing is just how FAST Michael is at replying to phone calls, texts, and even emails! We are talking under 30 minutes in most cases. That is unheard of for most attorneys! Michael is incredible and not your typical run of the mill attorney. For best results hire him if you feel like you might be under investigation or could face charges. Even if you know you are innocent it is best to take care of the smoke before it becomes a fire. Brad
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Michael Kraut is-hands down-the best criminal defense attorney and I can't begin to thank him for all that he did for me and my family. I reached out to him in the middle of the night and less than a couple hours later, he had gotten back to me and scheduled a meeting. He's a no-nonsense attorney who knows how to get the job done! From the second we retained him, I had peace of mind in knowing that we were in the best hands possible. If Michael Kraut couldn't get it done, I knew that it couldn't be done at all. You can't put a price tag on your freedom. He was worth every single penny. Lida
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Michael Kraut is an outstanding attorney. He was extremely professional, and straightforward, yet sensitive with my case. I am confident I made the right choice by hiring Michael. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking a truly experienced lawyer. Daniel
★★★★★
Michael Kraut - I cannot thank you enough for all that you did for ​my son. When I came to you I read that you used to be a district attorney but I never knew how much that meant until I watch you in court. I knew it took 3 months but the final day when I heard the judge say that all charges were dismissed it was all worth it! I will always be grateful for all that you did for us. A.N.
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