Spearfish Criminal Defense Blog
3 ways a DUI can affect motorcyclists
Summer is officially here, and if you own a motorcycle, you look forward to spending long hours on the open road. A South Dakota summer means the perfect weather to ride your bike through the Black Hills area and beyond. But if you choose to drink when you drive, you...
Penalties for South Dakota drug offenses
As a resident of South Dakota, you may know that the state has among the nation's strictest drug possession laws. Although lawmakers have proposed reforms, these changes remain in progress. Learn more about the potential legal penalties if you or a family member faces...
Marijuana-related crimes and penalties
South Dakota has strict laws against marijuana. State law reads, “No person may knowingly possess marijuana,” and legislators mean it. South Dakota does not even honor medical marijuana prescriptions from other states. If you are being questioned about any...
What are my rights at a traffic stop?
Every day, law enforcement officers pull over drivers in traffic stops in the Black Hills. Perhaps, police stop you because you ran a red light or have a broken taillight. Or maybe an officer sees you driving erratically and suspects you are driving drunk. When police...
How to fight a DUI in South Dakota
A couple of drinks can get you into trouble if you get behind the wheel. Even if your blood alcohol was below the legal limit of 0.08%, a court can convict you if it finds you were driving under the influence. A DUI conviction comes with severe penalties that have a...
South Dakota DUI penalties
South Dakota considers driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol a Class 1 misdemeanor. Offenders can receive fines, license revocation and even jail time. South Dakota is an implied consent state, which means that drivers must submit to blood alcohol testing in...
A DUI conviction could put your future plans on hold
For those who work in sales, the ability to drive is essential to your responsibilities. Unfortunately, your career could come to a grinding halt if you are convicted of a DUI. How would this affect the plans you have for your future? About the penalties The state of...
Common causes of motorcycle accidents
Motorcycle accidents are common on the U.S roads. According to the NHTSA, more than 48,000 people lost their lives between 2007 and 2016 as a result of motorcycle accidents. Unfortunately, these figures may rise in the coming years if proper safety measures are not...
If you have been drinking, be careful where you sit
Whether you live in the Sturgis area or visit regularly, you probably love the many bars, restaurants and entertainment venues. After all, few things are better than enjoying a craft beer while gazing into the Black Hills. Still, if you drink and drive, you face...
Know the signs of problem drinking
Many people enjoy alcohol socially without realizing that drinking has the potential to cause life-changing issues. For example, people with a successful career and a happy family life may not expect to receive a DUI charge after an office happy hour. Sometimes, it...
