Spearfish Criminal Defense Blog
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...
Out-of-state offenders contribute to high SD drug-arrest ranking
South Dakota K-9 units sometimes assist law enforcement in determining if there are drugs inside a vehicle during a traffic stop. As reported by The Globe, during one such occurrence in January 2019, a K-9 assisted in the arrest of three out-of-state individuals on...
Tips to avoid a holiday DUI
As you prepare for Thanksgiving and beyond, you likely have several parties on your schedule for the holiday season. When enjoying friends and family, it can be easy to have a drink too many and end up with a charge of driving while intoxicated. Keep these tips in...
What to know about facing a DUI conviction in South Dakota
Whether you had a little too much to drink or a lot, even a first DUI offense in South Dakota can lead to a misdemeanor conviction, a suspended license, jail time and a hefty fine. For many individuals, these penalties may lead to huge hurdles when it comes to taking...
