If you are pulled over by the police for suspicion of a Virginia DUI, you will likely be asked a series of questions. Many of these police inquiries are designed to help determine whether you are driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Proposed Virginia DUI Law
There may soon be a new step in a Virginia DUI stop in which the officer may be required to ask you where you consumed your last alcoholic beverage.
The information obtained from a suspect would be passed on to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board, which has the power to discipline businesses who flout Virginia's alcohol laws. Serving an individual who is "buzzed" is a misdemeanor under state law.
This legislation was introduced by Republican Delegate John O'Bannon of Henrico. The bill unanimously passed the state Senate on March 1 with an amendment, and then passed the state House by a 93-4 margin 2 days later. The bill now goes before Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell.
No Penalties For Refusal To Answer
However, the new legislation does not require any individual who is asked about the location of their last drink to answer the question. Nor does the law bestow a penalty of any kind upon those who refuse to provide an answer. So, if you are being charged with driving under the influence in Virginia, you do not have to implicate the private homeowner or public establishment where you consumed your last drink.
Browse our library to learn more about what to do when you are pulled over by police who suspect you of driving under the influence.
In the face of this tremendously stacked deck, you get to pick one person to be on your side - your lawyer. This decision of who will be your lawyer will be one of the most important decisions you make in your life. Bob Battle relishes and thrives in his role of "going to battle" for the legal underdog.
If you have been arrested for DUI in Virginia, there is no time to waste! Contact Virginia DUI Lawyer Bob Battle to schedule your legal consultation today - 804-673-5600.
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