Criminal Law
When a person is accused of committing a crime – an act or omission in violation of a public law that forbids or commands such act – they are prosecuted by the government in a court of law. Persons convicted of a criminal offense may be incarcerated, fined or both. While there are some common law crimes, most crimes in the United States are established by local, state and federal governments, and criminal laws vary from state to state.
Criminal law includes all felony and misdemeanor charges in all state and Federal courts. It includes those charged with crimes of the person (wounding offenses, robbery, rape, etc.), property crimes (burglary, larceny, internet connected offenses, etc.) and drug related crimes (possession or distribution of marijuana or controlled substance, manufacturing of controlled substance, etc.).
There are four theories of criminal justice – punishment, deterrence, incapacitation and rehabilitation – and it is believed that by imposing sanctions for the crime, society can achieve justice and a peaceable social order.
Traffic and DUI Law
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a serious infraction with complex consequences for drivers, victims and the general population. If you have been accused of drunk driving and are facing a DUI charge, you may face:
- Loss of driving privileges
- Vehicle impoundment
- Fines
- House arrest
- Local incarceration
- Prison time
Hiring a knowledgeable and experienced DUI lawyer is your best decision and should be one of the first things you do. The Law Offices of Ritenour Paice Mougin-Boal & Wexton are familiar with the intricacies and nuances involved with DUI offenses.
DUI Law includes cases such as Driving While Intoxicated/Driving Under the Influence (DWI/DUI) of alcohol or drugs, reckless or improper driving, driving with a suspended or revoked operator’s license, hit and run, eluding the police, speeding, and all types of traffic accident cases. Other offenses include failure to obey a highway sign, failure to obey a traffic signal (“running” a red light or stop sign), failure to wear a seat belt, or registration and titling omissions.