How to choose a lawyer for a drink driving caseStephen Oldham
I will help you to answer two questions:
What are the different types of lawyer?
Where can I find information to help me choose?
This guide is for you if you have been:
Arrested for drink driving and have to return to a police station on bail
Charged with driving with excess alcohol and given bail to go to a Magistrates’ Court
Received a postal requisition to attend a Magistrates’ Court for driving with excess alcohol
Convicted and sentenced by a Magistrates’ Court and want to appeal to the Crown Court
How to choose a lawyer for a drink driving caseStephen Oldham
I will help you to answer two questions:
What are the different types of lawyer?
Where can I find information to help me choose?
This guide is for you if you have been:
Arrested for drink driving and have to return to a police station on bail
Charged with driving with excess alcohol and given bail to go to a Magistrates’ Court
Received a postal requisition to attend a Magistrates’ Court for driving with excess alcohol
Convicted and sentenced by a Magistrates’ Court and want to appeal to the Crown Court
Kegler Brown and the Center for Operational Excellence at The Ohio State University presented "Legal Common Sense: Tips + Trends for the Professional Woman" on Thursday, January 16.
Attorneys Rasheeda Khan, Loriann Fuhrer, Vinita Bahri-Mehra and Stephanie Union discussed the following: employment and social media; doing business internationally; information on Ohio's OVI laws; and balancing work and personal life.
I remember the one night I was meeting up with some friends to go see a new movie that just came out. I was supposed to be at the movie theater by 8:30, so that I could get a ticket for the 9:00 PM showing. I however overslept and was running late. While I was driving to the theater, I made the decision to speed. Within a couple minutes I passed a cop. The officer quickly pulled me over. I then spent the next 30 minutes telling the officer why I was speeding while he was looking at my license and registration. The officer then told me that I would receive a ticket for speeding. After everything was done, and I was free to drive off I had already missed the first half of the movie.
While the cost of a lawyer is now a high economic value, is to remain in the courtroom is not an option, because if it does not adequately protect able, a step in the direction of the prison. For the
This slide share presentation is to show my research on the BBFC and classification ratings. I have also included what rating I am giving my thriller film opening.
Hoon laws were introduced in Western Australia because of community concerns over organised street drag racing and hooning. Offences include reckless driving, and causing excessive noise or smoke. Penalties vary considerably depending upon the type and frequency of the offending behaviour.
Mr. Bloom started Bloom Legal LLC in 2004. Bloom Legal handles all aspects of criminal and personal injury law in Louisiana. Seth Bloom is committed to providing quality legal services to his clients, whether they live locally or are visiting the New Orleans area. Contact Bloom Legal today to learn more about Seth J. Bloom and the client services offered by Bloom Legal.
This year's seminar discussed the following valuable and timely topics: importance of employee documentation; complying with pregnancy regulations in the workplace; a continuation of the discussion regarding the Affordable Care Act by special guest Emily Adams from USI Insurance; and the ever-growing issues companies face with telecommuting. Full agenda below.
Moderator; Larry Feheley
8:00 a.m. Registration, breakfast + networking
8:30 a.m. Case Law + Legislative Update; Larry Feheley
9:00 a.m. Pregnancy in the Workplace; Kailee Goold
Pregnant employees are protected under a variety of employment laws, including the PDA, ADA, FMLA and FLSA. Kailee will explain what employers need to know about these laws and provide advice on how to prevent claims from arising.
9:45 a.m. The Dos + Don'ts of Documentation; Jeffrey C. Miller
Documentation can be key if the need to discipline an employee occurs. Jeff will provide practical and legal advice regarding creating and maintaining accurate, sufficient and consistent documentation that can aid in making fair employment decisions and, if necessary, defending those employment decisions in court.
10:45 a.m. Health Care Strategy in a Post-ACA World; Emily Adams
Emily Adams, employee benefits consultant at USI Insurance Services, will provide advice on various ways employers can handle health care costs while maintaining compliance with the Affordable Care Act.
11:30 a.m. Telecommuting at Work: Who, What, + How; Brendan Feheley
Telecommuting is increasingly becoming a part of the American work culture and can make it difficult for employers to manage and decipher what is considered working time. Brendan will examine this issue and offer processes and solutions companies should adopt to streamline policies on telecommuting.
Let’s face the truth. An automobile accident can destroy or change your life forever. If the debilitating injuries you have suffered weren’t enough, there is always the fight over insurance claims that make things harder
2Class Handout for James Hittman” Hitt LectureStaying Safe .docxrhetttrevannion
2
Class Handout for James “Hittman” Hitt Lecture
Staying Safe in Law Enforcement Encounters
Note from Professor Charli: In light of the many issues covered by the media surrounding stops by law enforcement, particularly among minorities, I thought it might be a good idea to have this discussion in class. James Hitt is a retired law enforcement officer who spent many years in the field interacting with the public. His tips and suggestions just might save you time and trouble when you are stopped in a vehicle or otherwise detained by law enforcement. Please remember that an officer doesn’t know who you are and may also be fearful for his or her own life as well. We are all only human. I am not making excuses or judgments in either direction, rather I am trying to help keep you safe.
As we watch the Sandra Bland Documentary observe how quickly her situation escalated. At one point you can hear her say “I can’t believe a lane change came to this” or words to that effect. This is exactly why I want you to hear what James Hitt has to say. You can be absolutely right (as I believe Sandra Bland may well have been) but what you say and do is critical if you find yourself in this situation. Play it safe. Being right is never worth your safety, although I realize sometimes you just can’t change the outcome. (Tamir Rice, Phillip Castillo, Trayvon Martin and others)
First: Get into a good habit of checking over your vehicle regularly. Check lights, blinkers, tires and windshield wipers for any deficiencies and keep them in good working order. This is something you should do at least weekly. Before you go on a road trip check the oil and make sure you have plenty of gas too. Plan your trip out and make sure that you have planned for rest stops. Do not drive when you are fatigued or overtired. This is a recipe for trouble. Do not engage in road rage interactions. You have no way of knowing if the other individual is carrying a firearm, is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or is just plain dangerous.
Tip! That little lever on the left side of the column underneath the steering wheel, you know the one that treats your blinkers on for right and left turns? How about using it? If you need to make that lane change be sure to give plenty of notice to the vehicles around you and allow enough space to change lanes without endangering yourself or anyone else on the road.
Tip! Unsafe lane changes and following too close are the leading causes of starting a road rage incident! You cannot control the people around you, but you can control how you react and behave on the road.
During a Traffic Stop: During a daytime stop please ensure you are wearing your seatbelt. Don’t be caught texting or talking on your cell phone unless it is hands-free. If the officer activates his/her emergency lights, turn on your right blinker and carefully pull over to the right at your earliest safe opportunity. Turn your vehicle off and wait on the right shoulder. Keep your han.
Kegler Brown and the Center for Operational Excellence at The Ohio State University presented "Legal Common Sense: Tips + Trends for the Professional Woman" on Thursday, January 16.
Attorneys Rasheeda Khan, Loriann Fuhrer, Vinita Bahri-Mehra and Stephanie Union discussed the following: employment and social media; doing business internationally; information on Ohio's OVI laws; and balancing work and personal life.
I remember the one night I was meeting up with some friends to go see a new movie that just came out. I was supposed to be at the movie theater by 8:30, so that I could get a ticket for the 9:00 PM showing. I however overslept and was running late. While I was driving to the theater, I made the decision to speed. Within a couple minutes I passed a cop. The officer quickly pulled me over. I then spent the next 30 minutes telling the officer why I was speeding while he was looking at my license and registration. The officer then told me that I would receive a ticket for speeding. After everything was done, and I was free to drive off I had already missed the first half of the movie.
While the cost of a lawyer is now a high economic value, is to remain in the courtroom is not an option, because if it does not adequately protect able, a step in the direction of the prison. For the
This slide share presentation is to show my research on the BBFC and classification ratings. I have also included what rating I am giving my thriller film opening.
Hoon laws were introduced in Western Australia because of community concerns over organised street drag racing and hooning. Offences include reckless driving, and causing excessive noise or smoke. Penalties vary considerably depending upon the type and frequency of the offending behaviour.
Mr. Bloom started Bloom Legal LLC in 2004. Bloom Legal handles all aspects of criminal and personal injury law in Louisiana. Seth Bloom is committed to providing quality legal services to his clients, whether they live locally or are visiting the New Orleans area. Contact Bloom Legal today to learn more about Seth J. Bloom and the client services offered by Bloom Legal.
This year's seminar discussed the following valuable and timely topics: importance of employee documentation; complying with pregnancy regulations in the workplace; a continuation of the discussion regarding the Affordable Care Act by special guest Emily Adams from USI Insurance; and the ever-growing issues companies face with telecommuting. Full agenda below.
Moderator; Larry Feheley
8:00 a.m. Registration, breakfast + networking
8:30 a.m. Case Law + Legislative Update; Larry Feheley
9:00 a.m. Pregnancy in the Workplace; Kailee Goold
Pregnant employees are protected under a variety of employment laws, including the PDA, ADA, FMLA and FLSA. Kailee will explain what employers need to know about these laws and provide advice on how to prevent claims from arising.
9:45 a.m. The Dos + Don'ts of Documentation; Jeffrey C. Miller
Documentation can be key if the need to discipline an employee occurs. Jeff will provide practical and legal advice regarding creating and maintaining accurate, sufficient and consistent documentation that can aid in making fair employment decisions and, if necessary, defending those employment decisions in court.
10:45 a.m. Health Care Strategy in a Post-ACA World; Emily Adams
Emily Adams, employee benefits consultant at USI Insurance Services, will provide advice on various ways employers can handle health care costs while maintaining compliance with the Affordable Care Act.
11:30 a.m. Telecommuting at Work: Who, What, + How; Brendan Feheley
Telecommuting is increasingly becoming a part of the American work culture and can make it difficult for employers to manage and decipher what is considered working time. Brendan will examine this issue and offer processes and solutions companies should adopt to streamline policies on telecommuting.
Let’s face the truth. An automobile accident can destroy or change your life forever. If the debilitating injuries you have suffered weren’t enough, there is always the fight over insurance claims that make things harder
2Class Handout for James Hittman” Hitt LectureStaying Safe .docxrhetttrevannion
2
Class Handout for James “Hittman” Hitt Lecture
Staying Safe in Law Enforcement Encounters
Note from Professor Charli: In light of the many issues covered by the media surrounding stops by law enforcement, particularly among minorities, I thought it might be a good idea to have this discussion in class. James Hitt is a retired law enforcement officer who spent many years in the field interacting with the public. His tips and suggestions just might save you time and trouble when you are stopped in a vehicle or otherwise detained by law enforcement. Please remember that an officer doesn’t know who you are and may also be fearful for his or her own life as well. We are all only human. I am not making excuses or judgments in either direction, rather I am trying to help keep you safe.
As we watch the Sandra Bland Documentary observe how quickly her situation escalated. At one point you can hear her say “I can’t believe a lane change came to this” or words to that effect. This is exactly why I want you to hear what James Hitt has to say. You can be absolutely right (as I believe Sandra Bland may well have been) but what you say and do is critical if you find yourself in this situation. Play it safe. Being right is never worth your safety, although I realize sometimes you just can’t change the outcome. (Tamir Rice, Phillip Castillo, Trayvon Martin and others)
First: Get into a good habit of checking over your vehicle regularly. Check lights, blinkers, tires and windshield wipers for any deficiencies and keep them in good working order. This is something you should do at least weekly. Before you go on a road trip check the oil and make sure you have plenty of gas too. Plan your trip out and make sure that you have planned for rest stops. Do not drive when you are fatigued or overtired. This is a recipe for trouble. Do not engage in road rage interactions. You have no way of knowing if the other individual is carrying a firearm, is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or is just plain dangerous.
Tip! That little lever on the left side of the column underneath the steering wheel, you know the one that treats your blinkers on for right and left turns? How about using it? If you need to make that lane change be sure to give plenty of notice to the vehicles around you and allow enough space to change lanes without endangering yourself or anyone else on the road.
Tip! Unsafe lane changes and following too close are the leading causes of starting a road rage incident! You cannot control the people around you, but you can control how you react and behave on the road.
During a Traffic Stop: During a daytime stop please ensure you are wearing your seatbelt. Don’t be caught texting or talking on your cell phone unless it is hands-free. If the officer activates his/her emergency lights, turn on your right blinker and carefully pull over to the right at your earliest safe opportunity. Turn your vehicle off and wait on the right shoulder. Keep your han.
The Ford Law Firm is a Georgia criminal defense law firm located in Alpharetta and serving the metropolitan Atlanta area, as well as representing clients throughout the state of Georgia.
Portland DUI Attorney Andy Green gives some responses to common questions he gets asked as a criminal defense lawyer. He covers questions about DUI, DUII Diversion, domestic violence, misdemeanor vs felony, and the criminal court process. Visit http://www.andygreenlaw.com for more information and to schedule a free initial consultation.
The responses are geared toward an Oregon audience and are not to be taken as legal advice or counsel.
Due to variations in plan benefits and membership fees as well as other regulatory requirements, this presentation is only to be used in Washington. (updated 09/16/09)
Wa. State Pre-Paid Legal Services, Inc. PresentationBlake_Andrews
Due to variations in plan benefits and membership fees as well as other regulatory requirements, this presentation is only to be used in Washington. (updated 09/16/09
Okay so you've been arrested for DUI. Taken down to the jail, searched for drugs and contraband, and weapons and stripped of all your valuables.
Use this guide to to navigate the tricky legal waters and protect your rights.
A quick overview of the PrePaid Legal plan and the business opportunity. You can be a member without being an associate. The law provider firm in Ontario is Mills and Mills based in Toronto.
Dui in Illinois: What Is Impaired Driving?Joe Pioletti
Impaired driving occurs when an individual operates a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol that impair the individual’s ability to operate the vehicle in a safe manner.
Due to the variations in plan benefits and membership fees as well as other regulatory requirements, this presentation is to be used only in New Jersey. (updated 09/16/09)
The Detroit drunk driving lawyers at Buckfire & Buckfire PC offer a complete guide to motor vehicle accidents involving intoxicated motorists in Michigan. More information: https://buckfirelaw.com/case-types/car-accidents/drunk-driving/
Due to the variations in plan benefits and membership fees as well as other regulatory requirements, this presentation is to be used only in Canada. (updated 9/24/09)
Welcome to TechSoup New Member Orientation and Q&A (May 2024).pdfTechSoup
In this webinar you will learn how your organization can access TechSoup's wide variety of product discount and donation programs. From hardware to software, we'll give you a tour of the tools available to help your nonprofit with productivity, collaboration, financial management, donor tracking, security, and more.
How to Make a Field invisible in Odoo 17Celine George
It is possible to hide or invisible some fields in odoo. Commonly using “invisible” attribute in the field definition to invisible the fields. This slide will show how to make a field invisible in odoo 17.
Operation “Blue Star” is the only event in the history of Independent India where the state went into war with its own people. Even after about 40 years it is not clear if it was culmination of states anger over people of the region, a political game of power or start of dictatorial chapter in the democratic setup.
The people of Punjab felt alienated from main stream due to denial of their just demands during a long democratic struggle since independence. As it happen all over the word, it led to militant struggle with great loss of lives of military, police and civilian personnel. Killing of Indira Gandhi and massacre of innocent Sikhs in Delhi and other India cities was also associated with this movement.
June 3, 2024 Anti-Semitism Letter Sent to MIT President Kornbluth and MIT Cor...Levi Shapiro
Letter from the Congress of the United States regarding Anti-Semitism sent June 3rd to MIT President Sally Kornbluth, MIT Corp Chair, Mark Gorenberg
Dear Dr. Kornbluth and Mr. Gorenberg,
The US House of Representatives is deeply concerned by ongoing and pervasive acts of antisemitic
harassment and intimidation at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Failing to act decisively to ensure a safe learning environment for all students would be a grave dereliction of your responsibilities as President of MIT and Chair of the MIT Corporation.
This Congress will not stand idly by and allow an environment hostile to Jewish students to persist. The House believes that your institution is in violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, and the inability or
unwillingness to rectify this violation through action requires accountability.
Postsecondary education is a unique opportunity for students to learn and have their ideas and beliefs challenged. However, universities receiving hundreds of millions of federal funds annually have denied
students that opportunity and have been hijacked to become venues for the promotion of terrorism, antisemitic harassment and intimidation, unlawful encampments, and in some cases, assaults and riots.
The House of Representatives will not countenance the use of federal funds to indoctrinate students into hateful, antisemitic, anti-American supporters of terrorism. Investigations into campus antisemitism by the Committee on Education and the Workforce and the Committee on Ways and Means have been expanded into a Congress-wide probe across all relevant jurisdictions to address this national crisis. The undersigned Committees will conduct oversight into the use of federal funds at MIT and its learning environment under authorities granted to each Committee.
• The Committee on Education and the Workforce has been investigating your institution since December 7, 2023. The Committee has broad jurisdiction over postsecondary education, including its compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, campus safety concerns over disruptions to the learning environment, and the awarding of federal student aid under the Higher Education Act.
• The Committee on Oversight and Accountability is investigating the sources of funding and other support flowing to groups espousing pro-Hamas propaganda and engaged in antisemitic harassment and intimidation of students. The Committee on Oversight and Accountability is the principal oversight committee of the US House of Representatives and has broad authority to investigate “any matter” at “any time” under House Rule X.
• The Committee on Ways and Means has been investigating several universities since November 15, 2023, when the Committee held a hearing entitled From Ivory Towers to Dark Corners: Investigating the Nexus Between Antisemitism, Tax-Exempt Universities, and Terror Financing. The Committee followed the hearing with letters to those institutions on January 10, 202
Introduction to AI for Nonprofits with Tapp NetworkTechSoup
Dive into the world of AI! Experts Jon Hill and Tareq Monaur will guide you through AI's role in enhancing nonprofit websites and basic marketing strategies, making it easy to understand and apply.
Macroeconomics- Movie Location
This will be used as part of your Personal Professional Portfolio once graded.
Objective:
Prepare a presentation or a paper using research, basic comparative analysis, data organization and application of economic information. You will make an informed assessment of an economic climate outside of the United States to accomplish an entertainment industry objective.
2. Introduction to U.S. Law
The following slides will introduce students to the basics of the U.S.
Legal system. Understanding the basics of the legal systems will help
students to understand their rights while in the U.S., as well as their
responsibilities in being law abiding citizens.
• Identify your rights while living in the U.S.
• Identify your responsibilities as law abiding citizens
• Identify actions/behaviors that may lead to problems with the law in
the U.S.
3. Contractual Agreements
Contracts such as apartment leasing contracts are legal binding
documents in the U.S. Once you sign a contract, you are confirming that
you agree to all the terms and conditions of that contract. Remember
when you sign up for an apartment to always read the contract carefully.
If you do not agree with the terms of the contract, do not sign it. If you
sign a contract, it is assumed that you read and understood it. Once you
sign a contract, you are bound to it by law. You cannot cancel the
contract unless the landlord or contract holder agrees.
4. Consumer Problems
Most consumer problems arise form purchase of things of value that cost some
significant amount of money such as a car. If you are buying something used
(second hand items), it may be sold “As Is”, meaning there are no guarantees. You
are accepting to buy the item in whatever condition it is at the time of purchase.
If the item breaks after buying, you will have no remedy under the law due to the
“As Is” clause.
If you have questions, about the item, ask BEFORE you buy. Do not accept verbal
guarantees. Make sure that you get those guarantees in writing. If possible, take
someone with you who is from the area who can help you ask the right questions
about the item. If purchasing a used care, test drive it. Take the car to a mechanic
to be inspected for defects or damage BEFORE you purchase it.
5. Consumer Problems (cont)
Once you have made the purchase, any defects or problems the item may present
will not be compensated by the seller. You are responsible for any costs you may
incur in rectifying the problem(s) the item pay present.
If you are purchasing a service, make sure the service provider is certified or
licensed. You may want to check for reviews on line assuming they are genuine
customer reviews. Try to get references from people who have used the service
before you begin a business deal with an individual/company. If you are renting,
talk to other tenants or the tenants you will be replacing about their experience.
6. Internet Fraud
Online purchases are very convenient and save time and sometimes money.
However, they have the potential for internet fraud since you are relying on trust
that once you pay your item will be sent to you.
When shopping online be sure that you know the seller and the terms of the sale.
Be sure to check for customer reviews. If you don’t do your homework well, you
may send your money and never get your product or money back.
7. Bad Behavior, Bad Results
Alcohol Use
WVU is considered as a dry campus. That means alcohol is not permitted on WVU
property such as in the residence halls, and other properties such as buildings,
parking lots, etc. Open alcohol containers such as beer bottles, cans or mixed
alcoholic drinks are also prohibited in public spaces. Individuals of legal drinking
age can however, have alcohol in their private premises which does not include
WVU owned properties and apartments.
The legal drinking age in the U.S. is 21. It is illegal to buy alcohol for minors (under
21 years of age) or to obtain an illegal identification card (ID) so as to falsify your
age.
8. Bad Behavior, Bad Results (cont)
Alcohol Use
Never carry open alcohol containers in your car. An open container is any
container with alcohol which has a broken seal. The assumption to a
policeman/woman would be that you are drinking and driving which is against the
law.
The penalties for drinking and driving are severe and include fines, time in jail,
volunteer service, and temporary suspension of your driver’s license. In more
sever cases where you may injure or kill someone while driving under the
influence of alcohol or other substances such as drugs, you may be charged with
criminal negligence, homicide, or manslaughter. The penalty of these crime could
be many years to life in jail.
9. Bad Behavior, Bad Results (cont)
Alcohol Use
If the police officer suspects that you are driving under the influence of
alcohol, you may be asked to take a breathalyzer teat. The test determines how
much alcohol is in your system. A bodily alcohol content of 0.08 or more indicates
you have more alcohol than is permitted while driving, and you could be charged
with Driving Under the Influence (DUI).
Do not argue with the officer, although you may respectfully ask any questions
you may have. DO NOT attempt to offer the officer any kind of bribe to let you go.
IT IS AGAINST THE LAW!
10. Hosting Parties
Be sure to go over the terms of your lease to understand what your landlord
approves or does not approve. Some landlords ay prohibit parties on their
properties. If you are permitted to have parties, you are responsible for
controlling your guest’s behavior such as noise levels to avoid disturbing the other
tenants. It’s not unusual in the U.S. for neighbors who may feel disturbed by noise
from your apartment to call the police.
If you are serving alcoholic drinks be sure to look out for your guests. Do not let
them drive home drunk. If they spend the night at your house to sober up, check
on them frequently and look for signs of alcohol poisoning.
If alcohol poisoning is suspected, be sure to call 911 (Emergency Medical
Services).
11. Criminal Acts
Criminal acts are defined as:
1. Misdemeanors – These are crimes which as punishable by less than 1 year in
jail.
2. Felonies – These are crimes that are punishable by more than 1 year in jail.
Examples of felony acts include theft of an item values at more than $1,000, or
driving a car while intoxicated and causing death as a result of an accident.
Felonies and aggravated felonies are reported to the Department of Homeland
Security (DHS). As a result your immigration status may be adversely affected.
Some misdemeanors including domestic violence and some theft offenses are also
reported to DHS which may impact your immigration status.
12. Criminal Acts (cont)
Crimes of moral turpitude (an act or behavior that gravely violates the sentiment
or accepted standard of the community) are also reported to DHS. These are
crimes that are generally defined as crimes that shock the public conscience as
being inherently vile, depraved or contrary to the rules of morality. The person
committing the crime is perceived as “having evil intent”. These crimes may
include spousal or child abuse, kidnapping, rape, fraud, etc.
If you are ever in a situation where you are charged with a felony or crime of
moral turpitude, it is very important to seek the advice of an immigration
attorney.
13. Child Safety Tips
It is against the law for parents to leave young children home alone unattended.
Always make sure that your young child is at daycare or has a sitter at hoe if they
are to stay at home in your absence. It is not uncommon that neighbors or other
tenants may call the police if they suspect that you are leaving your child home
alone.
When traveling with children, be sure that you have the correct child car seat in
your car, and that you child is correctly strapped into the seat. Children should
never be left unattended in the car, while you run errands. Always remove the
child from their car seat and take them with you. Passers-by will call the police if
they notice a child or pet locked inside a car unattended.
14. Car Seats Law
Children’s car seats are mandatory and very specific. Children who are less than 1
year and weighing less than 20 pounds have to travel in a rear facing car seat and
be placed in the rear back seat of the car.
Children who are more than 1 year old and weigh 20 pounds or more can be
carried in the rear back seat of a car with the child’s car seat facing forward.
15. Common Traffic Problems
Police will often park in certain sports along the road with speed guns to catch driving
irregularities such as speeding. The police may catch your traffic offense long before
you see the officer.
Traffic Stops
Police stops are common in the U.S. for various reasons including speeding, reckless driving,
expired license plates, defects with your car, etc. A police stop typically will involve a police
car with flashing lights following you. If you do not stop due to the flashing lights, they may
include a brief warning siren to get your attention. Slow down and stop as soon as you find
space by the right hand side of the road to avoid obstructing traffic. DO NOT get out of your
car. Roll down the window on the driver’s side of the car. Keep your hands where the police
can see them such as on your steering wheel.
16. Traffic Stops (cont.)
The officer will take some time to look up your vehicle registration then approach your
vehicle. Listen carefully to any questions you are asked and answer them politely and
truthfully. Provide any documents that you may be asked for such as your driver’s license
and proof of insurance.
If the officer suspects that you are driving under the influence of alcohol, you may be asked
to take a breathalyzer test. The test determines how much alcohol is in your system. A
bodily alcohol content of 0.08 or more indicates you have more alcohol than is permitted
while driving, and you may be charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI).
Do not argue with the officer, although you may respectfully ask any questions you may
have. DO NOT attempt to offer the officer any kind of bribe to let you go. It is a crim and will
only get you into more trouble.
17. Common Traffic Problems (cont.)
School Buses
DO NOT attempt to pass a stopped school bus with the stop signs out.
School buses are common features on U.S. roads. When a school bus stops to pick or drop
children, all traffic (going both directions) must stop at least 2 bus lengths away from the
stopped bus. The bus will normally display flashing red signs and stop signs for the traffic
going both directions. This is a precaution to ensure children get safely on or off the bus and
cross the road safely. DO NOT attempt to pass a stopped school bus with the stop signs out.
Anytime you see a STOP sign along the road, you much come to a complete stop, and check
to see if it’s safe to continue driving. Failure to do so can result in a hefty ticket or cause a
serious accident.
18. Common Traffic Problems (cont.)
Emergency Vehicles
Emergency vehicles such as police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, etc, have the right of way
when they have their lights flashing. You must quickly and safely find a spot to come to a
complete stop, so as to give way to the emergency vehicle.
If emergency vehicles are stopped by the roadside, you must slow down, and move to the
left lane if available, so as to give space to the emergency vehicles and personnel to do their
job. It is safe for you and for the emergency personnel.
19. Odds and Ends
Other issues you should be aware of…
Smoking is prohibited in most public spaces including most restaurants. Do not smoke
where no smoking signs are displayed. There will often be a designated smoking space
where smoking is prohibited.
Do NOT create a false alarm such as ringing a building fire alarm just as a joke. Not only is it
an inconvenience because people have to be evacuated, it is illegal to create a false alarm.
Be careful when visiting shopping malls. Be sure to pay for all of your items. Failure to do so
can cause you to be charged with shoplifting.
Littering is illegal and is punishable by to up $500 in fines. Trash cans are typically available
for trash disposal along side-walks and in most buildings. Take the time to find one.
20. Identity Theft
Identity theft is not common in most countries, but it is a huge industry in the U.S. Identity theft is a rime
in which someone wrongfully obtains and uses another person’s personal data in some way that involves
fraud or deception typically for financial gain.
It is your responsibility to protect yourself against identify theft. Keep you personal
identifying information secure from prying eyes. Always carefully shred any
documents with personal identifying information that needs to be discarded.
DO NOT provide your personal data such as your name, date of birth, social security number,
bank account information, credit card number, etc to anyone who does not need to have that
information. If you are suspicious of anyone who is asking you for personal identifying information,
always check on the credibility of the person before you provide such information.
21. Conclusion
This information provides a very general overview of the U.S. legal system. It is not intended
to be a substitute for legal advice if you find yourself with a legal problem. Each case is
different and is fact dependent. If you find yourself with a legal problem(s), The WVU
Student Legal Services Office is available to educate students about their legal rights,
responsibilities and obligations. Students can visit: http://studentlegalservices.wvu.edu/ for
more information, call 304-293-4897 or email sls@mail.wvu.edu to make an appointment.
The service is available to all registered students at West Virginia University.