May 18, 2020 | Criminal Defense, DUI, DUI Omaha, General

Nebraskans are watching to see when Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts further eases COVID-19-restrictions on public gatherings in the state. Businesses in nearly every industry are already planning for what to expect when they’re allowed to open their doors once again. Bars, pubs, and taverns are among those who are especially eager to reopen, serve patrons, and bring in much-needed revenue – especially as the summer draws near. But with reopened bars comes more drinking, more socializing, more driving – and the likelihood of Omaha police making more DUI arrests.

COVID-19 has had a devastating effect on the restaurant industry. But while places that serve food have relied on takeout and delivery apps to stay afloat, watering holes everywhere have suffered. Social distancing and self-isolation has made many of us long for company, and that includes heading to the bar with our friends after a long day. The rush may encourage some to drink a little more than normal, and not realizing they’ve had too much, get in the car to head home rather than call an Uber. And the police will possibly set up sobriety checkpoints, looking for drunk drivers and DUI arrests.

Best Omaha DUI Lawyer

 A DUI conviction carries potentially life-changing consequences. At High & Younes, our experience and communication skills have earned us the respect of our colleagues, judges, prosecutors – and especially our clients. We are skilled in DUI arrests and all areas of criminal law.

We will fight for your rights, work to get your DUI charges reduced or dismissed, and bring about the best outcome possible to your case. Call our Omaha DUI attorney today at 402-933-3345 or fill out our contact form here.

It’s important to call as soon as possible after a DUI citation. Don’t wait. You have too much at stake.

COVID-19 Update: Nebraska State of Emergency Order and What it Means for Bars 

As Ricketts declared a state of emergency and issued the stay-at-home order, various news outlets reported that the number of drunk driving arrests in Nebraska has decreased.

The pandemic pushed on. Ricketts said recently that bars that serve only alcohol would not be allowed to reopen in May – however it is a possibility for June.

“As we go through the month of May, we’ll be looking at the data. I would say stay tuned,” the governor said during his daily press conference on May 12.

However, when the bars do begin to reopen, it is plausible to assume the numbers of DUI arrests will increase as well. Some people will have fears over gathering, but some will probably be itching to get out and feel a sense of normalcy.

It’s to be expected. People across the globe – including Nebraskans – have been dealing with drastic lifestyle changes during the pandemic: Isolating at home; being laid off from work or experiencing reduced hours and pay; vacation plans canceled, school over until August. On top of it all, social media and news headlines tout the increasing number of COVID-19 cases and deaths.

A lot of people would need a drink after the ups and downs of this. For those who head out to the bars upon their reopening, the team at High & Younes warn: Even if you only have one drink, you can still be stopped by a law enforcement officer and suspected of DUI.

What Does DUI Stand For?  

A DUI is a commonly used acronym meaning “Driving under the influence of alcoholic liquor or drugs” under Nebraska statute.

If a law enforcement officer pulls you over, gives you a field sobriety test, and ultimately a Breathalyzer test, you’re considered impaired if you’re found to have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. That’s the law in Nebraska and most other states in the U.S. In other words, you cannot legally operate a motor vehicle under the law if your BAC is 0.08 or higher. If you’re under 21, BAC doesn’t matter. Nebraska’s zero-tolerance law makes it illegal for drivers younger than 21 to have any alcohol in their system before getting behind the wheel.

DUI Penalties in Nebraska 

A first offense DUI can land you 10 days in jail. A second offense carries a minimum of 30 days up to 90 days in jail, while a third offense brings a minimum of 90 days to 180 days in jail.

At the same time, your drivers’ license will be suspended in most scenarios. Sometimes people are given a temporary license valid for 15 days. Depending on previous offenses, you could have your license revoked for up to 15 years.

Your license will be suspended for one year if you refuse to take a Breathalyzer test; 180 days if you fail a breathalyzer test on your first offense; and one year if you fail a breathalyzer test and you’re on your second offense within 15 years.

Should I Represent Myself? 

It may seem hopeless. You may feel like you should skip hiring an Omaha criminal defense attorney and represent yourself. The worst thing you can do is try to go it alone and take your punishment. Remember, you have rights. Our DUI defense team has successfully represented clients in complicated cases that seem impossible to win. Don’t give up. We can help.

Call us today to set up a free consultation at (402) 933-3345 or reach out via live chat on our home page.

First DUI Offense – What You Need To Know

Getting through a DUI arrest in Nebraska can be challenging, especially when it’s your first criminal offense. In Nebraska, by operating a motor vehicle, you give implied consent to submit to a chemical test anytime you’re suspected of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. You have the right to refuse a chemical test, but you should be aware of the consequences for doing so.

Refusing to submit to a chemical test when pulled over for a DUI  will get you immediately arrested, and your driving privileges will be suspended. During your trial, the prosecution can introduce the fact that you refused to submit to a chemical test. This fact will work against you at your trial.

If you are facing your first — or second or third — DUI charge, and you haven’t called a lawyer yet, call the office of High & Younes for a free consultation immediately. Our attorneys know that facing a DUI charge is scary. We will defend you to the highest degree and help you get back to your normal life as quickly as possible.

DUI Penalties 

Driving under the Influence is a Class W Misdemeanor in Nebraska. The possible penalty varies depending on whether the conviction is the first, second or third offense. However, the maximum potential sentence ranges from 60 days to one year in jail and between a $500 and $1,000 fine.

We will look at all aspects of your case in great detail. You need this level of legal counsel because driving under the influence cases can be the most difficult ones in which to obtain a successful outcome. Everyone deserves the right to the best defense available and the lawyers at High & Younes will provide you with the best. Call us today at 402-933-3345.