Blogs from March, 2018

If you’ve been convicted of a DUI, the court may mandate that an ignition interlock device be installed in your vehicle. So what is an ignition interlock device, and how will it affect your lifestyle? We developed your 101 guide.

If you’ve been charged with a DUI, don’t panic. Call our award-winning Reno DUI lawyer today: (775) 502-1575.

What is an ignition interlock device?
An ignition interlock device, or an IID, is an alcohol-recognition device that is installed in the ignition system of a vehicle. Designed to prevent someone from driving while intoxicated, the device requires drivers to blow alcohol-free breath into the device in order for their vehicle to start.

The IID also issues information to the DMV regarding the driver’s behavior. For example, in cases where the IID detects alcohol, the DMV will be alerted of the number of attempts made to start the vehicle while intoxicated. Many IIDs also require “rolling retests,” or additional breathing tests after the car remains running for a period of time. The device informs the driver to stop driving and alerts the DMV of the test failure.

Some states require IIDs when reinstating the license of an offender, whereas other states reserve the device for second- or third-time offenders. Many states leave the designation of these devices to the judge presiding over the DUI case.

How long will I be required to have an IID in my car?
The court determines this at the time the ignition interlock device is issued, and the length of issuance depends on the severity of the offense. If you are a first-time DUI offender, the court may require the IID for six months, whereas a third-time DUI offender may be required to use an IID for multiple years.

How much does an IID cost?
A variety of costs are connected to the IID, including:

• Installment fee – The cost of installing the device ranges between $50 and $150, depending on the vehicle and the location of the IID within the car.
• Monthly maintenance fee – A monthly fee is applied to the offender for maintenance, upkeep, and monitoring. This typically ranges from $50 to $150 depending on the IID provider. Many states offer financial aid programs for IIDs, and some IID providers offer payment plans.
• Removal fee – It costs money to remove an IID system from a vehicle! The removal typically costs the same as the installation: between $50 and $150.

Can I get rid of my IID?
The court determines how long the IID must remain installed in your vehicle. Removing an IID early, or tampering with it to disrupt its functionality, can have serious consequences, including the suspension of your driver’s license and/or criminal charges.

If you have been accused of a DUI, contact our award-winning attorney at the Law Offices of Kenneth A. Stover for a free consultation: (775) 502-1575.

Our Reno DUI lawyer has over 15 years of experience. Awarded the Client Distinction Award by Martindale-Hubbell®, we always prioritize our clients and take the time to build a solid defensive strategy on behalf of those we represent. Contact the Law Offices of Kenneth A. Stover today to get started.

The language used to discuss drug crime charges can be confusing, and is often misunderstood. In order to build a proper defense, it is important to know exactly what your charges mean. Drug trafficking and drug distribution differ by a few key factors.

If you’ve been charged with trafficking or distribution, contact a Reno drug crime attorney at the Law Offices of Kenneth A. Stover. Our knowledgeable lawyer has over 15 years of experience, and can help build a solid defense for your case.

Trafficking

Drug trafficking is the illegal sale or distribution of a controlled substance. This usually refers to a delivery that already occurred. Trafficking charges involve a large number of sales, or a large amount of substance delivered over time.

Distribution

Drug distribution is the physical act of selling or providing a controlled substance. Typically, distribution charges occur when someone attempts to sell to an undercover police officer. The act of selling the substance is considered a criminal offense.

Controlled Substances

Controlled substances are those drugs that have been limited to the public because the federal government has identified their addictive nature as dangerous.

The Drug Enforcement Administration classifies controlled substances based on their level of abusive and/or addictive properties. For example, a Schedule I drug, such as marijuana, heroin, ecstasy, or LSD, has the highest potential for abuse, whereas a Schedule V drug, like Motofen, has a lower potential for abuse. In the eyes of the court, a substance’s Schedule can impact the severity of the crime and can lead to a harsher sentence.

Possible Punishments

Penalties for drug trafficking and distribution are affected by the following:

• Type of controlled substance
• Schedule of the substance, as determined by the DEA
• Whether or not the distribution involved minors
• Location of the sale

Drug trafficking and distribution sentences can range from 3 years to life in prison. Typically, drug trafficking charges carry greater sentences than drug distribution charges.

Contact our Reno drug crime lawyer at (775) 502-1575 to discuss your distribution or trafficking charges.

At the Law Offices of Kenneth A. Stover, we work to minimize the impact of your charges. By investigating the crime, we can build a workable defense for your case. Our drug crime attorney is a distinguished recipient of multiple national awards, and has defended cases in over 70 courts throughout Nevada. Contact our office today.