Legal Insights & Defense Strategies
Stay informed and empowered with expert legal insights from Sallinger / Melancon Defense Attorneys. Our insights page features the latest updates on criminal defense strategies and case law developments to help you better understand your rights. Whether you’re looking for guidance on legal matters or want to stay ahead of changes in criminal law, our attorneys provide in-depth analysis and practical knowledge. Explore our latest articles below.
No Refusal and Forced Blood Extraction
Certain parishes institute a “no refusal” program. Under these programs, an individual who “refuses” to voluntarily submit to a breath test will be served...
The Incredible Shrinking Fourth Amendment
The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated,...
Why You Will Hate City Court
Lafayette City Court handles as many OWI cases as any city court in Louisiana. The officers who make the majority of OWI arrests are...
The Textalyzer – coming soon to a police department near you!
Over the last seven years, most states, including Louisiana, have banned texting by drivers, and public service campaigns have tried an array of tactics...
I Thought the Legal Limit Was .08
If you are over 21, it is – sort of. Under Louisiana law, if you are over 21 and you test above .08 on...
To Stop Bad Prosecutors, Call the Feds
Prosecutors are the most powerful players in the American criminal justice system. Their decisions — like whom to charge with a crime, and what...
How Much is Too Much?
Let me start with a disclaimer: I do not encourage anyone to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. Everyone is different. Your body,...
Statewide Update: Five Months After Act 194 Louisiana Still Has No OWI Misdemeanor Jury Trial Protocols
Louisiana’s criminal justice system is facing a major procedural shift and, so far, no one seems prepared for it. On June 8, 2025, Governor...
Flawed Science: measuring my breath reveals what’s in my blood?
No, it doesn’t. It’s reasonable to assume that if the government gives you a test to determine if you’ve broken the law, the test...
But My Dog Was Driving, Officer
Those accused of traffic violations can come up with many alternative theories of reality which support their innocence. Recently, a driver in Port St....