In Louisiana, an arrest for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, both legal and illegal, is defined by law as an “OWI” (Operating while Impaired). The expanded definition under our law extends to the physical control of motor vehicles, watercraft, and other means of conveyance. For your purposes, the terms OWI, DWI, and DUI are synonymous.

We understand that you may be feeling depressed, confused, and humiliated after an arrest. You cannot believe that something like this happened to you and there are so many things that have been affected and could be affected by a criminal conviction. You have too much to lose and need an attorney with knowledge and experience to help you through these difficult times and the complications caused by the arrest. We have dedicated much of our careers to defending individuals arrested for alcohol related offenses and have helped countless people that were in a situation similar to yours to get their life back on track.

Many have speculated that the so-called War on Drugs is over, or at least coming to an end. But if you’ve been arrested for a drug crime, you may feel differently. Louisiana has a complicated scheme for penalizing the possession, use, and distribution of drugs or “controlled dangerous substances” (CDS). The type of charge and potential consequences differ depending on the category and quantity of the drug and other circumstances surrounding the arrest. We will skillfully navigate this complex and rapidly evolving area of law with a focus on protecting your rights and interests throughout the process.

We defend individuals who are being investigated or who have been charged with criminal offenses. From burglary allegations to domestic incidents, if you are facing criminal charges or have simply been contacted by a law enforcement agency, we can help. Our representation begins the moment you hire us. We dive into police reports, obtain forensic testimony, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. We work closely with our clients, discussing events and gathering details that are pertinent to the defense. We believe that hard work and a thorough approach opens doors to uncovering vital evidence. Our rigorous attention to detail continues through the subsequent stages of a case, from pre-trial motions through discovery, courtroom presentation, cross-examination, and closing argument.

One of the government’s most powerful tools is its ability to seize assets in connection with the criminal prosecution of a defendant. By law, enforcement agencies have the right to seize money and property if there is a direct association between that money or property and drug activities. Often times, there is no connection at all, but that does not deter law enforcement officers from the seizure. In many instances, travelers have their property and possessions seized subsequent to an arrest regardless of whether drugs or other contraband are found in the vehicle. The government may also seize property that is allegedly involved in a crime. Most asset forfeiture cases are uncontested, but those persons who are affected have the right to file a claim against the seizure. Criminal forfeitures can be challenged through trial proceedings.

WARNING: IF YOU HAVE CASH OR PROPERTY SEIZED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT, YOU HAVE A LIMITED TIME TO MAKE A CLAIM. IF YOU DO NOT MAKE A CLAIM IN A TIMELY MANNER, YOUR RIGHT TO YOUR CASH OR PROPERTY MAY BE FOREVER LOST.

When you have an old arrest or criminal proceeding on your record, it can hold you back, despite never being found guilty of a crime in some circumstances. Potential employers, landlords, loan officers, college admissions officers, and even the general public may misunderstand your record and get a wrong impression of you. You could lose out on opportunities because you are viewed as a criminal when, in fact, you are an upstanding citizen. Expungement removes your criminal file from the court and public records.