25 Years of DUI Defense and Prosecution Experience.

Here to help you navigate and fight DUI Charges.

Meridian, Idaho DUI Defense Attorney Michael Larsen

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Serving Ada, Canyon, Boise, and Payette counties

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Aggressive DUI Defense in Meridian, Idaho

Ada County is responsible for a majority of the 10,000 yearly charges for driving under the influence (DUI) in Idaho. Since 2011, Meridian DUIs reportedly increased to never-before seen highs: 385 in 2015, and 357 in 2016. Meridian had 86 DUI crashes in 2016, second only to Boise.

With the Meridian population booming to all-time highs, Meridian Police Department is continually changing their strategy for DUIs. For example, as of December 2019, Meridian PD heavily increased DUI patrols over the holidays. Idaho laws are some of the toughest in the country. If you, like many others, have found yourself charged with a DUI in Meridian, ID, it is crucial to have representation that is highly knowledgeable of the DUI laws and processes in that specific area.

What is a DUI?

In Meridian, Idaho a driver can be arrested for driving under the influence when they drive any motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher. Anyone under the age of 21 can be arrested for DUI with a BAC of .02% or higher. Commercial vehicle drivers can be charged with a DUI with a BAC of .04%. DUI with a BAC of .20% or higher results in an excessive DUI with increased penalties.

Consequences of a DUI in Meridian, Idaho

The consequences and penalties of a DUI in Meridian depend on whether you have a prior DUI conviction, and other circumstances surrounding the charge.

  • DUI First Offense
    • Misdemeanor
    • Possible 6 months in jail, though not mandatory
    • Up to $1,000 fine
    • License suspension for 90-180 days
    • A law passed in 2019 mandated that even first offense DUIs in Meridian, ID require a mandatory ignition interlock, or in-car breathalyzer
  • DUI Second Offense
    • Misdemeanor
    • Mandatory 10 days in jail, possible jail time up to 1 year
    • Up to $2,000 fine
    • License suspension for 1 year
    • Mandatory ignition interlock
  • DUI Third Offense and Beyond
    • Felony
    • Mandatory 30 days in jail, possible incarceration up to 10 years
    • Up to $5,000 fine
    • License suspension for 1 year – up to 5 years
    • Mandatory ignition interlock device at the expense of the driver
  • Excessive DUI (BAC .20% or greater)
    • Misdemeanor
    • Mandatory 10 days in jail, possible jail time up to 1 year
    • Up to $2,000 fine
    • License suspension for 1 year
    • Mandatory ignition interlock device at the expense of the driver
  • 2nd Excessive DUI (within 5 years of prior excessive DUI)
    • Felony
    • Mandatory 30 days in jail, possible incarceration up to 5 years
    • License suspension for 1 year – up to 5 years
    • Mandatory ignition interlock device at the expense of the driver

DUI cases are very intricate and can be complicated. It is important to have an experienced and skilled attorney to help you navigate through the legal process.

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Call to Speak With Michael Today
(208) 407-8100

DUI defense attorney Michael Larsen has over 25 years of experience in the criminal justice system, including fifteen years as a prosecutor specializing in felony and misdemeanor DUI cases. As a former Idaho Deputy Attorney, he has an expansive knowledge of the Idaho courts. Larsen Law Office offers full DUI defense services in all of Ada, Canyon, Boise, and Payette counties. Many of Michael’s clients are from Meridian and his experience on both sides of these cases ensures that he knows the protocol for providing you the best defense possible.

Leave No Stone Unturned

Every DUI arrest produces an audio/video recording, numerous police reports, breath tests, copies of advisory forms, and copies of logs, calibration records and officer certification records. Each of these documents or recordings are important because they are part of required procedures a police officer must follow in order for evidence from your DUI arrest to be admissible in court.

A thorough review of these documents can uncover a potential legal defense that can lead to a dismissal. Even if grounds for a dismissal are not found, many times a thorough review can lead to discovery of information that results in reduced charges—often in the form of a non-DUI resolution. It’s incredible the errors and contradictions these documents often contain and checking them thoroughly is the first line of defense in all DUI cases.

Michael takes pride in outworking the government’s attorneys.

From reviewing the discovery to preparing court filings, a DUI-focused attorney shouldn’t just be “involved,” your attorney needs to be at the center of the action, making certain that you receive the best defense possible while keeping you updated and educated on each step of the process.

Facing DUI or other Criminal Charges and want to speak with an attorney?

Call or use this form to schedule a FREE consultation with Michael to discuss the details of your case.

  • Get answers to your questions and concerns.
  • Learn how Michael’s extensive experience can be used to your advantage.
  • Discover how you can fight charges brought against you.
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