Getting a DUI in Kentucky causes more problems than just fines and losing a driver’s license. People with jobs that require a license risk losing their ability to work. Many job licensing boards enforce strict rules, and a DUI often results in punishments, a suspended license, or even complete revocation. Understanding these risks helps people make smart choices when dealing… The post What happens to a professional license after a DUI in Kentucky? first appeared on Michael T. Burns, PLLC ..read more

Domestic violence can affect child custody decisions in Kentucky. Courts prioritize the child’s well-being and take allegations of abuse seriously. If domestic violence is present, it can influence custody arrangements and parental rights. How courts evaluate domestic violence claims Judges consider evidence of domestic violence when determining custody. This can include police reports, protective orders, witness statements, and medical records.… The post How does domestic violence impact child custody? first appeared on Michael T. Burns, PLLC ..read more

Driving under the influence (DUI) laws in Kentucky hold drivers under 21 to stricter standards than those for adults. Kentucky’s zero-tolerance approach aims to discourage underage drinking and driving while ensuring accountability for young drivers. What is Kentucky’s zero-tolerance law? Kentucky’s zero-tolerance law prohibits drivers under the age of 21 from operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC)… The post How does Kentucky law address DUI charges for drivers under 21? first appeared on Michael T. Burns, PLLC ..read more

Police body-worn cameras are becoming more common during arrests, including in domestic violence situations. This footage can play a significant role in both prosecution and defense strategies. Understanding how body-worn camera footage impacts domestic violence cases can help those involved know what to expect. Evidence for prosecutors Body-worn camera footage provides visual and audio evidence of the events during a… The post How does body-cam footage impact domestic violence cases? first appeared on Michael T. Burns, PLLC ..read more

Getting a DUI in Kentucky can come with serious consequences, including the possibility of going to jail. Whether you end up in jail depends on several factors, and it is important for all drivers to understand them. First-time DUI offense For a first-time DUI offense, jail time is possible but not guaranteed. The penalties can include a jail sentence ranging… The post Will you go to jail for a DUI? first appeared on Michael T. Burns, PLLC ..read more

In Kentucky, a domestic violence conviction can have lasting effects on a person’s life. It can limit job opportunities, restrict housing options and even affect other basic rights.  Fortunately, Kentucky law provides a way to remove certain convictions from a criminal record. Understanding this expungement process will help you determine if your circumstances are eligible. How does expungement work in… The post Can I remove a domestic violence conviction from my record? first appeared on Michael T. Burns, PLLC ..read more

When law enforcement pulls you over for a suspected DUI in Kentucky, knowing your rights is crucial. One key aspect is whether you can refuse a police search of your car. Understanding consent and probable cause Police officers need either your consent or probable cause to search your car. Probable cause means they have a reasonable belief that your vehicle… The post Refusing a police search during a DUI stop first appeared on Michael T. Burns, PLLC ..read more

Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense, especially if it’s not the first time someone has committed this violation. Kentucky takes a strict approach to repeat DUI offenses, imposing increasingly severe penalties to discourage dangerous behavior on the roads.  State laws escalate the penalties for each subsequent DUI offense to reflect the increased risk posed by habitual offenders. Second DUI offense If someone commits a second DUI within a ten-year period, they face a driver’s license suspension for 12 to 18 months. The court may also impose a jail sen ..read more

Facing any criminal charges can be incredibly distressing. However, accusations of domestic violence are particularly difficult and can have a dramatic impact on your life. Still, there are ways to safeguard your rights during an investigation and minimize any negative aftermath. Gather evidence that supports your case Gathering evidence is one of the most important steps in defending against domestic violence accusations. Collect text messages, emails, photos, videos or witness statements that support your version of events. These pieces of evidence can be key to providing context to the situ ..read more

Driving under the influence, or DUI, checkpoints are common on roads. These checkpoints serve as a way for law enforcement to deter and catch you if you are driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Understanding what happens at these checkpoints can help you navigate them safely. Arrival at the checkpoint and initial contact As you approach a DUI checkpoint, you will likely see warning signs indicating its presence. Law enforcement officers will direct you to merge into a designated lane where vehicles stop for inspection. Once stopped at the checkpoint, an officer will approach your vehicl ..read more