Legal Question in DUI Law in California

20 yr old dui charge -out of state

So 20 yrs ago, while on vacation in another state, a ''friend'' was arrested & charged with alcohol/drug in vehicle, unlicensed driver and bac over .08. Now ''friend'' is looking to adopt internationally and they want disposition of case. Friend didnt go to court, and never heard from court since that day, so assumed case was dropped. Not so, b/c I Found case on website and disposition was marked with an asterik. Not available. How can I make this go away w/o spending thousands of dollars? This was 20 yrs ago. Friend is different person now. Just want to adopt a baby and want these charges dismissed so that we are approved to adopt.


Asked on 7/06/08, 2:02 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

Re: 20 yr old dui charge -out of state

Now that the NY lawyer has given you the bad news about what good lawyers charge to attempt the cleanup of still-very-much-active fugitive warrants, it's not clear from your question what state and locality the case is in.

I am in southern California.

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Answered on 7/07/08, 6:05 am
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: 20 yr old dui charge -out of state

There is an arrest warrant outstanding for him in that state. He'll need to contact an attorney in that state to investigate the case and advise how to handle it. Those charges are not going to get "dismissed" just because they are old.

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Answered on 7/07/08, 1:53 pm
Anthony Colleluori The Law Offices of Anthony J. Colleluori & Associates PLLC

Re: 20 yr old dui charge -out of state

You can't.

Look, you need a lawyer. For starters you could get your case dismissed and be charged with bail jump instead. Lawyers work incredibly hard to earn a degree which lets them represent you. They want to be paid the way that Doctors stockbrokers (and professional athletes who do not save lives and help people generally) get paid. Further the work is hard if it is done correctly. In law, it is guaranteed you get what you pay for. You hire a cheap lawyer, then you shouldn't expect much.

Hence you will need to hire someone who is good at this. Further if the evidence is still there, it is doubtful a District attorney will reward your "friend" for being a fugitive.

As for how much you will spend, you should get the best lawyer you can not the cheapest. The decision you make may effect your future ability to not only adopt but to leave the country.

If you want to discuss your case with me, you may contact me through the links below. Fees however will be in the thousands of dollars...

BTW, How much are you spending on the adoption??

Good luck.

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Answered on 7/06/08, 8:45 pm


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