Behan Ramsell Attorneys File Brief With the U.S. Supreme Court

 Posted on March 07, 2019 in DUI

Recently, Attorneys Michelle Behan and Donald Ramsell co-authored an amicus curiae (“friend of the court”) brief which was filed with the United States Supreme Court on behalf of the National College for DUI Defense (NCDD). This brief was in support of the petitioner in the case of Gerald P. Mitchell v. Wisconsin.

The brief made a number of arguments regarding people’s rights when asked to submit to blood alcohol content (BAC) tests in DUI cases. First, it argued that tests such as blood draws are covered by the Fourth Amendment and that a warrant should be required in order to conduct this type of search. In addition, “implied consent” laws are problematic, since they waive a person’s Constitutional rights to give voluntary consent to a search.

Second, the brief argued that the electronic warrant procedures implemented by the majority of states should be used in DUI cases. The ability to obtain a warrant in minutes makes legislated consent unnecessary and helps avoid the over-broad application of implied consent rules.

Third, the brief argued that there is 200 years of precedence in the United States protecting people’s Constitutional rights against unreasonable searches. Implied consent statutes conflict with these rights, which should render them null.

With this brief, Attorneys Behan and Ramsell demonstrated their knowledge of DUI laws and the rights of those who are facing charges related to drunk driving. If you have been arrested for DUI, The Behan Law Group, P.L.L.C. can help you understand your best options for defense. Contact our Tucson DUI defense lawyers today at 520-220-5047 to schedule a free consultation.