DUI Blogger

Actor Kiefer Sutherland has pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor drunk driving charge, according to a news report in The Los Angeles Times . The “24” star was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol and a probation violation stemming from a separate DUI case three years ago.

The DA’s office has recommended to the judge that the actor be sentenced to 48 days in jail on both those charges. But if the judge does not accept the plea deal, Sutherland faces up to one year of jail time. The actor is scheduled to be sentenced Dec. 21 before Los Angeles Superior Court Judge, Stuart Rice.

Sutherland was stopped at the corner of La Cienega and Beverly early morning Sept. 25 after he was reportedly spotted making an illegal U-turn. Officers then made the actor take field sobriety tests, which he reportedly failed. The Times also reported that the 40-year-old actor’s blood alcohol level was more than twice the legal limit in the state of California, which is .08. Celebrity Web site TMZ reported that Sutherland was returning from a Fox party at a night club near where he was arrested.

Apparently, this wasn’t Sutherland’s first alcohol-related offense. The Times reported that he already had three of those on his record. Sutherland had released a statement through his publicist that he was “very disappointed” in himself.

Although this incident involves a celebrity, it’s not too different from a common DUI arrest that occurs on city streets every day. Most police agencies administer Breathalyzer tests and field sobriety tests, but not many of us know that we have the right to not take the field sobriety tests. Our attorneys have found in their handling of numerous DUI cases that many police officers lack the knowledge and training to conduct these field sobriety tests effectively.

If you or a loved one has been arrested on suspicion of a DUI, call our knowledgeable Southern California Drunk Driving defense attorney to schedule your free consultation and discuss your case. A DUI case can have dire consequences on your career and family life. Your license could get suspended or revoked. Don’t delay. Call us today.