And Another Recommended Change to Iowa Law

The State of Iowa has the crime of Public Intoxication, which prohibits that a person be 1) in public and 2) intoxicated (or simulating intoxication). When these criteria are met, the officer can effectuate an arrest and perform a search. There is not a whole lot to add here. The legislature has not defined “intoxication.” [...]

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On October 22nd, 2009, posted in: Criminal Law by

One Recommended Change to Iowa Law

Every weekend students are charged and convicted of Possession of Alcohol Under the Legal age, also known as “PAULA.” This offense has existed since alcohol age restrictions have been around. But even in the last few decades, the penalties have gone from comically low to ridiculously high. With the new (July 2009) surcharge of 35%, [...]

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On October 16th, 2009, posted in: Criminal Law by

Iowa OWI 2nd Offense, and the Ignition Interlock

Under Iowa law, people with OWI 1st offense test failures over 0.10, or test refusals must get an ignition interlock (“blow & go”) device installed on any vehicles they wish to drive or own, if they want to get a work or school permit. With a first offense, a driver is always eligible for their [...]

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On October 2nd, 2009, posted in: Criminal Law by