Many New Jersey residents have been charged with drunk driving, and many celebrities get in trouble for it too. For example, John Stamos, star of the new FOX television show “Grandfathered”, has been sentenced to three years of summary probation because of allegedly driving while impaired.
Stamos, age 52, has been a well-known television star for years after appearing in hit shows like “Full House” and “ER.” During his probation, he must attend for three months a class meant to educate first-time DUI offenders. The court also requires that he submit proof of attendance at 52 substance-abuse meetings that follow a 12-step program, such as Alcoholics Anonymous.
The actor received his sentence after entering a no contest plea, which means he neither admitted to the charges nor disputed them. His lawyer communicated the plea on his behalf. The district attorney’s office handling his case did not comment on what substance was involved at the time of the actor’s arrest. According to the police report, paramedics took Stamos to a hospital after authorities stopped him for erratic driving.
A person who has been pulled over for drunk driving might face numerous penalties, including fines and jail time, in the event of a conviction. An attorney could help the defendant understand the possible consequences in a specific situation and assemble a defense. Strategies employed could include questioning the validity of a sobriety test or negotiating with the prosecutor for a plea of guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a reduced penalty. An attorney might also help the defendant regain driving privileges in a timely manner.
Source: CNN, “John Stamos pleads no contest to DUI“, Emanuella Grinberg, Nov. 24, 2015
