Woman Acquitted After Successful DUI Defense
According to Bay City News, in September, Marlise Paulo went to a bar to watch an NFL game with her boyfriend. It was her boyfriend’s birthday, and they were travelling to celebrate. Being responsible, they left their car at the hotel before walking to the bar for the game.
During the game, Paulo’s boyfriend became belligerent and began to spit chewing tobacco on the bar’s floor. Soon, the bouncer removed the boyfriend. Paulo followed him outside where he became aggravated and acted aggressively toward her because he thought that she took the bouncer’s side against him.
Hoping that he would cool off if she gave him space, Paulo walked back to the hotel room and fell asleep. Soon, though, she was awakened by her boyfriend who was pounding on the hotel room door. She let him in the room, and he violently pushed her into the bedside table, leaving her with a cut and a black eye.
She fled the room and eventually made her way to the car and locked herself inside. Her boyfriend found her and began trying to smash the window, saying that he would beat her to death. Fearing for her life, Paulo drove away but was quickly pulled over by a police officer.
Paulo Lied To Police And Was Charged With Driving Under The Influence (DUI)
Paulo testified that she was afraid that if she told the officer about the beating, her boyfriend would become even more violent toward her, so she lied, and the officer arrested her for drunk driving. The arresting officer did note in his report that he suspected that domestic abuse played a role in her injuries.
If you have been arrested and charged with a DUI, you’ll want to speak with a defense attorney as soon as possible. A good defense attorney can help you work toward a lesser charge or an acquittal, depending on your situation.
At The Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, P.A., we specialize in providing a strong DUI defense for Fort Myers residents. To discuss your arrest with a knowledgeable, experienced attorney, Call Us At 866-949-0888 Today!
Paulo’s Defense Attorney Argued That She Had No Choice But To Drive Drunk
Her DUI defense was built around the claim that she had to choose between driving while intoxicated and possibly being beaten to death in the hotel parking lot. The jury agreed with the defense, deciding that she should not be found guilty of DUI because of extenuating circumstances.
The verdict is a perfect example of the fact that no two cases are completely identical, and the justice system can and will make exceptions.
A DUI conviction can wreak havoc on your life, costing both money and opportunities, so don’t take any chances. Instead, call us. We have more than 15 years of experience, and we will work hard to achieve the best possible solution to your charge. To schedule a free initial consultation, Call Us At 866-949-0888 Today!
