Law Office of David von Wiegandt Law Office of David von Wiegandt 2026-10-01T00:21:27Z https://www.davidvwlaw.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1505065/2023/01/cropped-wiegandt-site-icon-32x32.png On Behalf of Law Office of David von Wiegandt <![CDATA[Pulled over with drugs in the car? Protect yourself in 4 steps]]> https://www.davidvwlaw.com/?p=254644 2026-10-01T00:21:27Z 2026-10-01T00:21:27Z 1. Pull over safely and stay calm Signal immediately and park your vehicle in a safe, well-lit area along the shoulder. Turn off the engine, roll down your window slightly and keep both hands visibly on the steering wheel. Avoid making sudden movements or reaching under seats, as officers often view those actions as attempts to hide illegal items.

2. Refuse searches politely to protect your rights

The Fourth Amendment guards citizens against unreasonable searches, but officers often bypass warrant requirements if they claim probable cause, such as smelling illegal substances, receiving information or seeing drug paraphernalia or other illegal items in plain view. Never give permission when an officer asks to search your trunk, glove box or personal bags. State clearly and calmly, "I do not consent to any searches." Refusing a search does not mean you are guilty; it simply forces the police to follow strict legal standards.

3. Limit your speech and avoid explanations

Politely provide your driver's license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance, but do not answer probing questions about your destination or vehicle contents. Officers record your answers to build a criminal case against you, and anything you say can destroy your defense later. Tell the officer that you choose to remain silent until you speak with a lawyer.

4. Record key details and call an attorney immediately

Pay attention to officer behavior, squad car numbers and the precise timeline of the stop, because unlawful searches frequently happen when police hold you longer than necessary without solid evidence. If officers arrest you, call a criminal defense attorney right away. A skilled lawyer reviews police body camera footage, dashcam videos and radio logs to prove police misconduct or illegal detention, which can help get your charges reduced or completely thrown out in court. Getting arrested for drug possession carries severe penalties in Kentucky, but a single traffic stop does not have to ruin your life. Experienced attorneys know how to challenge improper traffic stops, expose constitutional violations and protect your rights in local courtrooms. Taking fast legal action gives you the best chance to beat your charges and keep your record clean.]]> On Behalf of Law Office of David von Wiegandt <![CDATA[Can an EPO force you out of your home in Louisville?]]> https://www.davidvwlaw.com/?p=254628 2026-09-17T07:39:32Z 2026-09-17T07:39:32Z A heated argument can quickly change when police arrive and someone accuses you of domestic assault. You may be arrested and face an emergency protective order (EPO). An EPO can affect where you can stay and whether you can contact a family member. In Louisville, you may also face a criminal charge along with a separate protective-order case. Things can become harder when an accusation leaves out key details or tells the story differently from what happened. Taking early steps can help you respond to the claims while protecting your home, family contact and other parts of your daily life.

What can happen after a domestic assault arrest

When police respond to a domestic dispute, an officer may make an arrest based on the circumstances at the scene. The criminal case and any protective-order case are separate matters, so an EPO can create restrictions even while the criminal charge remains unresolved. An EPO can affect your living arrangements and contact with the other person. In Kentucky, emergency protective orders are temporary and generally remain in place until a court hearing, which is usually held within 14 days.

How an accusation can affect your home and family

A protective order may create practical problems beyond the criminal charge. Depending on the circumstances, court orders can address issues involving custody, timesharing and other restrictions. Several immediate concerns may arise after an accusation:
  • Housing: An order may restrict where you can go or whom you can contact.
  • Parenting: Restrictions may interfere with regular contact or parenting time.
  • Criminal record: A pending domestic assault charge can create consequences beyond the immediate dispute.
  • Court proceedings: You may need to address both the criminal case and a protective-order proceeding.
Because these matters can move quickly, early legal assistance can help you assess the allegations, respond to court orders and protect your interests in the criminal and protective-order proceedings.

Taking back control of your housing

A domestic dispute does not end when police leave the scene. An arrest, criminal charge or EPO can affect where you live, who you can contact and how you interact with your family. When accusations are inaccurate or exaggerated, the consequences can extend beyond the original dispute. Addressing the criminal charges and protective-order restrictions early can help protect your living arrangements, family relationships and future record.]]>