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# Dewey & Braud Law: Baton Rouge Criminal Defense Lawyers

## Sitemaps
[XML Sitemap](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Posts
- [What Does "Sustained" Mean in Court? Understanding Sustained vs Overruled in Louisiana](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/what-does-sustained-mean-in-court-understanding-sustained-vs-overruled-in-louisiana/): If you have ever watched a courtroom drama, you have heard an attorney jump up and shout "Objection!" followed by a judge responding with a single word: "sustained" or "overruled." These rulings might seem like small courtroom moments, but they can significantly shape what a jury hears and, in some cases, affect the outcome of a criminal case.
- [DWI Defense Strategies: An Insider's Perspective](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/dwi-defense-strategies-an-insiders-perspective/): By A. Thomas Dewey, ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist
- [What Are Your Rights During a Drug Arrest in Louisiana?](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/what-are-your-rights-during-a-drug-arrest-in-louisiana/): Being arrested for a drug offense in Louisiana can feel overwhelming and confusing, especially if you are unsure what happens next or whether your rights were respected. Louisiana drug laws are strict, and even a first-time charge can carry serious consequences. 
- [First-Time DWI in Louisiana: What to Expect and How to Protect Your Future](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/first-time-dwi-in-louisiana-what-to-expect-and-how-to-protect-your-future/): Getting arrested for DWI is overwhelming. If this is your first offense, you're likely facing uncertainty about what happens next, what penalties you're looking at, and whether this will follow you for the rest of your life.
- [Can You Get a DWI on a Horse in Louisiana?](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/can-you-get-a-dwi-on-a-horse-in-louisiana/): A question that sounds like the setup to a bar joke—but the legal answer might surprise you.
- [Parole vs. Probation in Louisiana: What's the Difference?](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/parole-vs-probation-in-louisiana-whats-the-difference/): Louisiana's criminal justice landscape shifted dramatically with a sweeping "tough on crime" legislative push that fundamentally changed how supervision works in this state. Both parole and probation are forms of community supervision that allow people to serve time outside of prison, but they apply at very different points in the legal process and carry very different rules in 2026. A single technical violation today can result in a significantly longer return to incarceration than it would have just a few years ago.
- [Not Guilty: Defending Against Vehicular Homicide in a West Feliciana Parish Boating Case](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/not-guilty-defending-against-vehicular-homicide-in-a-west-feliciana-parish-boating-case/): On March 18, 2026, a West Feliciana Parish jury returned a verdict of not guilty in a vehicular homicide case we tried on behalf of a client – a man who had carried the weight of these charges for nearly three years.
- [Understanding the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) Test in Louisiana DUI Stops](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/understanding-the-horizontal-gaze-nystagmus-hgn-test-in-louisiana-dui-stops/): If you have been stopped for suspected DUI in Louisiana, there is a good chance an officer asked you to perform the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test. This eye test is one of the most commonly used field sobriety tests, yet it is also one of the most misunderstood. Many drivers assume failing the HGN test automatically means a DUI conviction, but that is not how the law works.
- [Four Louisiana DWI Offenses Every Driver Should Know](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/four-louisiana-dwi-offenses-every-driver-should-know/): Louisiana has some of the strictest DWI laws in the country, and even a first conviction can lead to jail time, fines, license suspension, and long term consequences for employment and insurance. But as the offenses increase, the penalties get significantly harsher. By the time a driver reaches a third or fourth conviction, they are facing felony charges, mandatory jail time, and long term ignition interlock requirements.
- [The Hidden Consequences of Having a Criminal Record](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/the-hidden-consequences-of-having-a-criminal-record/): Jobs that seem out of reach, rental applications that disappear without a clear reason, professional licensure held up, relationships tested more than you imagined. Many people don’t realize how quietly a criminal record rewrites the rules of everyday life. It’s hard to avoid the stigma that comes with a criminal record even if your sentence is served and the court date is behind you.
- [What Happens When Someone Presses Charges Against You?](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/what-happens-when-someone-presses-charges-against-you/): When someone presses charges against you, it sets a legal process in motion that can quickly become serious. It’s not just a misunderstanding or a conversation with the police; it’s the beginning of a formal case that could impact your reputation, your freedom, and your future. At this stage, what you do, and who you trust, matters. Having experienced legal counsel is essential to understanding what the charges actually mean, how the process works, and what steps you can take to protect yourself. 
- [How to Fight a Restraining Order in Louisiana ](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/how-to-fight-a-restraining-order-in-louisiana/): Getting served with a restraining order can quickly disrupt your life, creating immediate questions about your legal rights and what comes next.  A restraining order not only impacts your personal and social life but can also have legal consequences that may follow you for years. But what exactly happens when someone puts a restraining order on you? Can you fight it? These orders can have lasting effects on your personal and professional relationships, but they are not always set in stone. 
- [The Role of DNA Evidence in Criminal Defense Cases: Pros & Cons](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/the-role-of-dna-evidence-in-criminal-defense-cases-pros-cons/): DNA evidence has revolutionized the field of criminal justice, offering a scientific method for identifying individuals involved in crimes. While it can be a powerful tool for both prosecution and defense, DNA evidence isn’t without challenges. Our attorneys will examine the advantages, limitations, and complexities associated with DNA evidence, as well as its role in crafting successful defense strategies. If DNA evidence has been presented against you, Dewey & Braud Law is here to protect your rights.
- [Louisiana's New Law: A Dangerous Precedent](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/louisianas-new-law-a-dangerous-precedent/): Earlier this year, Louisiana lawmakers passed a law that would begin treating juvenile offenders, specifically 17 year olds, as adults in the criminal justice system. The idea behind this new law was to reduce teen violence, but nearly 70% of all the 17 year olds who have been arrested aren’t accused of violent crimes. That means law enforcement is placing teenagers in adult facilities for non-violent crimes and stripping them of their chance at rehabilitation.
- [Understanding Age of Consent Laws in Louisiana](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/understanding-age-of-consent-laws-in-louisiana/): Navigating the complexities of the legal system can be a daunting task, especially when dealing with sensitive matters such as age of consent laws. If you or someone you know is facing charges related to these laws in Louisiana, it is crucial to understand the legal landscape and your rights.
- [Gwen's Law in Louisiana: Understanding Your Rights and Potential Consequences](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/gwens-law-in-louisiana-understanding-your-rights-and-potential-consequences/): Understand your rights and potential consequences under Louisiana's Gwen's Law. This blog post explains the law, its application, and how a criminal defense attorney can help.
- [Busted for a DUI? Understanding Ignition Interlock Devices in Baton Rouge](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/busted-for-a-dui-understanding-ignition-interlock-devices-in-baton-rouge/): The aftermath of a DUI arrest can be a daunting experience, fraught with legal complexities and potential life-altering consequences. Among the potential penalties, ignition interlock devices (IIDs) have become increasingly common. Understanding these devices, their implications, and your rights is crucial for navigating this challenging period. This comprehensive guide will provide you with essential information about IIDs and their impact on DUI offenders in Baton Rouge.
- [Louisiana Law Classifies Abortion Pills as Controlled Substances](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/louisiana-law-classifies-abortion-pills-as-controlled-substances/): Louisiana recently passed a law with significant implications for women's healthcare access. This law classifies the medications used in medication abortion as controlled substances. 
- [Attorney Tommy Dewey Earns Prestigious "Lawyer Scientist" Designation](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/attorney-tommy-dewey-earns-prestigious-lawyer-sc/): We are delighted to announce that Partner Tommy Dewey has successfully completed Gas Chromatography training at the Axion Labs and Training Institute in Chicago. This achievement is a pivotal moment in Dewey's professional journey, enhancing the capabilities of Dewey & Braud Law, LLC.
- [How New Laws Going Into Effect in Louisiana in August Could Impact You](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/how-new-laws-going-into-effect-in-louisiana-in-a/): In August, several new laws are going into effect in Louisiana. Laws change more often than many realize. In some instances, these changes are minor, but in other cases, existing laws are drastically changed. New laws are added annually and can have a huge impact on our lives. It’s important to stay current with new legislation, because the impact on your life can be severe.
- [Louisiana Legislature Reduces Penalties for Certain Marijuana Crimes](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/louisiana-legislature-considering-drug-charge-ex/): In March of last year, Shreveport City Council voted to pass an ordinance that reduced the penalty for marijuana possession under 14 grams, on first and subsequent convictions.
- [Louisiana DWI Convictions & Car Insurance Rates](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/louisiana-dwi-convictions-car-insurance-rates/): Under Louisiana Code of Law § 14:98, it is illegal to operate a vehicle, aircraft, or vessel of any kind while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both drugs and alcohol. Drivers cannot have a BAC of 0.08% or higher. If you are convicted of driving while intoxicated (DWI), you can face serious social and financial consequences—and not just because of the hefty fines imposed by the Court. A conviction can cause your car insurance rates to drastically increase.
- [What Are 9 Tips to Best Avoid a Holiday DWI?](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/what-are-9-tips-to-best-avoid-a-holiday-dwi/): The holiday season is here, meaning DWI charges will likely increase. 285 DWI-related deaths occurred during Christmas and New Year’s in 2018, all of which were preventable. This explains why police officers are extremely vigilant for intoxicated drivers during the holiday seasons. Parties, gatherings, and other holiday festivities often involve alcohol and if you don’t make good decisions about going home safely, you may end up behind bars, be subject to steep fines, and lose your driver’s license.
- [Domestic Violence During the Holidays & COVID-19](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/domestic-violence-during-the-holidays-covid-19/): Louisiana ranks #5 in the US for female homicides according to a 2020 report by the Violence Policy Center and 92% of all female victims in the US were murdered by a man they know in 2018. The numbers show that domestic violence incidents can easily turn into a domestic homicide if a firearm is present, increasing the risk of homicide by 500%. However, most domestic violence cases involve physical violence by one intimate partner; 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men in the US.
- [LA Supreme Court Closure Update](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/la-supreme-court-closure-update/): The LA Supreme Court updated their 3/20/2020 order on 3/23/20 in response to the "Stay at Home Order" issued by Governor Edwards on March 22, 2020/ ordered, "
- [What Missing Your Louisiana DUI Court Hearing Could Mean for Your Future](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/what-missing-your-louisiana-dui-court-hearing-co/): If you were arrested for a DUI, your first court appearance will be an arraignment. You will be notified of the official charges against you at arraignment. If you miss your DUI court hearing in Louisiana, your failure to appear in court will likely result in an issuance of a bench warrant for your arrest. The bench warrant will be a public record and most law enforcement agencies will have access to it. Additionally, anyone with access to a public records database, like a landlord or employer, may also see your bench warrant through a third-party background check.
- [How Soon Should I Hire a Defense Lawyer After Being Arrested for a DWI?](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/how-soon-should-i-hire-a-defense-lawyer-after-be/): Being arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a terrifying experience and, frequently, people are overwhelmed with the process of hiring an attorney. Some may think an attorney is not necessary until the court date. Unfortunately, this is a big mistake! The sooner you hire an attorney, the better your chances will be of achieving a favorable resolution and not losing your driver’s license. Although quite a bit of time might pass before your court date, this will give your attorney the opportunity to carefully develop a strategy for your case.
- [Should Someone Enter into a DWI Pre-Trial Intervention Program?](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/should-someone-enter-into-a-dwi-pre-trial-interv/): In Louisiana, some individuals charged with DWIs may be eligible for a pre-trial intervention (or pre-trial diversion) program, which is offered by most District Attorney’s Offices and/or City Prosecutor’s Offices.
- [What to Expect When Bonding Someone Out of Jail](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/what-to-expect-when-bonding-someone-out-of-jail/): Sometimes, our loved ones end up in trouble and call for help. If you have to bail your friend or family member out of jail, you must prepare for this significant legal responsibility. The process of bailing someone out of jail can be stressful, though it doesn’t have to be. Remember, if you have an arrest warrant, you will not be able to bond someone out of jail, because you will also be arrested. Also, each parish or city jail has its own unique procedures and we recommend you call the facility to inquire about significant details regarding your loved one’s case.
- [Domestic Abuse: Collateral Consequences](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/domestic-abuse-collateral-consequences/): Domestic Abuse cases are serious for multiple reasons. First, violence against family members or partners/ ex-partners is a nationwide problem. Louisiana is ranked 2nd in the nation for homicides of women committed by men. The rate of female victims killed by male offenders is up for the fifth, consecutive year. 69% of those homicides involved firearms.
- [Clean Up Your Criminal Record with an Expungement!](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/clean-up-your-criminal-record-with-an-expungemen/): For all information on this subject, check out the expungement statutes in The Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure, Articles 971-996. The Articles include definitions of terms, eligibility information and a description of the forms required for filing. You can access the LA Criminal Code online here.
- [Felony Charge Dismissed](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/felony-charge-dismissed/): In August, 2017, Dewey & Braud Law was contacted by a worried mother regarding a new felony case against her son. Her twenty year old son was in custody on a motion to revoke from Lafourche Parish caused by a new pending charge in Iberville Parish. Dewey & Braud handles cases throughout the State of Louisiana. The client was pleased with his representation in Lafourche, but the mother was looking for a criminal defense attorney to zealously represent her son in Iberville parish on a Possession of Schedule II offense. Attorney Hallye Braud visited the client in jail in Catahoula Parish to get the case facts from client and begin developing the defense. Attorney Tommy Dewey reviewed the offense report against client and began negotiations with the Iberville Parish District Attorney’s Office. The evidence against the client was weak and the facts within the officer’s report seemed improbable. Mr. Dewey pointed out the holes in the DA’s case and ultimately achieved a dismissal of the felony drug possession. Client pled to a lesser misdemeanor of possession of drug paraphernalia in early October, 2017 and was released from his Iberville Parish hold the same day.
- [Do I Need a Lawyer?](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/do-i-need-a-lawyer/): Do I need a lawyer?
- [Don’t just pay your ticket!](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/blog/don-t-just-pay-your-ticket/): After you receive a traffic ticket from an officer, it may be your gut reaction to get your checkbook out and send in your money. But, if you simply pay the fine, there will be a conviction for that traffic violation on your driving record. Though Louisiana doesn’t use a point system for your driving record as some states do, most moving violations will be viewed by your insurance company and can cause you problems. For example, pleading guilty to certain traffic violations can cause driver’s license suspensions. Simply paying your ticket is a guilty plea which could trigger the Office of Motor Vehicles to suspend your driver’s license.

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## Team
- [Tanya LeDoux](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/our-team/tanya-ledoux/)
- [Hallye C. Braud](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/our-team/hallye-c-braud/)
- [A. Thomas Dewey](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/our-team/a-thomas-dewey/)

## Practice Areas
- [FAQs](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/criminal-defense/expungements/faqs/)
- [Possession](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/criminal-defense/drug-crimes/possession/)
- [Theft](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/criminal-defense/theft/)
- [White Collar Crimes](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/criminal-defense/white-collar-crimes/)
- [Aggravated Assault](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/criminal-defense/violent-crimes/aggravated-assault/)
- [Vehicular Homicide](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/vehicular-homicide/): Being charged with vehicular homicide is a serious matter that can have life-altering consequences. The criminal defense attorneys at Dewey & Braud Law, LLC are here to offer the robust defense you need. Our team understands the complexities of vehicular homicide cases and is prepared to fight for your rights and your future.
- [DWI](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/dwi/): In Louisiana, it is illegal to drive a car while under the influence of alcohol. Louisiana law states that having a blood alcohol percentage of 0.08 or higher will result in a DWI charge. If you were arrested under suspicion of DWI, you could face having your vehicle confiscated, jail sentencing, license suspension, and more. Let the Baton Rouge criminal defense lawyers at Dewey & Braud Law, LLC help you fight the charges. These charges may have penalties that will effect your future and freedom.
- [Administrative Driver's License Hearing](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/dwi/administrative-driver-s-license-hearing/): When you are arrested for a DWI in Louisiana, you immediately have two cases against you. The first is the driver's license part of your case. The second is the criminal case, which will be prosecuted by the City Attorney or District Attorney's Office. The LA Office of Motor Vehicles will attempt to suspend your driving privileges if you either failed a breath test (.08 or greater), refused to provide a sample of your breath or blood when requested by a law enforcement officer, and/or if you have waited longer than 30 days to create a Louisiana DMV hearing appointment.
- [Criminal Defense](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/criminal-defense/): When you are charged with a crime, the window to protect your future begins to close. The criminal laws in Louisiana can be tough on those accused of crimes, making it crucial that you find a way to defend yourself and avoid a conviction. 
- [Truck Accidents](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/personal-injury/truck-accidents/): Trucking accidents can result in devastating consequences, including severe injuries, significant property damage, and emotional trauma. If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident, you understand the overwhelming challenges that follow, from mounting medical bills to dealing with insurance companies. 
- [Personal Injury](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/personal-injury/): Were you injured because someone else behaved recklessly? Medical bills can be expensive, and that’s in addition to the costs of missing work and repairing any other damages. You need an aggressive team on your side who can fight the insurance companies and help you obtain the full and fair compensation to which you are entitled. At Dewey & Braud Law, LLC, we understand the challenges that come with building an effective case. Our Baton Rouge personal injury lawyers can help you prove the fault of the other party and obtain needed coverage.
- [Car Accidents](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/personal-injury/car-accidents/): Being involved in a car accident is one of the most stressful and potentially traumatic experiences a person can go through. It is difficult, in that moment, to know exactly what steps to take to best protect you, your loved ones, and your property. 
- [Assault & Battery](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/criminal-defense/assault-battery/): Making any unwanted physical contact with another person may be against the law in Louisiana. While assault and battery are often used together, they are not the same thing. While battery is defined as “the intentional use of force or violence upon the person of another,” assault is merely the threat of violence toward another, to the point that they fear for their safety. If you were accused of either of these crimes, the consequences can be severe. Make sure you have help from an experienced Baton Rouge criminal defense lawyer. Call Dewey & Braud Law, LLC for over 25 combined years of proven results.
- [Drug Crimes](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/criminal-defense/drug-crimes/): Louisiana may be famous for its relaxed approach to some laws, such as open-container alcohol regulations and drive-thru daiquiris, but drug laws in the state are among the toughest in the nation. Whether it’s possessing Schedule 1 drugs or a first-time felony drug charge, penalties are harsh and can have lasting consequences on your life. If you’ve been charged with a drug-related offense, reaching out to experienced Baton Rouge criminal defense lawyers is critical.
- [Sex Crimes](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/criminal-defense/sex-crimes/): Facing a sex crime charge is among the gravest legal charges one can encounter. If you or a loved one is accused of sexual assault, rape, or any other sex-related offense, it's imperative to consult with a defense attorney immediately.
- [Violent Crimes](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/criminal-defense/violent-crimes/): Very few crimes hold the same weight that homicide charges do. These convictions are some of the most serious and heavily penalized crimes that a person can be accused of.  If you are facing accusations of homicide, it is crucial to secure the representation of a skilled criminal defense attorney without delay. A conviction for homicide carries severe consequences that can irrevocably alter your future, including lengthy prison sentences or even the death penalty.
- [Domestic Violence](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/criminal-defense/domestic-violence/): In Louisiana, domestic abuse can be a felony or misdemeanor depending on the circumstances involved in the abuse and whether the defendant has prior convictions for the same charge. If you have been convicted of a domestic violence prior then your new domestic violence conviction has a much higher chance of being turned into a felony domestic violence charge.
- [Civil Service Defense](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/criminal-defense/civil-service-defense/): Being employed by the government can mean sometimes being put in situations where you aren’t sure about what to do. If you were charged with a crime as a result, you cannot afford to wait for things to play out in your favor. You need help from an experienced Baton Rouge criminal defense lawyer who can help you prove your innocence and avoid having your career destroyed. These matters are time-sensitive. Tommy Dewey at Dewey & Braud Law, LLC can work with you to review the charges against you and help you protect your future.
- [Expungements](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/criminal-defense/expungements/): People make mistakes. If you were arrested and prosecuted, those mistakes will show up on your criminal record and make it harder to find employment, housing, and loan opportunities. If this is your situation, Dewey & Braud Law, LLC wants to help you explore the possibility of expungement. In Louisiana, the law provides for certain case information to be removed from a person’s visible criminal record. Our Baton Rouge criminal defense lawyers can help you find out if you are eligible for this relief.
- [DWI Vehicular Negligent Injuring & Homicide](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/dwi/dwi-vehicular-negligent-injuring/): DWI charges are harsh enough, but if a DWI resulted in an injury or death, the penalties are more severe. You can’t depend on just any legal team to protect your best interests in this type of case. You need award-winning lawyers who can compel a jury to believe you are innocent through effective defense strategies and articulate communication.
- [Felony DWI - 3rd and More](https://www.deweybraudlaw.com/dwi/felony-dwi/): Your driving privileges are not the only thing that will be taken away upon a felony DWI conviction. You may lose your freedom, job, relationships and positive reputation. Few things are more important than your liberties and livelihood, so it’s crucial to protect them at all costs.