DUI Client Letters

Also read Consequences to Your Job specific letters.

[CDL Driver Entered Guilty Plea to a DUI while driving his personal vehicle and Lost Ability to Drive Commercial Vehicles for a full year]

From :S.B. [via e-mail]
Sent: Saturday, September 22, 2007 10:10 AM
Subject: CDL Suspension

I got a 1st time DUI conviction in May 07, in a non-commercial vehicle, among other requirements, I got a 120 day suspension on my license, that suspension was up on 9/21/07, I did all they wanted me to do, i.e. DUI school, counseling, and even on my own did AARP driver safety program, I called Conyers to verify that I could get my CDL back and was told I had to go to Albany or Waycross, I did that and paid, and all they gave me was a regular license and was inform that my CDL is suspended till May 23, 08, all I've ever received from DDS was the 120 day suspension, nothing stating that my CDL would be suspended for a year.

What I need to know is, is there an appeal process to get this overturned, when I plead guilty I was under the assumption that this was only a judicial suspension, and that it wouldn't affect my CDL.

CONTINUED BELOW

September 22, 2007

Dear S.B.,

I cannot explain how you were under the mistaken impression about a DUI conviction NOT totally disqualifying you for a CDL permit for your license, but you virtually have no avenue to appeal. If this was on the advice of an attorney, then you may have a legal malpractice claim.

Once the guilty plea for DUI hit the record (regardless of what type of vehicle you were driving) you have no CDL privileges for 1 full year. You were eligible for a REGULAR driver’s license, and received that from the DDS office you visited.

A second DUI disqualifies you FOR LIFE.

I would not take any money from you and tell you that I (or anyone) can reinstate your CDL privileges until one full year from the plea date has expired.

William C. Head

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From: Kudzu.com under attorney ratings.
Sent: 03/16/2006
Subject: Best there is !!!!

Talk about a lawyer that stands behind what he does. This man is very honest, very hard working, and will do everything in his power to fairly represent you and your case. I was given exceptional service, never had any difficulty reaching him, or speaking directly with his staff. They were all very professional, and educated. No hidden costs or additional fees at my expense!!!

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From: Kudzu.com under attorney ratings.
Sent: 03/03/2006
Subject: Excellent DUI Defense

This firm employs some of the best DUI attorneys in the State. They are always up on the law and know what they are doing. They are pricey, at times, but the consequences of a DUI can be terrible. You get what you pay for.

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[The following letter came to Mr. Head in October of 2006 following settlement of a case that originally started in Dekalb Superior Court as two counts of felony serious injury by vehicle and other misdemeanor charges. Mr. Head’s client had driven the wrong way on I-285 before colliding into a pick-up truck and careening off into two other cars. Mr. Head’s client was severely injured, requiring nearly 5 months of recovery time. The case was resolved for three misdemeanor charges, with significant community service hours, probation for three years and no jail time.]

Bubba,

Thank you so much for all your help over the past year and a half on my case. In addition to all the obvious work you did in my case I would like to thank you for all the little stuff you did that was not so obviously seen. Especially helping me to only have to go to court 3 times (which I think is low) over a year and a half, especially when I was in Jacksonville recovering. I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome and I truly believe that my excellent circumstances are a direct result of your hard work. Thank you for caring about your work and caring about my case. Your hard work has been a blessing to my family.

With my thanks,

JH

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From: ADP
Sent: Saturday, January 06, 2007
Subject: Thank You Team Bubba!

Bubba:

I still wish the DUI had never happened in the first place but it did and your excellence and that of your team resolved it as favorably as possible.

Thank you. I am certain you know how relieved I feel.

I hope our paths cross under other, less stressful circumstances.

ADP

p.s.: Again, thank you and have a great 2007!

CONTINUED BELOW

From: William C. Head
Sent: Sunday, January 07, 2007
Subject: Thank You Team Bubba!

ADP,

Thank you for your e-mail concerning our “team” at the office. They are the secret of my success.

I am happy to have been able to work out a deal [reckless driving] for you on a difficult case (both breath test results over 0.10 grams). Good luck to you and your family in the future.

Bubba Head

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December 20, 2006

Bubba,

Let me just say, I now know first-hand why they say you're the best!
You have the best staff, the best manner, the best strategy and you produce results.

I appreciate the compassionate manner in which you and your staff handled my case. Allison and Julie were great with my ridiculous questions and last minute qualms.

Thanks for the professionalism and dignity in which you handled my case and I know is the norm for your firm. Tom Thomas really seems to like what he does-and he is good at it!

Thanks. Your experience and service will not be forgotten.

R C R

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[E-mail letter received January 25, 2006 from South Carolina attorney praising Jackie Patterson]

I am a lawyer in South Carolina and I received a traffic ticket in Atlanta in December. Mr. Jackie Patterson of your firm was nice enough to represent me for the ticket about two weeks ago and he successfully got it dismissed.

I wanted you to know how pleased I was with his services and the services of your firm. Mr. Patterson is one smart and creative lawyer and I am sure that he will be a great addition to your office.

I would appreciate it if you would pass this email along to him and express my thanks for everything he did to represent me.

Sincerely,

S B, Esq.
(Unnamed City), SC

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conditions" and ZERO points. Her license is being returned to her.]

January 21, 2006

What a relief. It's finally over! Thanks for looking out for me Bubba! Allison, Bubba told me to ask you how/when/where I go to get my driver's license back. Can you help me with that?

Bubba, your staff is amazing. They are extremely detailed, calming, knowledgeable and on top of things. Thanks for all your hard work.

God bless you,
L A O

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Praise for Peter Zeliff [e-mail dated December 19th, 2005] regarding a DUI bench trial at Atlanta Municipal Court

Dear Mr. Head,

Earlier today a year-and-a-half struggle of worry and uncertainty ended within twenty short minutes through the flawless legal defense and guidance of Peter Zeliff. Nearly two years ago I was fraudulently arrested on charges of DUI while sleeping in a vehicle in front of my girlfriend's house after a quarrel. Two Atlanta Police Department officers approached my van and preceded to draw me into numerous
probing questions which eventually led to a series of unorthodox
field sobriety tests.

I was always taught from childhood to trust and fully cooperate with police officers under all circumstances. Well sure, but I simply didn't understand the full scope of my legal rights. Soon after my encounter with the cops I was found in the Atlanta Detention Center and coerced into blowing into an Intoxilyzer machine on the grounds that I'd be freed if I blew under the legal limit. As they say, retrospect is 20/20.

I cannot tell people enough that if they are ever pulled over or approached by police that they should follow your free legal instructions that are found here on the website to the note. Cooperate respectfully but refuse to do any field tests.

Unfortunately I did not know I had such options. And certainly the police didn't phrase the law in a way that it seemed beneficial to me. Everything felt like a threat. It was a scary, scary situation.

Today Mr. Zeliff hit one out of the ballpark so to speak. Trial began and things appeared dire at first. After all, I blew and had dual charges. A DUI for allegedly being too drunk to drive and a per se DUI (for being over 0.08). Beating one seemed possible. But beating both of them seemed more than an upward climb. Mr. Zeliff has been helpful and kind throughout this slow-dragging saga. As I said earlier, we have been to court over the course of a year-and-a-half. We have been through three different judges and a few prosecutors as well during the messy merge of City Court of Atlanta and Atlanta Municipal Court.

Mr. Zeliff patiently sat and listened to prosecutors as they seemed to dig for ideas over my conviction and lead the witness only to be objected by my counsel. Mr. Zeliff took notes over everything that was said. His quick wit and knowledge proved too much for the prosecution team which consisted of four attorneys.

Zeliff's counter examination of the arresting officer uncovered hole after hole into the investigation of my alleged crime. Mr. Zeliff cited supreme court rulings that actually got my per se DUI thrown out! The Intoxilyzer results were found inadmissible! From here all that had to be done was show that the arresting officer used improper techniques in my arrest. This was simple to do once Mr. Zeliff pointed out the officer’s failure to be properly trained in DUI field evaluations and arrests.

Peter Zeliff is a star attorney with knowledge on DUI law far and beyond even the prosecution team I witnessed today. We won!!!

I cannot express the absolute joy and gratitude I feel tonight. For the first time in over a year I can go to sleep tonight without the worry of a DUI on my permanent record.

Thanks Mr. Head,
Send my regards to Peter

Sincerely,
J H

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Bubba,

Hope you have been doing well. I have a family member in need of a quality attorney who deals with corporate suits / unemployment issues etc. Basically, my uncle was injured on the job and has some issues. If you could recommend someone I would appreciate it. Thanks again for all your hard work regarding my DUI case. Best money I have spent in years.

Best Regards,
S C

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(This client had a case in a small (unnamed) Municipal Court in North
Georgia. Speeding and DUI were originally charged. Mr. Head worked with a
local attorney in the area to get the DUI dismissed.)

Tuesday, August 20, 2002 7:25 PM

Dear Mr. Head,

I wanted to thank you for referring me to Mr. [Gus] McDonald. My case was dismissed and he was very kind, quick, and efficient. I hope that I will not be needing your services in the future, however if anyone was in my situation I would recommend you and your firm.

Take Care,
A W

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[This case was a head-on collision, our client's fault, two seriously injured people in two separate vehicles]
July 15, 2002

Hello Bubba...
I'd like to thank you and your staff for all your help in my case. This accident has been a huge burden and cause of grief in my life. Your kindness and assistance has provided me with both reassurance and relief. Thank you for all your hard work and help throughout these difficult times. Also, thank you for recommending Peter Law (Civil Attorney to help him work through the liability aspects of his case) to me. He's turning out to be a huge help in the civil matters of this case.
Thanks so much again,

D.L .

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*This letter came from a person who had been convicted of DUI in
Florida. He says that he found our web site too late.

July 12, 2002

Dear Mr. Head,

Your site and the Home in it is wonderful. Thanks for making a nice
site!

As long as there are lawyers like you, the average man will still have a
chance. We need more lawyers like you who really care about "the peoples'
rights". It is heartening to see lawyers who care. I used to watch juries
on occasion and have seen many "public defenders" help prosecute their
clients. As long as there are people like you who carry the torch of truth,
there is hope. God Bless you and you family.

F.

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July 1, 2002

Bubba,

Thank you for believing in me. Good things come to those who wait, if they
work while they wait. Have a wonderful summer.

D.D.

{Client's case first 'won' after the trial judge ruled that her speedy trial
rights were violated. However, the State appealed, and the Georgia Court of
Appeals reversed that ruling. Upon return to the court, a bench trial was
conducted (no jury), and the judge found her not guilty of DUI, even
commenting on the poor quality of the Prosecution's evidence. She never was
without her license, and did not get convicted of the drunk driving charge}.

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*This letter was received through e-mail. The writer's identity has been shielded for his own protection.

Dear Mr. Head:

I am a retired Sgt. with a [Police Dept]. While there, I was an instructor in DWI apprehension and taught HGN techniques...

I am a great advocate for doing things the right way. I preach the need for probable cause to make the stop. I reluctantly concede that police officers are crossing the line in the search for the drinking driver. It does seem that very little is done to deal with those officers who make the police ranks look so bad.

I hear hundreds of tales of how people are treated or mistreated in terms of their rights when DWI arrests are being made. It really bothers me. Let me say that 95% of the tales deal with members of the [State Police]. What a poor representation of what police are SUPPOSED to be these officers are! The most important issue with the [State Police] is "station average" (the mandatory 20 tickets per month).

I would be very appreciative if you could enlighten me on what [area] was mentioned and your thoughts for correcting the improper dealings of police officers in DWI enforcement. I should mention that I have no problem with making DWI arrests. It is necessary for everyone's safety. My concern is that it be done with proper procedure and according to the law.

Thank You.

D.R.

****

May 24, 2002
10:00 AM

Subject: An Honest Cop

D.,

I appreciate your candor about "some" police practices. While I know some top-notch people in police work, I also know many whose conduct brands them as far worse criminals than my worst drinking clients. When I have a trial with a truly honest officer, I proudly tell the jury what a fine, truthful public servant he/she is, and that the trial will NOT be about me having to drag the truth out of him/her. I tell the jury that we hope to show that mistakes were made, and that this is the reason my client must be acquitted. I have had many officers come up after a trial and tell me how much they appreciated my words---whether they win or lose at trial.

The study reported in my "101 Ways" book (co-authored with Reese Joye) was a New York City study in the early 1980's, as I recall. 184,000 were stopped at roadblocks, yet only 222 arrested for DWI. A good patrol officer, well-trained would make 20 times that ratio, for the comparable time and manpower it took.

The book the quote was taken from is Joye & Lovett, The Trial Workbook, Kluwer Law Book Publishers, Inc. (1986), Section 12, p. 10-52.22 to 10.52.23. The book is out of print now. The author, Reese Joye, probably has an old file with the original study in it. He is one of the true masters of DUI practice from South Carolina. His e-mail address is: reesejoye@aol.com.

The answer to increasing the accountability and integrity of ALL police departments is VIDEOTAPE. If every officer was required to have and USE their on-board camera and body microphone, America would be a better place. The police would curtail "cowboy" tactics and blatant illegal activity, and the public would be less of a threat, since they would know that 100% is being videotaped. Only the State of South Carolina has seen fit to implement such a law--mandatory videotape. Courageous and very far-sighted.

As you are well aware, the "attitude" of the police officers in any particular department is greatly affected by the TOP people running the police force. If these people allow or encourage cheating or telling half truths, the rank-and-file follow, often going over the line on a daily basis.

If you haven't run across it yet, go to www.duigulag.com. Quite a different perspective at this web site.

WCH

****

Sir: Thank you so much for your prompt reply. It is nice to hear from
someone who truly is looking out the the little guy. I think the video rule
would be perfect. Thanks again.

D.R.

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May 20, 2002

Dear Mr. Head,

I wish to thank you for all your help in my case. I heard it from many
people and I agree; you are the best at what you do.

Sincerely,
J W R, MD.

May 21, 2002

Dear Dr. R,

Thanks for the words of praise. A great deal is owed to our excellent staff
here at Head, Thomas, Webb & Willis, LLC. They help me get more accomplished
than I ever could on my own.

I am glad that you found us. I am sorry for the inactivity and lack of
direction that you had with your prior legal counsel, before hiring us to
negotiate your DUI case to a reduced plea.
Good luck in your future as a doctor.

Bubba Head

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4-19-02

Dear Allison,

Please convey my thanks to Mr. Head for choosing to send my case to Gus McDonald. The DUI was reduced to reckless driving, and even though the penalties were the same as a DUI conviction, I was able to save my FL license. As this was my second FL DUI, I would have had my license revoked for a year with no emergency license and my real estate licenses were also in jeopardy. Gus did a GREAT job.

Thanks!

-A.C.

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2-20-02

Mr. Head:

I would like to take this opportunity to say "Thank You." It is my hopes and prayers that the next time we meet it is on a personal basis, not a client/attorney arrangement. I have been blessed and you have played a major role in a life-changing experience in my life ....

Thank you and God Bless.

MDW

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5/6/96

Dear Bubba,

This will hopefully be the last time I bore you with a letter. I wanted to sum up the results of all your and Allison’s good efforts on the resolution of my case. We settled with Cobb County. The DUI was pleaded a "nolle prosequi", the speeding and failure to maintain lane charges were merged to a reckless driving charge, pleaded "nolo contendere" (0 points on the MVR). A fine of $400 with $100 surcharge was paid to the court.

I really appreciate your help in this matter. When I first got myself into this, before contacting you, I was convinced that because I did not take the state administered test I was going to lose my license, be convicted of DUI, and I always believed I was innocent. Additionally, I knew nothing about the laws surrounding DUI in Georgia, or any other state and that made it worse. Your approach to educating your clients with your "Summary of Georgia’s DUI Law", "101 Ways to Avoid a Drunk Driving Conviction", and your videotape of "How to Deal With Stress", really helped me to understand the situation and the issues and solutions for my case. That education is a service to your clients and I would guess is a point of differentiation you have on your competition.

Allison was great! I knew what to expect because her letters to clients outlining the office and court procedures were dead on. She always returned my phone calls, and even though she is always very, very, busy she was courteous and took the time to answer my questions and listen to my issues. In terms of customer satisfaction, all the way around, you and Allison did an excellent job.

I may take you up on your offer to speak to our drivers; I’ll let you know. If Allison can, I would like her to send me about 50 of the Driver’s Right cards to distribute to our managers.

Thanks again for you help.

Sincerely

B.L.
Marietta, GA

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2/12/99

Dear Mr. Head,

I wanted to let you know how thankful I am for your help with my recent dilemma. I am very relieved to have this behind me so quickly.

I was impressed with so many things regarding you and your firm beginning with the first time we met. When I came in that Saturday, you practically met me at the door to greet me and invite me into your office. The other three attorneys I met with made me wait at least thirty minutes before they would see me and I am quite sure it was not necessary. You were a straight shooter from the very beginning and made me feel comfortable. You accommodated my financial situation even though you surely did not have the need to. Your assistant, Allison, always took my calls even if she was on another line. She was great!

You obviously need no critique from me, but my points are made to show my belief that it truly is the little things that add up that show one’s degree of success. Besides being smart and talented, you are also willing to go the extra mile. That is what I learned from you and will try to use it in my career.

Sincerely,

H.W.
Duluth, GA

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8/27/1998 (letter from a referring attorney)

Dear Mr. Head:

I am not sure why I recommended B.F. to you. I think there was some sort of conflict with my schedule and I was not able to represent him. I do want to pass a copy of his note on to you. It is rare that we get any thanks for our work in this business. Thank you for providing Mr. F. with excellent representation. I look forward to seeing you around the courthouse.

Very truly yours,

Raymond V. Giudice

Attorney at Law

[B.F’S letter, attached, dated 8/15/98 is set forth below]

8/15/98

Mr. Giudice,

I wanted to drop you a quick note to thank you for your legal advice. I went ahead and hired William C. Head for my DUI/Accident case and was found "not guilty".

Needless to say, I was ecstatic with the outcome. I can now get on with my life.

Thanks again for your honest advice.

Regards,

B.F.

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1/25/99

Bubba & Allison

THANKS! For giving me my life back. I actually feel like a normal (somewhat?) human being again after 2½ years. I can’t thank you enough.

M.B.
Decatur, GA

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1/10/98

Bubba:

Thanks for your advice & guidance. When I went to get a certified copy of the dismissal, the Clerk of Court was asking "how did you get this dismissed. This was a REFUSAL: They’re never dismissed!" My answer: Bubba Head.

R.M.
Norcross, GA

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7/18/1998

Mr. Head,

Thanks for helping me out. I really appreciate your going to bat for me.

P.L.
Tennessee

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10/26/98 (via e-mail)

Mr. Head:

I would like to thank you once again for your services and hospitality. How you won my case is not important. . . . The bottom line is that you won. I will be sure to thank Ken Bossin (the referring attorney from Ohio) also for his referral.

Have a great week.

T.N.
Ohio

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1/29/99

Mr. Head,

I met with you a couple of months ago regarding the possibility of utilizing you as counsel. After that meeting I took your advice and hired your associate, Kevin Ryan. This week, we successfully ended trial. I was very pleased with your office and Mr. Ryan’s efforts especially.

Regards,

T.T.
Atlanta, GA

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6/10/97

Mr. Head & Staff:

Thanks for everything you all did for me the last couple of months. This has really opened my eyes to what can happen in the blink of an eye. You will most definitely get referrals from me in the future.

Best wishes to you all,

H.B.
Atlanta, GA

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6/11/98

Mr. Head:

There’s a word for people like you - - - TERRIFIC! Thanks

With respect,

S.M.
Roswell, GA

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8/31/97

Dear Allison:

Just a note of thanks for enduring all my calls through the past years! God has answered my prayers and I am finally able to lay this issue to rest!

Thanks again for your help and understanding attitude. Keep that smile and tell Bubba "thanks".

Your friend,

M.H.
South Carolina

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8/15/97

Bubba:

You were great! Thank you.

T.H.N.
Atlanta, GA

 

William C. Head, Senior Partner

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