Roger Clinton, half-brother of former President Bill Clinton, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence on Sunday night. He was released on Monday morning after posting $15,000 bail and is scheduled to be in court in September.
The indictment and court hearing provides a public relations headache to former President Clinton’s wife Hillary, who is in the midst of her own presidential campaign and faces a pivotal day on the trail in California’s primary election to be held tomorrow.
Roger Clinton’s legal struggles in the past have been well-publicized, and provided a good deal of trouble for former President Clinton during his term of office. He was convicted in 1985 for drug crimes, for which he was pardoned by his half-brother before leaving office. He was charged and convicted of DUI violation in 2001, as well.
Mr. Clinton & California’s Look-Back Period
The good news is that, in this instance, Mr. Clinton’s previous DUI conviction cannot be held against him for consideration for repeat-offender status. California’s look-back period for DUI convictions is 10 years, meaning his 2001 conviction is too old to still be held against him. However, that being said, that charge will likely still play a role in this new conviction, as it does still remain on his record, and it will be up to the judge to decide if punishments closer to the maximum should be allowed.
Like anyone else accused of drunk driving, Mr. Clinton is likely seeking the counsel of a Los Angeles DUI defense attorney. It is highly advisable that anyone in his circumstances should seek the services of strong legal counsel that can help you determine the best course of action for your case.
Hutton & Wilson is a Los Angeles DUI law firm based in Pasadena that has helped hundreds of clients navigate through the often-overwhelming legal process associated with a DUI charge. With a high success rate and numerous memberships in exclusive law associations, they have proven time and time again that know what it takes to protect their clients’ rights and interests before the law.
Call Hutton & Wilson today at (626) 397-9700 or contact their Pasadena law office online to schedule a free initial consultation.