Samdperil & Welsh -

Study: Field Testing Kits Render False Positives for Marijuana, Cocaine

editor — Thu, 21 May 2009 11:00:27 -0400

A recent study has shown that certain drug tests of common household items, such as oregano, thyme, and patchouli, have demonstrated false positives for THC, the primary toxicant in marijuana and hashish. "False Positives, Equal False Justice" was released in March 2009. At a press conference announcing the report's release, the authors and chemists demonstrated a number of thes

Caution! Roadblocks Ahead.

editor — Tue, 12 May 2009 21:24:43 -0400

The State has spent almost $450,000.00 on a new "DUI Mobile Command Unit" and intends to get use out of it this summer. Local police have announced plans for 9 DWI roadblocks this summer, the first of which was conducted on Saturday, May 16. This is a 50% increase over the number of sobriety checkpoints in 2008. While hundreds of vehicles and passengers have been stopped, t

Restaurant and Bar Owners Beware

editor — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 16:49:28 -0400

$100,000.00 fines. Revocation of your liquor license. These are just two of the possible punishments if you own a restaurant or bar and are charged with overserving a patron. Would your business survive? For more information about the recent indictment of Margaritas restaurant in Exeter, click read more

NH DWI Penalties - Quick Reference Guide

editor — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:36:45 -0400

We understand that DWI cases can be confusing - the field tests, the alcohol testing machines, the whole process. But one of the most important things to know is how a conviction for a DWI offense might affect you. For that reason, we have put together a quick reference guide which summarizes the penalties for several DWI offenses. This information is designed to help you understand w

National Academy report addresses weakness in forensic testing.

editor — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 15:29:58 -0400

In 2009, the National Academy of Sciences issued a report critical of certain forensic testing practices. The report encourages strengthening oversight of quality control guidelines, greater proficiency testing of labratory analysts, and a need for national accreditation.

Critical Analysis of Evidence Leads to Not Guilty Verdict for Client

editor — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 15:21:24 -0500

The client was charged with attempted theft after copper pipes and other bins of metal were found removed from a plumbing van late at night. An abandoned car across the street had bins of copper pipe parts.... and the client's driver's license. Using a dog tracking team, police then located the client, approximately 2 miles away.

How will a DWI or other traffic offense affect my CDL?

editor — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 13:22:44 -0500

Alcohol is a legal substance. But state and federal rules can mandate a suspension of a commercial drivers license (CDL) even in circumstances where a person is not convicted of DWI, DUI or OUI. read more

Client Found Not Guilty of Assaulting Child

editor — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0400

Preparation is key to presenting a good defense. So is being able to present testimony from expert witnesses, such as doctors, to explain complex issues.

Do sobriety checkpoints work?

editor — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 11:09:30 -0400

On September 5, 2008, NH State Police, Portsmouth Police, and NH Liquor Commission investigators stopped 260 vehicles as part of a sobriety checkpoint (or DWI roadblock) program. The stated purpose of these stepped-up DUI patrols is to deter people from drinking and driving.

Felony Drug Charge dismissed

editor — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0400

The defendant and his roommate, both college students, were charged with manufacturing and possessing drugs. Richard Samdperil became involved before the first court appearance. He sent letters to the prosecutor touting his client's academic success and the impact a felony would have on the client's future. Attorney Samdperil also counseled the client about what he could do before t