""The truck driver union is actively mediating for Peter and is willing to provide him with free legal aid.
Furthermore, the union's cooperating attorney believes that the police had coerced Peter into taking a breathalyzer test at the scene, and even conducted a blood test without his knowledge."
Although Peter drove under the influence, he had the right to refuse the breathalyzer test or blood test requested by the police.
Even if refusing to cooperate with the police meant his driver's license would be revoked, that was his right.
If the union's attorney could find enough evidence, they might even overturn the police's test results, making a conviction even less likely.
Of course, this was the best-case scenario, and things usually wouldn't go so smoothly.
"The trouble is that Peter seemed not to be very clear-headed during that period, and he himself couldn't remember the police's actions at the time. Hence his account is vague, but the attorney is actively communicating with him about this."
Dean knew it would be like this, but there was still room for maneuver. Otherwise, once the serious charges were established, not only would he face prison time for two years, but he would also have to pay a hefty fine.
Where would he get the money, and based on his impressions of his dad over the past month, it seemed unlikely that his dad had any savings either.
Ever since his mother, Katelin, left, Peter had become dispirited, with his life completely unplanned.
Without the invisible thread that once held him, Peter, who had only liked to drink moderately, began to keep company with alcohol, drinking heavily every day. That's what led to the current trouble.
Speaking of money...
"Uncle Frank, about the compensation after my father injured someone..."
"Packard Electronics has already paid twelve thousand US dollars in compensation and has received forgiveness from the farmer, who will not sue.
The consequence is that Peter has been fired, and all his pension, his retirement fund, is gone."
Well, at least there's no need to worry about the huge compensation for now, Dean optimistically thought.
"According to attorney Wedner's advice, a happy, united family is more likely to garner the sympathy of the jury.
Especially you, Dean, as a well-known prodigy in the community, you're a key figure for the jury, so it would be best if you met him."
With that, Frank handed Dean a business card, which the latter glanced over briefly – Matthew Wedner Law Office.
"The union's cooperating attorney is also a native of Youngstown." Frank added thoughtfully.
"Okay, I'll meet with him." Dean nodded in understanding.
The lawyer's advice was, of course, the most valuable at the moment, especially since it was free.
"Dean, besides your father's issue, there might be another matter..."
"That's enough, Frank, let Dean get some rest tonight; he's already exhausted." Aunt Rachel interrupted Frank before he could finish.
"You're right" Frank spread his hands, "have a peaceful night then." He stood up, patted Dean on the shoulder, and headed to his own room.
"Dean, let's focus on sorting out Peter's issue first, we can discuss the rest later." Aunt Rachel gave Dean a reassuring smile.
"Okay, Aunt Rachel." Dean needed time to digest the information he had just received, so he didn't dwell on Frank's half-finished sentence.
After saying goodnight to them, Dean headed upstairs to Jerry's room, where the two brothers would be sharing a room for the night.
Viewed through the window on the stairs, Youngstown at night seemed rather quiet. When Dean looked out, most of the area seemed to be yawning deeply.
An era of scarce entertainment, yet Dean remained optimistic, scarcity also meant opportunities.
----
PS: The contract signing is on Monday; for these two days, four thousand updates. After signing, six thousand."