Is a DUI Lawyer the New Must-Have Accessory in Hollywood?

Most celebrities have their stylist, personal shopper, agent, and now their DUI lawyer programmed on their speed dial. It seems that many of those who star in films or grace the stage can't get behind the wheel of a car without first imbibing some alcoholic beverages. There are plenty of lessons to be learned from these matinee idols including the importance of showing up to court dates, obeying orders from the judge, and refraining from violating probation. Check out the fate of these familiar faces that got caught in the act and paid dearly for it.

Paris Hilton

In 2006 the hotel heiress was pulled over under suspicion of driving under the influence. A breathalyzer test revealed an intoxication level of .08%, which was above the legal limit. Her punishment was suspension of her driver's license, but the situation began spiraling out of control when she continued to rack up driving offenses included a charge of recklessness and driving with a suspended license. Because she never seemed to learn a lesson, and the public was becoming agitated with her antics, Paris was eventually sentenced to serve 45 days in jail for violating her probation. The sentencing didn't suit her, so she hired another DUI lawyer to help her appeal the decision ... which didn't work.

Mel Gibson

2006 was the year to be a celebrity DUI lawyer. Mel Gibson was not only caught over the legal limit, but managed to tank his already rocky career and reputation further into a hole. During his arrest, he made several prejudiced remarks to the police officer involved. Nobody was amused with his drunken and unacceptable behavior. Fortunately for him, he was sentenced to three years of probation and an alcohol rehabilitation program. However, his most recent film was considered a box office flop. Coincidence? A good lesson to be learned is to keep your mouth shut during an arrest.

Lindsay Lohan

The young actress is the Hollywood poster child for what happens to your career after multiple brushes with the law. Ms. Lohan was arrested on two separate occasions for driving under the influence in 2007, amongst other charges. During her second arrest, she refused to take any field sobriety tests. The police then had the right to take her to the station for a BAC (blood alcohol test) which she failed. Due to her unreliability (she has failed to show up in court many times) and constant legal battles, she is shunned by many in the industry and has few job opportunities.

Chris Klein

You may not recognize the name, but you'd know his face from the American Pie franchise. In 2010, he was arrested for a second offense after blowing .2 into a breathalyzer after being pulled over on a Los Angeles highway. That is nearly double the legal limit in the state. A few days later he checked himself into a celebrity rehab program in hopes of kicking the habit. Perhaps getting sober may also help him kick start a flailing career as well.