I'll tell you. I'm an attorney in Texas. It's sounds like the consequences for being intoxicated in your state is overkill.
In Texas, as long as you have a clean record, you really will only get charged with public intox. That's pretty much the worst you will get. BUT you will be placed in the tank for sure. It's good to have good PRIVATE council too. ( doesn't hurt).

I've ridden one too many times, including last night, intoxicated and I've spoken to officers while intoxicated, and they just think we are stupid. (which we are).

I'm really sorry you had to go through that entire senario. It's very stressful.

Always have an attorney in your pocket. It doesn't cost much to retain one per year.

As for the lights. You are 100% correct. They are very important, not only for safety but also it gives police less reason to pull you over. In Dallas we have to wear helmets, I don't but that would be a great reason for me to get hassled.

I've got a planet bike as well. And a Blackburn in the front. Saved my ass many times.

Socks