Driving Under the Influence (or DUI) is a criminal offense that can cast a long shadow over a person’s record if convicted. In addition to penalties like fines and jail time, many employers consider a DUI conviction as a deal-breaker when hiring staff, or even keeping them on the payroll.
But determining if a driver is truly under the influence is not as exact a science as many would want you to believe. This is why it is absolutely critical to hire legal representation like Goodman DUI to challenge the charge in court. Here are some of the ways a DUI lawyer can defend you.
Challenge field sobriety tests
One of the ways that arresting officers determine if a suspect is driving under the influence is administering a field sobriety test. These generally involve requests to test a suspect’s balance, speech, and ability to follow instruction. While field sobriety tests are helpful to law enforcement, they are ENTIRELY SUBJECTIVE, and not scientific. If the officer reports that a field sobriety test revealed signs of intoxication, it is entirely their word against the suspects, unless legal counsel intervenes on the suspect’s behalf to challenge their observations and results.
There are other subjective observations in an officer’s report that can be challenged as well, including the smell of alcohol, flushed skin appearance, and bloodshot eyes. They will also evaluate the suspect’s post-arrest statement and look for information that might help.
Challenge the accuracy of other tests and evidence
It is usually standard procedure to administer a breathalyzer or blood test to measure a suspect’s blood-alcohol level or detect other illegal substances which fall under the heading of DUI. A trained lawyer will be aware of many of the typical issues that can occur when giving a breath or blood test and will challenge to make sure they were performed correctly, with the proper equipment, and in an appropriate time frame.
Challenge administrative procedure
DUI attorneys will examine all police reports and paperwork associated with your case. In many cases, discrepancies, errors, and procedural mistakes may strengthen your case. DUI is a serious criminal charge, and procedure must be followed diligently.
If you are charged with a DUI, it does not mean you are guilty of driving under the influence. But without a DUI attorney like the lawyers at Goodman DUI, you will have a difficult time pleading and proving your innocence. It’s best to hire an attorney to examine the case and work on your behalf.
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