Facing charges for driving under the influence is a serious matter and can be a daunting experience for anyone. After all, a DUI conviction carries long-lasting consequences that can significantly impact your life.
While it is easy to feel helpless in such situations, it is important to remember that the law provides several potential defenses that can help your case. Understanding the law and the common defenses in DUI cases may help you gain control over your situation.
Questioning the legality of the stop
One of the common defenses in DUI cases revolves around the initial traffic stop. For a DUI stop to be legal, law enforcement must have a valid reason to pull you over. If a traffic stop occurs without this justification, the court may deem any evidence inadmissible.
Right to contact an attorney
Your right to contact an attorney during police investigations is fundamental in legal proceedings. If the officers did not allow you to speak to a lawyer during your DUI investigation, this oversight could significantly weaken the prosecution’s case against you.
Challenging the validity of field sobriety tests
U.S. law enforcement commonly uses field sobriety tests to determine whether a driver is impaired during a stop. However, these tests are not always reliable. Results can be subjective, relying on the officer’s interpretation, the driver’s physical conditions and the environment at the scene. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has even estimated that these tests are only 65% to 77% accurate.
Facing a DUI charge is undoubtedly a critical moment, but it is important to remember that it does not have to define your future. With the right knowledge and legal support, you can confidently navigate this situation and minimize its effects on your life.