Navigating the legal landscape after a DUI charge can be daunting. As private DUI lawyers, we understand the intricacies of DUI law and the immense stress that comes with facing such charges. This blog post aims to shed light on the rights you have and the defenses that may be available to you.
Know the Penalties
A first-time DUI offense can lead to significant consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. The specifics will vary based on your location and the circumstances of your arrest. It’s crucial to understand these penalties so you can make informed decisions about your case.
Field Sobriety Tests: To Take or Not to Take?
Field sobriety tests are commonly administered during a traffic stop to assess impairment. However, the accuracy and admissibility of these tests can be contested. You have the right to refuse these tests, but this decision can come with its own set of repercussions.
Blood Alc*hol Limits and Tests
Understanding blood alc*hol limits is key to recognizing the severity of a DUI charge. Different limits apply to commercial drivers, individuals under 21, and those with prior offenses. Chemical, blood, and breath tests are used to measure BAC, but each has its own reliability issues and rights associated with them.
Building Your Defense
As private DUI lawyers, we’re here to help you build a strong defense. Whether it’s challenging the traffic stop’s legality, the accuracy of BAC tests, or negotiating for reduced penalties, we’re committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome.
What are some common DUI defenses?
Common DUI defenses typically involve questioning the legality of the traffic stop, the accuracy of the sobriety tests, and the arrest procedures.
Here are some of the most common defenses:
Improper Stop: This defense argues that the officer did not have a valid reason to make the initial traffic stop.
Inaccuracy of Sobriety Testing: Challenges the validity of field sobriety tests and the accuracy of breathalyzer or blood tests.
Lack of Probable Cause: Claims that the officer did not have sufficient reason to believe the individual was driving under the influence.
Affirmative Defenses: These include necessity, duress, entrapment, mistake of fact, and involuntary intoxication, where the defendant admits to DUI but provides a justification.
Each defense is highly dependent on the specifics of the case, and a skilled DUI lawyer can provide guidance on the best strategy to use.
Conclusion
If you’re facing DUI charges, it’s essential to seek the expertise of private DUI lawyers. With a deep understanding of the law and a commitment to your defense, we can navigate this challenging time together.