Potential Defenses Against DUI Charges
One of the most critical roles a Coral Gables DUI lawyer plays is identifying potential defenses against the charges. Each case is unique, and a tailored defense strategy can significantly affect the outcome. Here are some of the defense strategies a lawyer might use:
Challenging the Traffic Stop
A DUI case often begins with a traffic stop. However, law enforcement must have a valid reason for pulling a driver over. The concept of “probable cause” is key here, meaning the officer must observe some form of traffic violation or behavior that suggests the driver may be impaired. If the officer lacked probable cause, the traffic stop might be deemed illegal.
The court can suppress any evidence illegally gathered during the stop, including breathalyzer results, can be suppressed. Suppressing evidence means that the prosecution can’t use it against you in court, which can lead to the dismissal of the charges. A Coral Gables DUI lawyer will scrutinize the circumstances of the stop to determine if it was legally justified, promptly addressing any rights violations.
Questioning the Accuracy of BAC Tests
While commonly used, breathalyzers aren’t infallible. Several factors can affect the accuracy of BAC (blood alcohol concentration) test results. For instance, the device’s maintenance and calibration are crucial; if the breathalyzer hasn’t been properly maintained or calibrated according to manufacturer specifications, its readings might be inaccurate. Additionally, the officer administering the test must have proper training.
Any lapse in the correct procedure can lead to faulty results. Also, certain medical conditions, such as acid reflux or diabetes, can lead to artificially high BAC readings. A skilled Coral Gables DUI lawyer can investigate whether the arresting officer maintained the breathalyzer and correctly administered the test. By doing so, your attorney can challenge the validity of the BAC results, which might be central to the prosecution’s case.
Examining the Field Sobriety Test
Officers often use field sobriety tests to assess a driver’s impairment at the scene. The arresting officer may have asked you to stand on one leg, follow an object with your eyes, or walk in a straight line. However, these tests are highly subjective. Various factors that have nothing to do with alcohol or drug impairment can influence them.
For example, poor road conditions, such as uneven pavement or gravel, can affect a driver’s ability to perform these tests. Similarly, a driver’s physical health – such as age, weight, or medical conditions – can also play a role. Even the anxiety of being pulled over can lead to poor performance on these tests.
A Coral Gables DUI lawyer can challenge the reliability of field sobriety tests by highlighting these factors and casting doubt on the officer’s assessment of your impairment.
Arguing for Suppression of Evidence
Proper procedure is paramount in DUI arrests. If law enforcement officers failed to follow the correct procedures, any evidence obtained during the arrest might be inadmissible in court.
For example, if the officer failed to read your Miranda rights, the court can exclude any statements you made during or after the arrest from evidence. Similarly, if there were issues with the chain of custody regarding blood or urine samples, the court can suppress those results.
Your Rossen Law attorney will examine every aspect of the arrest to identify any procedural errors that can lead to the suppression of key evidence. Suppressed evidence can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case, sometimes resulting in reduced charges or even a dismissal.
Exploring Alternative Explanations for Behavior
Sometimes, an officer might misinterpret a driver’s behavior as a sign of intoxication when, in reality, other factors are at play. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypoglycemia, or neurological disorders, can mimic the symptoms of intoxication. Hypoglycemia, for instance, can cause confusion, slurred speech, and poor coordination – symptoms that an officer might mistake for alcohol or drug impairment. Fatigue, stress, or even a reaction to medication can also lead to behavior that appears similar to intoxication.
A Coral Gables DUI lawyer can work with medical experts to provide alternative explanations for your behavior if applicable to your case. By presenting this evidence, the attorney might be able to create reasonable doubt about your alleged impairment, potentially leading to a dismissal or reduction of charges. This approach ensures the court doesn’t wrongfully convict you due to factors beyond your control.