In defending a client against Michigan DUI and OWI charges, a defense lawyer will need to use his or her knowledge of Michigan drunk driving laws and information regarding the case in particular in order to prove innocence or lack of evidence to make a conviction. Field sobriety tests and their results often play a major role in this.
An experienced lawyer will call into question the arresting officer's description of events and will challenge physical evidence. The description of events may include the officer's report regarding the defendants performance on field sobriety tests, as well as testimony regarding the initial police stop and the arrest. Physical evidence may include a video of field sobriety testing and blood or breath test results.
Did you fail a Field Sobriety Test? Contact a Lawyer at Our Firm Today!
Field sobriety tests are not known for complete accuracy. These tests are conducted to determine whether a driver is intoxicated. That is, whether his or her physical and/or mental abilities are impaired due to alcohol or drugs. An officer's evaluation of these tests may be subjective, and there are also a number of factors which may influence a driver's performance on these tests.
Whether you have submitted to the walk and turn, one legged stand or horizontal gaze nystagmus test, there are a number of factors which may have caused the officer to determine you failed. These include:
- Weariness
- Nervousness
- Allergies
- A physical injury
- Poor road or weather conditions
- Poor instructions by the officer
- Illness
- Obesity
- Old age
An experienced lawyer can work to prove that a factor other than intoxication led to your poor performance on field sobriety tests. Your lawyer may even be able to prove that you did not actually fail a field sobriety test by evaluating the video. Whatever your particular situation may be, your lawyer will need to begin work immediately to defend your rights against a Michigan DUI or OWI conviction and penalties.
Contact Michigan DUI attorneys at Kronzek & Cronkright if you are facing OWI or DUI charges due to failed field sobriety tests. Call us today at 1-866-766-5245!
