Defending a DUI in Will County
Many people who are arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Illinois automatically assume that their guilt has been proven and they will be convicted. The truth is that most clients are able to successfully fight their DUI charges.
When a person is arrested for any kind of alleged DUI offense, it is important to get an experienced criminal defense attorney involved in the case as soon as possible. There are a variety of defenses a person may be able to use depending on their situation. Here are some of the ways to contest your DUI charge in Illinois.
Possible Defenses Against DUI Charges
For someone to be convicted of driving under the influence, they must be proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Many DUI defense strategies involve casting doubt on the defendant’s guilt by pointing out weaknesses or inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case against the defendant. Anything from mistakes during the breath test to incorrect police procedure during the arrest may be used to defend against a conviction.
Breathalyzer Test Errors
Many people assume that failed breath tests is an automatic conviction, but there are actually multiple reasons breath test results could end up being declared inadmissible in court. Police officers may not have calibrated testing devices properly, people may have had residual alcohol in their mouths, or there could be other underlying issues with software or equipment.
Illegal Traffic Stops
The basis of every DUI Arrest began with probable cause for the stop. If the court believes that your arrest lacks probable cause, the entire case can be dismissed even if you are above the legal limit.
Field Sobriety Tests
When a police officer suspects someone of drunk driving, their training requires them to ask the person to perform field sobriety tests. These tests are used to assess the driver’s intoxication level, however, these tests are not foolproof and many officers fail to follow NHTSA guidelines. If you choose to take these tests, your performance on these tests will be reviewed by a judge as a backstop to the officer’s decision to arrest you.
Medical or Health Issues
Many people are assumed to be intoxicated at a time when they are in fact dealing with some kind of health problem or medical condition. Different medical conditions can affect your field sobriety testing or your general interaction with the officer and can be used to your advantage.
Contact a DUI Defense Lawyer
Were you recently arrested for DUI in Will or Grundy County? You will want to speak with Will County DUI defense attorney Jack L. Zaremba for a free assessment of your case. Mr. Zaremba has decades of experience helping people defend themselves against drunk driving allegations and other criminal offenses. Call 815-740-4025 or contact us online to receive a free consultation.