Field Sobriety Lawyer Phoenix
Field Sobriety Tests in Phoenix, AZ
After pulling a suspect on suspicion of drunk driving, there are several tests that can be conducted by the arresting officer to determine the level of impairment of the suspect. One of the first steps in this process is what is known as a field sobriety test. These are various tests that are administered after an individual is pulled over for suspected drunk driving.
According to Arizona State laws, it is required that anyone that is stopped by a law officer must take the test or else they could be acting against implied consent laws. Get in touch with a DUI attorney immediately following your arrest if you have been charged with a DUI based off a field sobriety test result.
Three Standardized Procedures
While the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration has created guidelines regarding these tests, they are largely subjective and hardly scientific. Usually, the results of these tests are left completely up to the opinion of the officer and if they are not performed exactly per the guidelines of the NHTSA, the results can be skewed.
Some of the most common types of field sobriety test include:
- The One-Leg Stand – In this test, the suspect will have to stand on one foot with the other foot raised six inches off the ground. While counting to ten out loud, they will have to look down, point their toe out and keep arms at their side. Stopping, putting your foot down, forgetting to count out loud or using arms for balance will all be counted against you.
- The Walk and Turn – This test requires the suspect to walk on a line, imaginary or physical, with heel-to-toe steps. After nine steps, the suspect will pivot, and walk back on that same line. Not staying balanced, stepping off the line or taking the wrong amount of steps are all strikes against the suspect.
- Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus – During this test, the arresting officer will hold a pen or light up and will ask the suspect to follow its motion. If their eyes begin to jerk involuntarily, they can take this as a clue that the client is under the influence of alcohol.
Call a Phoenix DUI Attorney from Knowles Law Firm, PLC!
The problem with field sobriety tests is that they are not scientific – even a sober person can fail them under certain situations. Knowles Law Firm, PLC recognizes the weaknesses in a DUI case that rests on a "failed" field sobriety test. Led by a former police officer, the team has an in-depth understanding of the DUI arrest process. They know the questions to ask and they know the defenses to utilize.
Should you choose to work with a DUI defense lawyer from the firm, you will be able to be confident knowing that every possible step will be taken to helping you obtain the just outcome that you deserve.
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