Any result above 0.08 percent automatically labels the subject as drunk. However you need to be aware of the laws in your state, since refusal may seem suspicious and your license may be revoked on the spot.
People usually know that they are well within their rights to hire a lawyer if they are charged with drunk driving. However they often don't realize just what a lawyer can do for them. Whether your case is simple or not,
you can benefit from the services of a lawyer.
What is the best that a lawyer can do for you?
Of course the best thing that can happen is that your lawyer gets the charge against you dismissed. There have been cases in which the offender has had a blood alcohol content (BAC) over the limit of 0.08 percent, yet they have been able to obtain a verdict of 'not guilty'.
How is BAC measured?
There is a chemical test that the police station will carry out to determine the alcohol content in your blood. This is the only evidence that is required for conviction in a case of drunken driving. Any result above 0.08 percent automatically labels the subject as drunk.
Passed the BAC? You may be made to undergo field sobriety tests.
If the officer that has pulled you over is not convinced of your sobriety, he may also administer the field sobriety test. This is a slightly controversial series of physical tests that the officer may use to observe the candidate before making an arrest. You are within your rights to refuse to take the test. However you need to be aware of the laws in your state, since refusal may seem suspicious and your license may be revoked on the spot.
What if you fail the field sobriety tests?
It is not so well known that people can be charged and convicted with drunken driving even with less than 0.08 percent BAC. In such situations it is the officer's observations that are taken as evidence. A good lawyer will know how to find instances in which procedures have been incorrectly. They will know how to challenge evidence that has been collected illegally. If they are successful, your case may be dismissed altogether, or you may get a reduced sentence.
DUI penalties can be heavy
But an experienced lawyer may be able to get them reduced. Penalties may be harsh even for first time offenders. These may include a suspension of license, jail time, and also the installation of devices for interlocking your ignition.
A good lawyer can get the penalties reduced
An experienced lawyer will be aware of the alternatives that you can take advantage of in place of the penalties given to you. For instance, work service may be an alternative to time in jail, a suspended license may be converted to a license that is restricted.
Now that you know how you can benefit from hiring a DUI attorney, Salisbury MD directory ads can be a good place to start looking for professionals. Remember, however, to look for someone with experience as they will be able to handle obstacles in your case better than inexperienced ones.
