Field Sobriety Tests

• Eye test (HGN or horizontal gaze nystagmus) – The officer is looking for involuntary jerking of the eyes. Many people feel they “passed” this test but have no way of knowing whether they did or did not. An experienced DUI attorney can review the video and determine if the police officer conducted the test properly. If the officer did not, this test could be thrown out! This is a critical part of the field sobriety tests since it is deemed the most reliable part of the field tests.
• Walk-and-turn test – The officer is looking for your ability to follow instructions and your performance. A top DUI attorney knows that the officer must properly explain and demonstrate what to do. If the officer does not, your performance could be affected and your case strengthened!
• One-leg stand – You must hold your foot up as long as possible without putting it down while you keep your arms by your side, count out loud and not sway. The officer must properly explain that. An excellent DUI attorney makes sure the officer does that. Otherwise, you may not know how to properly perform the test and that cannot be used against you!
• Breath test – There are two breath tests, the one in the field (PBT or portable breath test) and the one at the station. The number you blew into the PBT is inadmissible in court! The one at the station is done on the Intoxilyzer 9000, is admissible and is the one often used to convict. An experienced DUI attorney can evaluate if the equipment used in your case was calibrated correctly or may have produced an inaccurate result. Other factors may affect your breath test results such as reflux, dieting, time and amount of food you ate, medical conditions, gender and weight. An experienced criminal defense attorney knows how to evaluate your case, deal with the courts, and work with the judges, police officers and the prosecutors. Hiring Lisa Wells as your DUI attorney gives you an advantage in your case.