Get Defense from a Top Scottsdale DUI Attorney
Field Sobriety Tests: An Overview
You have probably seen a person attempting to perform some type of field sobriety test before, whether on TV or on the side of the road. The person may attempt to walk in a straight line, balance on their leg, or even be asked to follow an officer's pen with their eyes only. All of these are well known field sobriety tests that can be used by police officers to gather probable cause that you were driving under the influence.
So what are your rights when it comes to field sobriety tests? This is often a complex and controversial issue. Many believe that the roadside or field sobriety tests are so subject that individuals should refuse to take them every time. While each case is different, it is important to know in what ways you can exercise your rights and avoid being treated unfairly by officers.
Charged with a DUI after a field sobriety test? Contact the Law Offices of Randall J. Craig today to receive aggressive defense on your behalf!
Types of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests
Our Scottsdale DUI lawyer understands the ins and outs of DUI law in Arizona and can help you determine whether or not your rights were violated in a roadside test or if the probable cause gathered was inaccurate. We can also help demonstrate to the court how subjective and difficult these tests are to perform correctly, even for a sober person. The Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST) includes three main components: Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus, One-Leg Stand, and Walk and Turn.
Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus
An officer will look for involuntary jerking in the eyes that happens when an eye gazes to the side, which is exaggerated when an individual is impaired. The officer will ask a person to follow a moving object to look for evidence of this.
One-Leg Stand
An individual will be asked to stand with one foot close to six inches off the ground and count for 30 seconds. During this time, an officer will look for swaying, using arms to improve balance, any hoping or use of the other foot, and other actions for evidence of impairment.
Walk and Turn
An officer will direct an individual to take 9 steps, heel-to-toe, while staying on a straight line. After that, they will turn one foot and repeat the action in the opposite direction. They will look for correct number of steps, heel-to-toe completion, and lack of balance during this test.
These tests are usually requested so that an officer can gain cause to require you to perform a breathalyzer test, which can lead to your arrest. Without this evidence, an officer may have a hard time proving your intoxication, though many take field sobriety test refusals as evidence of guilt without admission.
Defending Against SFST Results
Whether you have been arrested for refusing to perform tests or your performance was used to demonstrate probable cause for your charges, you need to take legal action right away. Our firm can review the recordings or data from your tests and the arrest process, utilizing this to build a strong defense.
Don't wait to get the defense team you need behind your case! Contact us to request a case evaluation today to get our DUI lawyer on your side.
Our Client Success Stories
-
I was charged with a DUI, Open Container, Unsafe lane change and Light on license plate out. Thanks to Randall's knowledge and expertise they were reduced to one reckless driving and a $400 fine! I can never thank him enough!!! Randall and his Staff are exceptionally caring about their clients. I felt so comfortable and right at home. They have my trust in their abilities completely!!!- Rose M. Ellis
-
This is the best lawyer ! He is very honest and trustworthy; i think this world would be a better place with more lawyers like Mr. Craig!- Former Client
-
- Claire
There is no way to THANK YOU enough for all that you've done to help Jake. All of the waiting, wondering and worry has taken a toll over the last 16 months, but to finally get some relief this morning, well I/we can't express enough gratitude for your time and help. Know how grateful & thankful we are that Jim found you and that you were willing to take this on. Jake will make the most of this gracious second chance! Please take good care.
-
Thanks so much!! Really appreciate your valued expertise and quick action.- Kevin E.
-
This guy is the best I have seen. He is very knowledgeable and efficient in what he does He was totally straight up with me and honest and got me an acquittal. Hire him. I also hear he represents the baseline killer guy.- Former Client
-
Dear citizens of the US, Mr. Randall J. Craig is the best legal attorney seen in these parts he knows what he`s talking about on my 2 charges of aggravated assault fighting he said that he would get them dismissed and his word was true and accurate i am very satisfied with the results. I would recommend his services with an AAA for turnout results. Thank you.- DW
-
Thank you Randy for the oversight you found in our case. Your diligence, professionalism and thorough work resulted in a great outcome. We are so appreciative for the final outcome you achieved in our case.- J and L
-
Randall, I can't begin to thank you enough for all the strings you pulled on my behalf. I can assure you it won't go to waste. I'm doing much better and have a great job now . Because of you, I have endless opportunities in my future.- Dillion Dygert
