Understanding Your Rights In DUI Cases
Being pulled over for a suspected DUI can be a stressful and confusing experience. Law enforcement officers will assess your behavior, conduct tests and determine whether to make an arrest. A skilled DUI defense attorney can examine the details of your case, challenge the evidence and provide legal guidance to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
At Gammon, McFall & Villarreal, we have been serving clients in Cedartown and Rome, Georgia, since 1970. Our team of experienced DUI lawyers understands the complexities of DUI laws and defense strategies. We carefully review each case to identify errors in procedure, violations of rights and opportunities to challenge the charges. Whether you are facing your first DUI or have prior offenses, we are dedicated to providing strong legal representation to protect your future.
Traffic Stops And Your Legal Rights
A police officer must have reasonable suspicion to initiate a DUI traffic stop. This means they must observe a traffic violation or suspicious driving behavior, such as:
- Swerving
- Erratic speed changes
- Running a red light
If an officer did not have a valid reason to stop you, any evidence gathered may be inadmissible in court. Our experienced DUI attorney can review the circumstances of your stop to determine if it was legal.
Should You Take Field Sobriety Tests?
During a DUI stop, officers may ask you to perform field sobriety tests (FSTs) to assess impairment. Common tests include:
- Walk-and-turn
- One-leg stand
- Horizontal gaze nystagmus
In Georgia, you are not legally required to take field sobriety tests. A DUI lawyer can challenge the administration and interpretation of these tests.
Breathalyzer And Chemical Tests
Breathalyzer and chemical tests measure your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). Georgia’s implied consent law requires drivers to submit to chemical testing if lawfully arrested for DUI.
Refusing these tests can result in an automatic license suspension and other penalties. However, test results are not always accurate.
A skilled DUI attorney can investigate how the tests were conducted. If procedural errors or inaccuracies are found, we can challenge the validity of the test results in court.
Protect Your Future
If you are facing a DUI charge in Cedartown or Rome, Georgia, Gammon, McFall & Villarreal is prepared to fight for your rights and build a strong defense strategy. DUI convictions can lead to severe penalties, including fines, license suspension and possible jail time
Call 770-574-4925 today or email us to book a free consultation.