Field Sobriety Tests: To Take Or Not To Take?
When a person is stopped by law enforcement for
driving under the influence, the police officer will want to administer the standardized
field sobriety tests to determine whether or not the person is affected by alcohol. These tests are voluntary, therefore, you have the right to refuse to take these tests in California. Field sobriety tests are mental and physical coordination tests given roadside by a police officer to a person who is exhibiting signs of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs while operating a vehicle. Performing these exercises provides
evidence that the state can use against you later on in your
court case. You may politely refuse these tests but always remember to remain cordial, professional and calm when communicating to the police officer. Avoid having an attitude or being difficult as this can make things worse. Remember that even if you refuse to take these field sobriety tests, you may still be arrested. After arrest, you must take a chemical test to determine the alcohol content in your system or the penalties are significantly worse. Should you choose to take these tests, the Law Offices of
Virginia L. Landry are experts in
defending against these field sobriety tests. All attorneys at our office have completed the same training as law enforcement on the administration of these tests so we know when the officer has made mistakes. Their mistakes help us to exclude these tests from going in as evidence in your case. If you have been arrested for a DUI and need
legal advice and
representation, give our office a call at 949-585-7400 or visit us at
www.duiqueen.com or
www.orangecountycriminallaw.com.