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If you’ve enjoyed an evening of fun playing pool at The Washington Club on Washington Avenue or sipping craft beers at Club Zamora on E. 14th Street, the last thing you want is to encounter a DUI checkpoint. Perhaps you find yourself at the Long Branch Saloon indulging in some small bites and brews before heading home. However, if you have had a few too many drinks, be warned that E. 14th Street near Fairmont Drive is a known spot for DUI checkpoints.
Imagine this scenario: You’re winding down your night. You hear the alarming siren of a police vehicle behind you, and your heart skips a beat as you realize you’re being pulled over. If you find yourself arrested for DUI, having a knowledgeable Oakland DUI attorney by your side from the outset could be critical in changing the outcome of your case. Contact the Law Offices of Nabiel C. Ahmed at 510-576-5544 to arrange a free consultation today.
The Impact of Police Mistakes on DUI Arrests
It’s crucial to understand that while your actions during a DUI stop can influence the situation, police officers are not infallible. Mistakes made by law enforcement during the DUI stop, arrest, or investigation can potentially make evidence against you inadmissible in court.
Illegal Stops and Their Consequences
For a police officer to lawfully pull you over, they must have probable cause or reasonable suspicion that you’ve broken the law. While there are often valid reasons given for a traffic stop, they can sometimes be flimsy, like a dirty license plate.
Many officers look for clear violations such as speeding, failing to signal, or running a stop sign. If your attorney can successfully argue that the officer had no reasonable basis for the traffic stop, there’s a strong chance your case can be dismissed.
Improper Field Sobriety Tests: Know Your Rights
Field sobriety tests are commonly administered by police, but there’s a chance they could be conducted improperly. While officers receive training, deviations do occur. Furthermore, factors like medical conditions or even external conditions like bad terrain can effect the test outcomes.
It’s important to remember: You are legally allowed to decline a field sobriety test, especially if you believe that physical conditions (age, weight, balance) may hinder your performance.
Breathalyzer Test Errors and Your Defense
Breathalyzer devices are just that—devices. They require routine maintenance and calibration to ensure accuracy. Equipment failure or improper administration of these tests can lead to unreliable results.
The decision to take a preliminary breath test can be optional unless you’re 21 or currently on DUI probation. However, the blood test managed at the station afterward is not optional.
Consequences of Poor Officer Preparation and Evidence Management
Given the high volume of DUI arrests, law enforcement officers might struggle to prepare adequately for trials. Sometimes, essential details fade from memory, leading reliance solely on written reports. Over time, vital evidence, like videos and affidavits, can be lost or mishandled, potentially aiding your case.
In San Leandro, California, the stakes of a DUI conviction can be daunting—fines reaching $1,000, potential jail time of up to six months, loss of your driving privileges, and hefty costs associated with penalties. That’s why securing the representation of an experienced DUI attorney in San Leandro is not just wise—it’s essential for defending against any missteps made during your arrest.
The Law Offices of Nabiel C. Ahmed is equipped and ready to scrutinize every facet of your arrest. Don’t wait. Reach out today to start building your defense. Get your free consultation by calling 510-576-5544!
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