DUI stops look the same in just about every state and typically include a field sobriety test, preliminary alcohol screening and arrest. Whether you were stopped and charged with a DUI and now want to know if the officer performed the stop in accordance with state law or you simply want to know what to expect just in case, the Indianapolis DUI attorney at Potts Law, LLC, knows that the best way to defend your rights is to arm yourself with knowledge.
How a Typical DUI Stop Is Performed
First, it’s important to note that an officer cannot just stop you because he or she saw you leave the parking lot of a local drinking establishment, or because he or she saw you leave a liquor store. The officer must have reasonable suspicion, which would be in the form of you swerving, failing to adhere to traffic signals or driving erratically. The police reports should indicate why you were stopped; if it does not, that should raise a red flag to your Indianapolis DUI attorney, as it indicates that protocol was not followed.
If the officer has reasonable suspicion and stops you, he or she may continue to the do the following after pulling you over:
• Conduct a field sobriety test in which you may be asked to stand on one leg, walk and turn, follow an object with your eye and balance with your head back for 30 seconds;
• Conduct a preliminary alcohol screening; and
• Arrest you.
Your Defense to a DUI Charge in Indiana
A DUI conviction can have very serious consequences on your future. In addition to jail time and fines, you may be forced to attend courses, report to a probation officer and include the conviction on employment applications. An Indianapolis DUI attorney can help you fight DUI charges with a number of defenses, one of which is proving that the arresting officer did not follow DUI stop protocol. If you were charged with a DUI in Indiana, call an experienced lawyer right away. Contact Potts Law, LLC today at (317) 951-0087 for more information and a free consultation OR fill out the online contact form.
