The general perception about being accused of driving under the influence is that it is an easy matter for police and prosecutors to prove. After all, they have modern technology on their side, in the form of devices that can sample your breath or even your blood to determine to a fraction of a percent the amount of alcohol in your system. In addition to their technology police officers receive considerable training in identifying the characteristics of suspected drunk drivers.
And then there is the judicial system, which also seems stacked against you. The police officer who may testify against you and the prosecutor who seeks your conviction carry the implied weight of the law behind their words. What chance do you, as a private individual, have against the technology and personnel of the state of Florida when it comes to credibility?
Fortunately, the same legal system that can bring so much power, technology and apparent authority against you has also given you an important resource with which to defend yourself: an attorney.
A defense law firm that is knowledgeable in and experienced with criminal law in general, and DUI law in particular, will know of the many ways in which a police officer may have improperly calibrated a breathalyzer, or improperly administered a test, or failed to observe a key right of yours under the U.S. and Florida constitutions.
There are many ways in which law enforcement personnel may open possibilities for you to defend yourself against a drunk driving charge. There may be problems with the chain of evidentiary custody; there may be shortcomings in how police personnel are trained.
What is important to know is that you do not need to know where and how to look for these possibly hard-to-find opportunities to protect your rights. That is what we, as defense attorneys, are prepared to do as your advocates.
If you have been accused of a DUI offense, one of the first things you can do on your own behalf is to contact Escobar, Michaels & Associates for a free initial consultation. See our page on drunk driving to learn more about our services, and how to contact us.