Courts in Pennsylvania harshly crack down on all those accused of driving under the influence (DUI). That said, with the right Montgomery County DUI lawyer in your corner, you will likely have a wide array of potential defenses at your disposal. Read on and reach out to Mudrick & Zucker, P.C. to learn more about the best defenses against DUI charges and how our legal team can help. Here are some of the questions you may have:

Can Inaccurate Sobriety Testing Invalidate DUI Charges?

Field sobriety tests are a common method for assessing impairment. However, these tests aren’t infallible. Various factors, including medical conditions, can lead to false positives. It’s crucial to scrutinize the testing procedure’s accuracy. A defense attorney can question the sobriety test’s validity, highlighting errors in administration or interpretation.

How Does the Reliability of Breathalyzer Tests Impact My Case?

Breathalyzer tests play a pivotal role in DUI cases. Calibration and maintenance of these devices are mandatory for accurate readings. Legal challenges may arise if the device wasn’t properly calibrated or if the officer lacked training. Pennsylvania law mandates adherence to specific standards for breathalyzer usage (Title 75, Section 1547 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes). Demonstrating non-compliance can significantly undermine the prosecution’s case.

Can External Factors Affect Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Readings?

BAC results are central to DUI allegations. However, numerous external variables can alter these readings. Dietary factors, medical conditions, and even the timing of the test can influence BAC levels. A knowledgeable defense lawyer will investigate these aspects, seeking discrepancies or mitigating circumstances.

What Are the Best Overall Defenses Against DUI Charges in Pennsylvania?

Just some of the most commonly used defenses against DUI charges in Pennsylvania are as follows:

  • Improper Stop: Law enforcement must have a legitimate reason for initiating a traffic stop. A defense can be built around the argument that the stop was unjustified, lacking probable cause.
  • Inaccurate Sobriety Testing: Faulty administration or interpretation of field sobriety tests can invalidate the evidence against the accused.
  • Breathalyzer Inaccuracy: Challenges to the breathalyzer’s calibration or the operator’s qualifications can question the reliability of BAC results.
  • Rising Blood Alcohol: This defense argues that the defendant’s BAC was below the legal limit while driving but rose to an illegal level by the time testing occurred.
  • Medical Conditions: Conditions such as GERD or diabetes can affect breathalyzer results, offering a basis for contesting DUI charges.

Of course, the specific defense your attorney will use will depend largely on the circumstances of your case, as every case is unique. That said, if you’re currently facing DUI charges, one of the most important things you can do is hire a competent attorney who can effectively fight for your future.

If you have further questions or need a skilled attorney in your corner, please don’t hesitate to contact Mudrick & Zucker, P.C. today.