If you got arrested for a DWI, you’re probably worried about what the future holds. And I get it.
The possibility of losing your license in a city where you need your car to be able to move around, paying huge fines, and maybe even serving jail time can be daunting.
But you are not alone. As a DWI defense attorney who’s gotten DWI charges dismissed or reduced for my clients, I’m here to tell you that there are ways to fight a DWI case. By handling hundreds of DWI cases, I’ve learned that winning these cases comes down to scrutinizing every detail, understanding the science behind the machines that test your alcohol, and knowing exactly where to look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Traffic Stop Deep Dive
The initial traffic stop is crucial. The police needs legitimate probable cause to pull you over. If they can’t prove they had a valid reason for the stop, everything that follows could be thrown out. I always carefully review dashcam footage and police reports to spot any inconsistencies. What is crucial here, is to be very familiar with the traffic codes and legal reasons when an officer can make contact with someone. An experienced DWI lawyer will immediately identify a bad traffic stop
Field Sobriety Tests Aren’t Perfect
Here’s something most people don’t realize: those roadside tests aren’t as foolproof as police make them seem. Bad weather, uneven ground, medical conditions, or even being naturally uncoordinated can affect your performance. A good DWI lawyer knows how to challenge these results by showing all the factors that could have led to a “failed” test that had nothing to do with alcohol.
The Breath Test Myth
Breathalyzers might seem like solid evidence, but they’re not infallible. These machines need regular calibration and proper maintenance. If the officer didn’t wait the required 15 minutes before administering the test, or if you had acid reflux, dental work, or even used certain mouthwashes – these could all affect the results. We can request maintenance records and often find issues that call these results into question.
Not leaving any stones unturned is the road to success
Every successful DWI defense starts with thorough documentation. Body cam footage, dashcam videos, witness statements, maintenance records for testing equipment – these are gold mines for finding procedural errors or inconsistencies that can help your case. No decision should be made in a case like this until your lawyer has reviewed with you all the evidence that the State may have against you. Only then you will have a good understanding of what your options are
Medical Conditions Matter
Various medical conditions can mimic intoxication – from diabetes to inner ear problems. If you have any medical conditions, tell your lawyer immediately. This could be crucial to explaining things like balance issues or slurred speech.
The Power of Negotiation
Sometimes, winning doesn’t mean getting all charges dropped. It might mean getting you into a program that results in dismissing your case upon completion, negotiating a plea to a lesser offense or getting probation instead of jail time. A skilled DWI lawyer knows when to use honey and when to bring the claws out.
Bottom Line
Winning DWI cases isn’t about magic tricks – it’s about attention to detail, knowing the law inside and out, and understanding how to effectively challenge evidence. Every case is unique, and a good DWI lawyer knows how to identify and leverage the specific circumstances that could lead to a favorable outcome.
Ultimately, the best DWI defense is to avoid drinking and driving altogether. But if you find yourself facing charges, knowing these strategies can help you know what questions to ask when looking for a DWI lawyer, and to make an informed decision.
Keep in mind this is general information – every case is different, and you should always consult with a qualified attorney about your specific situation.
If you find yourself arrested for DWI, and need a DWI lawyer who gives a sh*t, fill out the form below for a free consultation.