Field Sobriety Tests in NC

Concord DWI Defense Attorney

At The Law Offices of Darrin M. Gamradt, P.C., you can expect to receive passionate and aggressive counsel for your DWI charges. The firm is home to experienced criminal defense attorneys who focuses on handling DWI cases. You can call on the firm for the counsel and support you need to navigate your charges.

One of the most important aspects of a DWI arrest is how the field sobriety tests were administered and performed. If an officer has reason to believe that an individual is driving under the influence, they may ask them to perform certain tests. If an individual fails, they may be accused of or charged with DWI. These tests play a huge role in a defendant's defense and can be used to fight charges.

Different Types of Field Sobriety Tests

There are several field sobriety tests (FSTs), that an officer can use to determine whether or not a person may be intoxicated. Without signs of impairment, an officer may not be able to arrest you for DWI or ask you to perform a chemical test. As a result, they often ask individuals to perform one or all of the FSTs.

The three standardized tests that police officers can use include:

• The Walk-and-Turn Test
• The One-Leg Stand Test
• The Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus Test

There are other tests that an officer can use to determine impairment, but those tests are not validated by the National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration and can be challenged in court much more easily. The tests are meant to test for any physical or mental impairments a person may be struggling with due to intoxication.

An officer must look for certain signs or responses, which means they could easily misread or misjudge a sign or response for impairment, when in actuality, it is simply a physical disability or other explanation. The attorney from The Law Offices of Darrin M. Gamradt, P.C. can challenge any evidence from FSTs against you and make sure that your rights were not violated in the process. If the tests were administered incorrectly, the evidence may be thrown out, strengthening your case.

Do not wait to get the counsel and representation you need during this serious time. Contact the firm today to schedule a consultation with The Law Offices of Darrin M. Gamradt, P.C.