Were you arrested for DUI in Alabama?

If an Alabama police officer pulls you over in a traffic stop, then asks you to step out of your vehicle, he or she may suspect you of drunk driving or some other impairment. The subsequent events might unfold in any number of ways, including the officer requesting that you take a preliminary alcohol screening test or field sobriety test, or both. You’re under no obligation to comply.  

Not all DUI arrests lead to convictions 

If a police officer takes you into custody on suspicion, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you will go to trial and face conviction. For instance, you might take a Breathalyzer test upon arrest, which registers your blood alcohol content level lower than .08%, which is the percentage whereby operation of a motor vehicle becomes illegal (it’s even lower – just .02% — for underage drivers. Perhaps you took a roadside breath test as well, which registered a false positive due to cough syrup you had taken before getting behind the wheel.  

These and other issues may prompt the court to dismiss your case. However, if you failed a field sobriety test or your blood alcohol content was .08% or higher, you will no doubt wind up facing criminal DUI charges in court. Part of the outcome may hinge on whether it is your first offense or if you have faced similar charges or a conviction in the past. 

Being charged with a crime doesn’t negate your rights 

In a DUI arrest or any other criminal charges in Alabama, you’re guaranteed an opportunity to present a defense. There are often several defense strategy options available, which is why it is helpful to ask a criminal defense attorney to review your case before heading to court. At Hawley & Associates, LLC, an experienced legal team can help you determine the best defense to help mitigate your circumstances if you’ve been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol.