Field Sobriety Tests in Mesa

Challenging Field Sobriety Test Evidence in Mesa DUI Charges

One of the ways in which a law enforcement officer can check for inebriation in a motorist is the field sobriety test (FST). The field sobriety test is a set of physical actions that the officer has the driver perform. Typically, these field sobriety tests (FST's) will give the officer some indication as to whether the driver is intoxicated, and if so, to what general level (moderate to severe). The field sobriety test can vary from state to state, but there are three standardized tests used across all states, and these are:

• One-legged stand – Here, the motorist suspected of DUI is asked to stand on one leg for a period of time. If they cannot perform this action, the officer may conclude that their lack of balance is due to consumption of alcohol.
• HGN (Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus) – In this test, the driver is asked to follow an object with their eyes only, the object usually being a small item like a pen. The action is used to determine whether they can smoothly follow the object’s motion with their eyes, or if their eyes are jerking involuntarily due to alcohol consumption.
• Walk-and-turn – The driver is asked to walk nine steps, in a straight line, “heel-to-toe.” They must then turn around, and walk the nine steps back in the same fashion. If they cannot stay on a straight line, or lose their balance, the officer may assume that they are under the influence of alcohol.

For further information about field sobriety tests and DUI charges, contact a Mesa DUI attorney today.

DUI Attorney serving Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe & the Entire East Valley

The Law Offices of Trent R. Buckallew, P.C. has been representing individuals charged with DUI for over 12 years. During that time, the Firm has helped many clients avoid convictions, as well as the harsh penalties that often accompany those convictions. If you have been arrested for DUI after failing a field sobriety test, contact the Firm, and an experienced attorney will conduct a thorough case investigation, identify weaknesses that could potentially undermine the government's case, and prepare a strong legal defense on your behalf. The results of a field sobriety test may be challenged in court by your attorney, as they are dependent on an officer’s subjective interpretation, which could result in a reduction of charges, a dismissal, or an acquittal after trial, in your DUI case. It is imperative that you retain an attorney who has the experience necessary to analyze and challenge the evidence. Mr. Buckallew is well versed in criminal law, having undertaken an academic concentration in criminal litigation during law school, and has also received his Master of Forensic Science (M.F.S.) degree which gives him a unique perspective and understanding of the complexity of the science behind the evidence.

Contact a Mesa DUI lawyer to discuss your options if you are facing DUI charges after failing a field sobriety test.