On behalf of Jacquelyn Ford Law, P.C. posted in Criminal Defense on Monday, February 9, 2015.
As many Oklahoma City residents likely heard, a while back the state took its time in proceeding with charges against people who were accused of drunk driving. In some cases, it took up to two years for the charges to get sorted out and filed. This was because incongruities and complications with these cases forced prosecutors to thoroughly look into the investigation and the charges against certain individuals. They wanted to make sure the charges were appropriate, given what occurred.
Some people may have had the charges against them dropped. Others likely were hit with DUI charges after such a long wait. It’s important to realize that these discrepancies during the criminal investigation can have a major impact on the charges associated with your name.
But it’s also important to realize that even though it is easy to assume every DUI case is the same, the reality is that every DUI case is unique. There are little wrinkles that may play a role in your DUI case that are not present in other DUI cases. This makes each case very delicate for prosecutors, as any mistake — by them or the police who initially dealt with the matter — could result in a dropped case.
Anyone accused of driving under the influence should not immediately assume that their life is over and that the charges will stick. There are plenty of things that could have been done improperly during the investigation into your actions, leading to lesser charges or no charges at all.
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Why DUI Charges in Oklahoma May Be More Complicated Than They Seem
When you think of a DUI (Driving Under the Influence), you may picture a person being pulled over, arrested, and charged on the spot. While this is often the case, DUI charges are far from straightforward, and complications can arise at any point in the process. From issues with the investigation to errors made by law enforcement, several factors can contribute to the complexity of a DUI case.
At Jacqui Ford Law, we know that DUI charges can have life-changing consequences. Our experienced attorneys have built a strong reputation in Oklahoma for handling DUI cases with the care and attention they require. We are committed to defending your rights, ensuring you receive the fair treatment you deserve, and helping you navigate the complexities of the laws surrounding DUI in Oklahoma.
With a personalized approach, our criminal defense team strives to protect your future from the long-term effects of a DUI conviction.
What Makes a DUI Case Complicated?
DUI cases can sometimes take longer than expected to resolve, and the legal journey may not be as simple as it seems. Here are some of the key reasons why DUI charges can become more complicated than you might expect:
1. Inaccuracies and Discrepancies in the Investigation
In Oklahoma, DUI cases can be delayed for months or even years due to issues with the investigation. An example could be several individuals who faced DUI charges, but due to discrepancies and complications in the investigation, the charges were delayed for a significant period of time. In some instances, it took up to two years for prosecutors to file charges.
When law enforcement handles a DUI case, several things can go wrong, including:
- Improper testing: Breathalyzer tests or field sobriety tests that are improperly administered can undermine the accuracy of evidence.
- Chain of custody issues: If blood or breath samples are mishandled or not properly documented, the evidence could be inadmissible.
- Errors in police procedure: Law enforcement officers must follow strict protocols when pulling someone over for suspected DUI. Any misstep, from the initial stop to the arrest, can raise questions about the validity of the case.
These issues can cause delays in prosecuting DUI cases, and in some situations, prosecutors may even drop the charges altogether if they cannot ensure the case is solid. This highlights the importance of an experienced attorney who can spot these discrepancies and challenge the charges.
2. Every DUI Case Is Unique
It is easy to assume that all DUI cases are the same, but in reality, every case is different. Whether it’s the circumstances of the arrest, the specifics of the field sobriety tests, or even the officer’s conduct during the stop, there are many variables that can influence the outcome.
- Field Sobriety Tests: These tests are commonly used to determine if someone is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, but they are not foolproof. Various factors, such as medical conditions, environmental conditions, or even the officer’s training, can affect the results.
- Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Levels: The accuracy of BAC readings can be challenged. For example, breathalyzer tests are sometimes inaccurate due to technical issues, maintenance problems, or improper calibration. Additionally, certain medical conditions can affect how alcohol is processed in the body, leading to misleading test results.
Given the complexity of DUI cases, it’s important to work with an attorney who can examine the unique aspects of your case and identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument.
3. Procedural Mistakes Can Lead to Case Dismissals
In many DUI cases, mistakes made during the investigation or arrest can lead to the dismissal of charges. Police officers must have a valid reason for pulling over a driver, and if they do not, any evidence gathered during the stop could be inadmissible. Additionally, officers must read the defendant their rights when arresting them, and failing to do so may undermine the prosecution’s case.
- Unlawful stops: If a police officer pulls someone over without reasonable suspicion or probable cause, the entire case could be thrown out.
- Failure to administer proper tests: Field sobriety tests and breathalyzer tests must be conducted correctly to be valid in court. If the procedures are not followed, the results may be challenged.
- Failure to Mirandize: The Miranda rights must be read to individuals who are arrested, or any statements made after arrest could be inadmissible.
A knowledgeable DUI defense attorney can identify any mistakes made during your arrest or investigation and use them to build a strong defense strategy.
4. Legal Defenses to DUI Charges
Even if you are facing DUI charges, it’s important to remember that there may be legal defenses available to you. Just because you were arrested does not automatically mean you are guilty. Some common defenses in DUI cases include:
- Improper traffic stop: If the officer did not have reasonable suspicion to pull you over, the case against you could be dismissed.
- Inaccurate breathalyzer or blood tests: Breathalyzers and blood tests are not always 100% accurate, and mistakes or malfunctions can lead to incorrect readings.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as acid reflux or diabetes, can lead to false positives in breathalyzer tests.
- Lack of evidence: If the prosecution cannot prove that you were under the influence beyond a reasonable doubt, the case may be dismissed or reduced to lesser charges.
A skilled DUI defense attorney can explore all potential defenses and work to reduce or dismiss the charges against you.
5. The Impact of DUI Charges on Your Future
A DUI conviction in Oklahoma can have significant consequences, including fines, jail time, mandatory alcohol education classes, and a suspended driver’s license. The lasting effects of a DUI conviction can extend beyond legal penalties and affect your personal and professional life as well.
- Criminal record: A DUI conviction can stay on your criminal record, impacting your employment prospects and personal relationships.
- Insurance rates: A DUI conviction can lead to increased insurance premiums, making it more expensive to drive.
- Loss of driving privileges: Depending on the severity of the offense, a DUI conviction may result in the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license.
It’s important to understand the full impact of DUI charges and take steps to protect your future by working with an attorney who will fight for your rights and help you navigate the legal process.
Contact Our Oklahoma DUI Attorneys at Jacqui Ford Law Today
At Jacqui Ford Law, we have extensive experience defending individuals facing DUI charges in Oklahoma. We understand the complexities of these cases and are committed to providing personalized, professional legal services.
Our attorneys take the time to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your arrest, identify any weaknesses in the case, and create a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation. We will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected and help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
Contact us today at 405-604-3200 for an initial consultation.
