How Our Goodyear DUI Lawyers Can Help You
DUI cases in Goodyear carry significant and lasting ramifications. Convictions can lead to substantial fines, incarceration, probation, license suspension, community service, or mandatory counseling.
A DUI lawyer specializes in handling cases related to drunk driving, drugged driving, and intoxicated driving offenses, dedicating their practice to defending individuals facing these charges.
While DUI defense falls under the umbrella of criminal defense, it’s essential to seek representation from a lawyer with specific experience in handling DUI cases. Such lawyers possess valuable insights gained from handling similar cases, allowing them to devise effective defense strategies.
What Happens If I Am Pulled Over For DUI In Goodyear?
DUI stands for “driving under the influence,” a charge applicable when someone operates a vehicle while intoxicated. In Arizona, as well as across most of the country, the legal limit is a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08%. Anyone found operating a vehicle with a BAC above this limit could face a DUI charge.
If you’ve been pulled over in Goodyear, remember your right to remain silent. It’s crucial to comply with the officer’s requests, but politely decline to answer questions or speak to investigators until you’ve consulted with a DUI Lawyer.
Probable Cause
For Goodyear DUI charges to be valid, the police officer must have had a legally acceptable reason for pulling you over, known as probable cause. Legitimate reasons for a traffic stop in Arizona include:
- The driver has committed a traffic violation
- The driving pattern is consistent with intoxication
- The vehicle was involved in an accident
- The officer suspects the driver or vehicle was involved in an independent crime
- The driver/vehicle was stopped at an authorized DUI checkpoint
- The officer received a tip from a civilian you are suspected of drunk driving
Roadside Exercises
Several tests have been developed to help officers detect intoxicated drivers over the years. In Goodyear, however, police officers are specifically trained to administer three exercises for this purpose. These tests require a safe location and a demonstration by the officer before you are asked to perform them. Here are the three exercises approved for use in Goodyear:
- Walk and Turn
- One Leg Stand
- Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus
It’s crucial to remember that participating in these roadside exercises is VOLUNTARY, and police officer’s cannot make an arrest solely based on your refusal to perform them. If you choose to participate, the officers are required to record the exercises for potential use in court proceedings.
Goodyear, Arizona Implied Consent Law
Arizona, like many other states, operates under an implied consent law. This means by obtaining a driver’s license, you automatically agree to submit to a blood, breath, or urine chemical test if requested by law enforcement. Refusing to take a chemical test in Goodyear will result in the suspension of your driver’s license, similar to what would happen if your blood alcohol content (BAC) exceeded .08%.
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Do I Need A Goodyear Defense Lawyer?
DUI isn’t the only criminal offense in Goodyear warranting the assistance of a lawyer. An experienced criminal law firm plays a crucial role in assessing your case, informing you of your options and potential consequences, investigating the facts, interviewing witnesses, conferring with the prosecution, and ultimately representing you competently in court.
Some of the most common criminal offenses a criminal defense lawyer can assist with include:
- DUI, Traffic Offenses
- Alcohol, Marijuana, Other Drug Offenses
- Juvenile Offenses
- Domestic Violence, Other Violent Crimes
- Theft, Trespassing Offenses
- Weapons Offenses
DUI and Criminal Defense Law is complex in Goodyear, Arizona. A thorough and complete understanding of the law necessary in order to fight the charges against you. Here are the scenarios where you would benefit from an independent Goodyear DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyer:
- You have been charged with a crime – If you have been charged with a criminal offense we strongly encourage you to hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
- You’re appealing a criminal conviction – The law provides explicit directions and rules regarding appeals. If the process isn’t executed correctly, it can jeopardize your chances of overturning the conviction.
- You’re guilty of the crime – Guilty individuals need and deserve representation — it’s your right as an American. If you’ve committed a crime, hiring a criminal defense lawyer can help negotiate reduced charges or a lighter punishment.
We Help Keep Good People Out Of Jail!