Gaithersberg DUI Lawyers
- Gwyn Hoerauf:
Of all of the field sobriety tests used by police officers to determine
a driver's level of intoxication in DUI arrests, the Horizontal Gaze
Nystagmus (HGN) test is the most popular among law enforcement officers
for effectively determining evidence of a driver's blood-alcohol
concentration (BAC). HGN is an involuntary jerking of the eye that
occurs naturally as the eyes gaze to the side. During the HGN test,
officers instruct DUI suspects to follow a stimulus (usually a
penlight) with their eyes, estimating the driver's BAC level based in
part on the angle of gaze at which jerking is first observed in each
eye. Despite its proven accuracy, the admissibility of the HGN test in
court is the most heavily scrutinized of all field sobriety tests.
Specifically, some courts characterize the HGN test as a scientific
test, requiring prosecutors to lay the foundation for the admission of
HGN evidence via expert testimony.
- Lawrence Robinson:
Criminal charges may include such matters involving serious traffic
offenses, including DUI/DWI violations. Any criminal DUI/DWI case
can lead to serious consequences. For example, there is always
the very strong possibility of a substantial fine being imposed in
addition to a sentence of a time in jail. A serious traffic
offense may result in the revocation of your driver's license, making
everyday transportation difficult. The premium for your
automobile insurance will probably increase dramatically. A
conviction for some DUI/DWI crimes can result in the loss orsuspension
of your commercial driving license, making it difficult for you to earn
a living in your usual way. There are certain requirements that
the State has to prove in a serious traffic case for you to be
convicted. There are also different steps that you have to take
in order get the best results possible. You need a strong
advocate to help you stand up for your rights.
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