False DUI Arrests: What to Do If You Were Wrongfully Charged
If you have been arrested for a DUI, even if you know you were sober, the confusion and fear that follow can leave you feeling isolated and uncertain about your future. Unfortunately, law enforcement isn't infallible, and mistakes can happen. If you were wrongfully charged with a DUI, there are specific steps you can take to fight the charge.
At Brazil Clark, PLLC, our attorneys understand how devastating a false driving under the influence (DUI) charge can be for you and your family, and we are committed to providing the steadfast representation you need. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, we serve clients throughout Rutherford County and Middle Tennessee. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation, and let us help you clear your name.
Common Causes Behind Wrongful DUI Charges
False arrests happen more often than many people realize. Law enforcement officers are human, and they sometimes make mistakes during routine traffic stops. Several factors can lead an officer to incorrectly conclude that a driver is intoxicated, and some have nothing to do with alcohol consumption.
Medical conditions: Certain medical issues, such as diabetes or neurological disorders, can mimic the signs of intoxication.
Fatigue and exhaustion: Red eyes or sluggish reflexes from lack of sleep can easily be mistaken for drunkenness or drug use.
Vehicle alignment issues: If your car pulls to one side, officers could think that you were swerving or under the influence.
Dietary factors: Fasting or consuming specific diets, such as Keto diets, can cause a person's breath to smell like alcohol or mimic the signs of impairment.
Recognizing these underlying factors is the first step toward building a strong defense against your charges. When officers jump to conclusions based on these non-alcohol-related issues, it results in an unjust arrest. Our Tennessee DUI defense attorneys can help you identify these details to challenge the prosecution's case.
Steps to Take After a Wrongful Arrest
The moments following a false arrest are critical. What you say and do will significantly impact the outcome of your case. Stay calm and handle the situation carefully to protect yourself.
Exercise your right to remain silent: Politely decline to answer questions about where you have been or what you have been doing.
Be polite and cooperative: Don't resist arrest or argue with the officers, as this will only worsen your situation.
Refuse unnecessary searches: You have the right to refuse a search of your vehicle unless the officer has a valid warrant.
Document everything: As soon as you can, write down every detail about the traffic stop, including the time, location, and the officer's behavior.
These steps help protect your constitutional rights from the start. The less information you volunteer to law enforcement, the better off your case will be. Once you’re processed, contact a reliable DUI attorney who can advise you of your next steps.
Flaws in Breathalyzers and Field Sobriety Tests
Many wrongful arrests stem from faulty testing methods used by law enforcement. Breathalyzer devices require regular calibration and maintenance to provide accurate readings. If neglected, the machine can produce falsely elevated blood alcohol concentration results. Even properly maintained machines can register false positives from mouthwash or certain medications.
Field sobriety tests are equally subjective. Officers grade drivers on physical tasks, such as walking a straight line or standing on one leg. However, uneven roads, poor weather, or inappropriate footwear easily affect a person's balance. Nervousness alone can cause someone to fail these physical tests, even if they haven't consumed alcohol or drugs.
Unreliable results shouldn't be taken as absolute proof of guilt. Our experienced lawyers will scrutinize testing procedures and equipment maintenance logs to identify errors and ask the court to dismiss improper evidence.
How a False Charge Can Impact You
A pending charge can severely disrupt your daily life, even if you’re innocent. The stigma attached to criminal accusations can affect your personal and professional relationships. Therefore, it’s crucial to address the situation aggressively to minimize any potential fallout.
Employment difficulties: A pending criminal case could put your current job or future opportunities at risk.
Financial strain: Posting bail, paying impound fees, and missing work can create sudden, unexpected financial burdens.
Suspended driving privileges: You could temporarily lose your license, making it incredibly difficult to commute to work or care for your family.
Mental health struggles: The anxiety and stress of facing criminal charges can take a heavy toll on your emotional well-being.
You don't have to let these negative impacts dictate your future. Fighting back against the charges can help you regain control of your life. Our dedicated DUI attorneys will work diligently to help you restore your reputation and protect your livelihood.
Contact Our Tennessee DUI Attorneys for Experienced Defense Representation
Facing a criminal charge for something you didn't do is a heavy burden. We know you're scared, but you don't have to face the justice system alone. At Brazil Clark, PLLC, our attorneys can help you investigate the details of your traffic stop and challenge the evidence against you.
Our goal is to reduce or dismiss your charges whenever possible so you can move forward with your life, and we provide aggressive representation while treating you with compassion and respect. Don't let a wrongful arrest ruin your record or your reputation. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, we serve clients throughout Rutherford County and Middle Tennessee. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.