Being charged with a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) in the Kansas City area can feel like the odds are stacked against you, especially if you performed field sobriety tests during your traffic stop. But what many people don’t realize is that these tests are not always reliable, and a skilled DWI lawyer can often challenge how they were conducted or interpreted to build a strong defense.
At Divine Law Office, we assist clients in both Missouri and Kansas in fighting DWI charges by thoroughly examining every detail of their arrest, including field sobriety tests, to identify errors, inconsistencies, or procedural violations. This meticulous approach could lead to a significant reduction in charges or even the dismissal of your case, offering a glimmer of hope in a challenging situation.
Why Field Sobriety Tests Are Not Always Reliable
Standardized field sobriety tests (SFSTs) typically include the walk-and-turn, one-leg stand, and horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN) test, which assesses eye movement. These tests are designed to help officers determine if a driver is impaired, but they are far from perfect.
Many factors can affect performance on these tests, such as:
- Uneven pavement or poor lighting
- Medical conditions or physical limitations
- Weather conditions
- Nervousness or anxiety
You could fail one of these tests without ever having consumed alcohol or drugs. A DWI lawyer understands these issues and can use them to cast doubt on the results presented in court.
Challenging How the Tests Were Conducted
Police officers must follow strict guidelines when administering field sobriety tests. If they fail to do so, the results may be considered invalid. For example, if the officer did not explain the test correctly or conducted it on uneven ground, your lawyer may argue that the results are unreliable.
At Divine Law Office, we know how to evaluate dashcam or bodycam footage, officer reports, and witness statements to determine whether procedures were followed correctly. We’ve seen cases where improper administration of these tests led to reduced charges or outright dismissal.
Disputing the Interpretation of the Results
Even when tests are administered properly, the officer’s interpretation is subjective. One officer’s opinion that you were swaying or couldn’t maintain balance may be disputed with expert testimony or video evidence.
In some cases, officers may misread normal behavior as signs of impairment. A DWI lawyer can bring in medical experts or challenge the officer’s training and experience to question the accuracy of their observations.
Real Results Through Legal Strategy
For example, in a recent case in Missouri, our client was pulled over for a minor traffic violation and asked to complete field sobriety tests. Due to a knee injury, the client struggled with the one-leg stand. We were able to demonstrate that the officer failed to consider this medical issue, and the judge ruled the test results inadmissible. The charges were later reduced.
In another case in Kansas, we challenged the officer’s lack of formal SFST training, which led to the dismissal of all DWI-related charges.
Trust a Lawyer Who Understands the System
Divine Law Office has extensive experience with DWI cases in both Kansas and Missouri. Attorney Craig Divine is well-versed in police procedures, testing standards, and the art of challenging weak or inaccurate evidence in court. Our goal is to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
If you’ve been charged with a DWI in the Kansas City metro area, don’t assume the evidence against you is airtight. Contact Divine Law Office for a free consultation. We value your trust and will use this opportunity to thoroughly review your case, ensuring that your defense gets off to the right start with our care and attention.