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Field Sobriety Test Boldly Defending Your Best Interests

Field Sobriety Test Attorney in Austin, TX

What Are Field Sobriety Tests?

Field sobriety tests are closely linked to DWI arrests and charges. Typically, an officer will use field sobriety tests to establish probable cause of intoxication and provide grounds for a DWI arrest. An officer’s testimony regarding field sobriety testing may also be used to support the prosecuting attorney’s case that a driver’s abilities were impaired.

Failed Field Sobriety Test - What Now?

You may have taken and “failed” field sobriety tests, but this does not necessarily mean that you should be found guilty of DWI. Our Austin DWI attorneys can investigate and evaluate your unique case to determine how to defend your interests by challenging field sobriety tests results and other evidence the prosecuting attorney may attempt to bring against you. We will seek out the truth and fight for your constitutional rights.

Contact our Austin field sobriety test lawyers at Smith & Vinson Law Firm today at (512) 359-3743 for a free DWI case evaluation.

Types of Field Sobriety Tests

There are three standardized field sobriety tests, or SFSTs, used by Austin police officers after stopping drivers suspected of DWI:

  • walk-and-turn
  • one-leg stand
  • horizontal gaze nystagmus

These tests are used to test balance, coordination, and a driver’s ability to follow instructions. They are graded based on set standards to determine whether a driver is intoxicated. These tests are not foolproof, however, and they may be administered improperly.

Do I Have to Take a Field Sobriety Test in Texas?

Police may ask you to perform the walk-and-turn, one-leg stand, or horizontal gaze nystagmus test. However, Texas law allows you to decline a field sobriety test.

There are several major problems with field sobriety tests. Problems with these tests include:

  • Law enforcement officers often do not administer or grade these tests correctly. Some officers even use tests that are not sanctioned by NHTSA.
  • Certain health conditions can make you more likely to fail a field sobriety test. If you are anxious or sleep-deprived while taking the test, then you would be less likely to pass. You could fail the test if you had knee or back pain.
  • Certain types of clothing could make you fail a field sobriety test. You could be more likely to fail the walk-and-turn test, where you put one foot in front of the other and walk in a straight line if you were barefoot or wearing high heels.
  • Field sobriety tests are videotaped. Anything you do or say during the test could be used against you by the prosecution.

These are only a few examples of why taking a field sobriety test could put you at a disadvantage. Even adverse weather conditions could increase the chances of failure.

What Happens If I Took the Field Sobriety Test?

You should call an Austin DWI attorney as soon as possible after being arrested on suspicion of a DWI. If you took a field sobriety test, then an attorney can determine whether the test was supported by probable cause or administered correctly. Your attorney could uncover other factors that may have affected the test’s accuracy. As a result, your attorney could fight to have your charges reduced or dismissed. 

Hiring a lawyer can offer significant advantages for individuals who have failed such tests. These attorneys are knowledgeable in defending clients against DUI charges and are well-versed in the intricacies of field sobriety tests. They possess a deep understanding of the standardized procedures required for these tests and can skillfully challenge their validity in court.

 A proficient lawyer may identify errors or inconsistencies in the administration of the tests, such as improper instructions, faulty equipment, or external factors that could have influenced test performance. By leveraging their knowledge, a field sobriety test attorney can build a robust defense strategy tailored to the specific circumstances of the case, potentially leading to reduced charges or even case dismissal.

Furthermore, a field sobriety test lawyer can navigate the complex legal landscape surrounding DUI cases in Texas. They are familiar with state laws, procedures, and precedents related to DUI offenses, allowing them to mount a comprehensive defense. These attorneys can explore alternative explanations for test results, challenge the prosecution's evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors to secure favorable plea deals if appropriate. 

Challenging Field Sobriety Test Results in TX

Our Austin DWI lawyers believe it is important to challenge field sobriety tests however possible, to positively influence our clients’ cases.

In challenging field sobriety test results, our Austin DWI team may ask such key questions as:

  • Was the testing area properly lit?
  • Was the ground uneven?
  • Was the defendant wearing high-heeled shoes?
  • Were the instructions properly and clearly given?
  • Did the officer properly evaluate the defendant’s performance?
  • Does the defendant have a physical condition that would impact his/her ability to perform the tests?
  • Was the officer properly trained on administering field sobriety tests?

To learn more about field sobriety tests and how we can help, call an Austin field sobriety test attorney at (512) 359-3743 from our firm to discuss your DWI case

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    • Case Dismissed Felony POCS & Probation Violation

      Our client was charged with an POCS 3rd degree felony while on probation in another county for a DWI 2nd. The car he was in was pulled over and, after officers obtained the consent of the driver, the car was searched. The police found cocaine in the vehicle and our client took responsibility.

    • Case Dismissed DWI

      Our client was pulled over for failure to signal intent to turn. The arresting officer claimed the vehicle accelerated at a high rate of speed (67 MPH in a 30 MPH zone) resulting in a chase. When our client stopped, the officer noted the smell of alcohol on our client’s breath.

    • Cases Rejected Pre-Indictment Three Counts of Aggravated Assault of a Deadly Weapon
    • Case Dismissed Assault Family Violence

      Our client was charged with Assault Family Violence that resulted from an argument with his girlfriend. Our client had a good job with a baby on the way and desperately wanted his record clear to support his family.

    • Not Guilty DWI .22 Blood Warrant

      This was the 2nd time we tried this case. First one ended in a mistrial last year. 911 caller reported 2 people leaving a restaurant belligerent and stumbling. Officer arrived on scene, conducted field sobriety tests and arrested client for DWI. Client refused to provide a sample. Warrant was obtained and blood came back a .22.

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