DUI Defenses

LLogue Law Group is renowned for its well-established reputation and respected expertise in the greater Pittsburgh area, particularly in the aggressive handling of DUI charges. With over a decade of experience, Attorney Sean Logue has consistently achieved favorable outcomes for clients, garnering unparalleled success within the local courts. Given the potentially severe consequences of a DUI conviction, it is imperative to promptly retain the services of a reputable criminal defense attorney.

At our firm, we provide you with a distinct advantage—an exceptional Pittsburgh DUI attorney who possesses a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted aspects surrounding DUI cases, ranging from the legal intricacies to the scientific and technical components. We meticulously investigate each of these areas to identify potential defense options that can effectively challenge the state’s case against you. Our unwavering commitment lies in delivering the utmost quality of legal representation when you are confronted with the life-altering repercussions of a serious criminal charge.

Facing a DUI charge? Schedule a complimentary case evaluation with our esteemed Pittsburgh DUI defense attorney at Logue Law Group. Submit your contact details online or call now at 844.PITT.DUI.

Types of DUI Cases We Handle

• First-offense DUI
• Second DUI
• Driving under the influence of drugs
• Driving under the influence of prescription drugs
• Underage DUI
• DUI with accident/injury
• DUI with blood alcohol content over 0.16%
• DUI with child endangerment
• Out-of-state DUI
• Extreme DUI

Potential Defenses to Your DUI Charge

When facing a DUI charge, understanding your potential defenses is crucial to protect your rights and tilt the case in your favor. This article explores four key defense arguments that can be employed to counter the charges and ensure a fair legal process.

These may include:

You Weren’t Impaired

Law enforcement often relies on physical indications, such as bloodshot eyes or a flushed face, to determine impairment. However, these signs can also be caused by factors unrelated to intoxication, such as illness or allergies. By demonstrating that these visual cues are inconclusive evidence of impairment, the basis for the field sobriety test can be refuted, potentially leading to dropped charges.

The Stop Wasn’t Legal

Under the protection of the Fourth Amendment, you are safeguarded from unreasonable searches and seizures without probable cause. When it comes to a DUI stop, the police must adhere to specific legal limits. By proving an unlawful stop, any evidence collected thereafter becomes inadmissible in court, significantly weakening the prosecution’s case.

No Valid Reason to Stop You Existed

For a lawful stop, the police must have a valid reason to detain you, typically involving suspicion of a crime. If no valid reason for the stop exists, the encounter becomes an illegal action. Consequently, any evidence collected after an unauthorized stop is deemed inadmissible, creating fertile ground for a skilled Pittsburgh criminal attorney to challenge the charges.

The DUI Checkpoint Did Not Meet Standards

DUI checkpoints must adhere to established guidelines and standards. These checkpoints are strategically placed in areas with a history of violations or are agreed upon by supervising officials. Proper signage is required to enhance transparency and fairness. Failing to meet these requirements can render the charges against you invalid, highlighting the importance of evaluating checkpoint compliance in your defense strategy.

The Chemical Test Wasn’t Administered Correctly

Accurate administration and analysis of blood, urine, and breath samples are critical in DUI cases. Clear standards govern the timing and methodology of these tests, including a maximum two-hour window of arrest. Moreover, testing equipment must be correctly calibrated and maintained. Any irregularity or deviation from established protocols can render test results inadmissible as evidence, which can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case.

Testing Equipment Wasn’t Calibrated Properly

To ensure reliable results, it is crucial to properly calibrate the devices used for breath and blood testing. Failure to calibrate these devices can lead to invalid test results, rendering them inadmissible.

You Weren’t Driving the Vehicle

The primary basis for a DUI charge is a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or above, or visible impairment. However, if you were not operating the vehicle, you cannot be charged with intoxication. Mere assumptions by the police that you were drinking and driving, without witnessing you in the driver’s seat, hold no weight. The testimony of witnesses affirming your non-involvement in driving can result in the dismissal of charges.

The Police Report Is Not Accurate

Police reports often contain exaggerations to ensure a guilty conviction and suitable punishment. However, a Pittsburgh DUI lawyer can scrutinize these reports, highlighting deficiencies and inconsistencies in court. Even minor discrepancies in the report can undermine the credibility of police testimonies, leading to the dismissal of the case.

How a DUI Defense Attorney Can Help 

A Pittsburgh DUI lawyer can present various arguments to defend clients facing DUI charges. At Logue Law Group, we explore all potential avenues to safeguard your rights and interests.

Take the first step in protecting yourself by filling out our online contact form or calling 844.PITT.DUI to schedule a free consultation.