Field Sobriety Tests and DUI Charges in Overland Park
Overland Park DUI Defense Attorney
A traffic stop which turns into a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) investigation generally results in the officer having the driver perform various balance and reaction tests to determine if the driver is impaired due to drugs or alcohol. This can seem fair, as long as the officer is well trained in the testing techniques, only uses the approved tests and is very observant. There are a number of factors which could negatively influence the outcome, such as bad weather conditions, poor road surface, and age or physical conditions of the driver, as well as incorrectly administered tests. If you or a loved one has failed a series of such tests and been arrested, it is crucial that you consult an Overland Park criminal defense attorney for assistance without delay. Attorney Robert C. Gigstad has received the same training as law enforcement officers, and is certified to administer the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Standardized Field Sobriety Tests.
Field Sobriety Tests and DUI Defense
The tests approved for use in the Field Sobriety Test (FST) were tested by the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) for effectiveness. The only three that were found to have validity are the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test, the walk and turn and the one leg stand. According to the NHTSA studies, even when these are carefully and correctly administered and evaluated there is a large margin of error possible, meaning a sober person can fail these tests for a number of reasons. The officer may have failed to fully explain and demonstrate the test before having you perform the actions. An uneven or sloping surface could interfere with balance and your ability to successfully perform. Obesity, disability, having uncertain balance, or other physical conditions can make it impossible to carry out the movements correctly while maintaining good balance.
An officer's failure to administer the correct tests or administer them correctly can also be grounds for excluding test results from the evidence against you. If the officer had you do a preliminary breath test and arrested you based on the fact that you failed it, this also can be challenged as these devices are not reliable. Fighting the results of an FST is a complex matter which depends upon a full understanding of the technical issues involved. A respected DUI defense lawyer at our firm carefully examines all of the circumstances surrounding a client's arrest in order to identify the flaws in the prosecution's case with the intention of getting the charges dismissed or reduced.
The most damaging evidence against a driver may be the statements he or she makes in answer to an officer's or prosecutor's questions. Be aware of this, and don't answer any questions without first getting advice of legal counsel. Any DUI conviction (or guilty plea) will have serious repercussions on your future. This makes it vital that you take effective action in your own defense. Talk to a criminal defense lawyer who can work closely with you and delivers an aggressive defense by calling Gigstad Law Office, LLC.
If you have failed a Field Sobriety Test, contact an Overland Park DUI defense attorney to discuss your case.
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Testimonials
Client-Centered Legal Represntation
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"Took Care of Everything for Me"Took care of everything for me... I just gave him the paperwork. Pretty legitAaron
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""He's Da Man""He made me feel very comfortable, therefore making my communication between us seam easy and hassel free. He always got back to me in a timely manner and always had a positive solution to my problem.anonymous
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"He Is Very Adept at Guiding You to the Very Best Scenario for Your Particular Situation"I highly recommend Mr. Gigstad for your legal needs. He is very adept at guiding you to the very best scenario for your particular situation. He helped my husband and I with a case that would have required us to travel to Kansas had we not hired him. He made it possible for us to stay here in Florida as he went to all of our court appearances, negotiated so we would receive the lightest possible court penalties, including negotiating for the lowest fine that the court would accept. As a bonus, Mr. Gigstad is extremely reasonable! If you would like to get the best outcome for your case, hire Mr. Gigstad!Lindy
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"Robert Was Extremely Helpful and Great to Work With!"My dad has used Robert for several moving violations in the past and recommended that I give him a call for a speeding ticket of my own. Robert was extremely helpful and great to work with. He successfully got my speeding ticket reduced to a non moving violation.Happy Client
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"I Appreciate Robert's Efficiency and Patience"I really appreciate Robert's help with my case. I was ashamed, stressed and overwhelmed due to my intent to deprive charge. Robert made the process very easy and reminded me that everyone makes mistakes and no one is perfect. I never felt judged or as though he was telling me what I wanted to hear for money, he is sincere! I appreciate Robert's efficiency and patience, he always took time to explain everything in detail, e-mailed and/or called me back within the same business day. I never had to attend court until I signed my diversion paperwork. Needless to say I wouldn't hesitate to rehire Robert and you won't be disappointed for choosing Robert.E.E
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"Robert Was Excellent to Work with"Robert was excellent to work with. I have known him for many many years and he was very professional. He took care of me in a timely manner and also answered any questions I had.Lindsay
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"Robert Assisted Me in Doing Something I Didn't Know Was Possible"Robert assisted me in doing something I didn't know was possible - finally putting a bad decision I made 14 years ago behind me. Although I appreciated his professional and respectful approach to his work, I hope I never need his services again. If I do however, I would not hesitate to call him.DUI Client
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"Robert Gigstad Is a Good down to Earth Attorney"Robert Gigstad is a good down to earth attorney. He helped my daughter with her case which included transporting and open container and a DUI. He was very reasonable on the cost too which we were extremely thankful.Anthony
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DISMISSED STATE OF KANSAS V. J.M.
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DISMISSED CITY OF OVERLAND PARK V. H.C.
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Dismissal City of Gardner v. J.V.
First-time DUI dismissed after Attorney Josh Zarse highlighted significant issues in the case.
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Dismissed before Trial. State of Kansas v. G.E.
1st Time Drug DUI & Speeding. Dismissed before Trial.
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All Charges Dismissed City of Roeland Park v. B.T.