What to Do if You are Stopped at a Sobriety Checkpoint
By Knowles Law Firm, PLC
Mar. 23, 2012 5:00p
Being stopped at a sobriety checkpoint is a method used by Arizona law enforcement to find and charge drunk drivers. These checkpoints are often set up on popular holidays, weekends, and late at night when drunk drivers are more likely to be on the road. Police officers may stop every car or use a method for stopping certain vehicles, in order to ask for your license, registration, and insurance information and question you about whether you have been drinking.
In the Mesa area, if you are asked to take field sobriety tests as a result of being stopped, such as walking a straight line, touching your finger to your nose or other tests, politely refuse. You are not required by law to take such tests. Even if you are threatened with jail, you do not have to comply with such tests as they only provide evidence which can be used against you. Also, if a police officer asks if he can look in your car, you can also say no. Be polite in your refusal and don’t provide any explanations. You are protected by law from unreasonable search and seizure. A search warrant must be obtained through legal means in order for you to be required to submit to a search. Cooperate politely with law enforcement but don’t answer any questions. Just say you won’t answer without an attorney, which may effectively end any further questioning.
Follow up with Legal Representation from a Mesa DUI Attorney
If you wind up being arrested for DUI, your first order of business should be to contact an experienced attorney. At the Knowles Law Firm, you will find a Mesa DUI lawyer who is fully prepared to go the distance in preparing your case and fighting aggressively to help you win the most favorable outcome possible. DUI cases can be complicated and technical. Having an attorney who focuses on DUI law and procedure is a must; that is what you will find at this reputable and proven DUI defense firm serving the Mesa area and surrounding communities.
Contact a Mesa DUI attorney at Knowles Law Firm, PLC for a consultation about your DUI arrest and charges today.