Was your DUI stop unlawful, and what does it mean for your case?

On Behalf of | Jan 13, 2022 | Criminal Defense

The police need to have a reason to pull you over. They are legally not allowed to stop you based on a hunch or flimsy grounds such as driving at night in an area near a lot of bars.

If your traffic stop was unlawful, then the evidence obtained from the stop may not be admissible in court. This is in line with the Fourth Amendment, which protects you from illegal searches and seizures. Here is more on what you need to know.

The police need probable cause

The police need probable cause to stop you, but what meets the threshold of probable cause? It can be anything that the police notice that needs further investigation. For instance, even the slightest traffic infraction can be the bias of a lawful stop. Did you fail to indicate? Was your driving erratic? Were you driving too slowly or too fast?

All these can be reasons to be pulled over, and if the police discover you were drunk driving, any evidence obtained will stand in court. 

There is a lot on the line if you are convicted of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. First, there is the possibility of jail time, not to mention the negative publicity of a conviction. 

Even if the evidence against you may seem airtight, you may be able to mount a successful defense against drunk driving charges. Learn more about your options today.