Beating Philadelphia DUI and DWI Charges

Beating Philadelphia DUI and DWI Charges

Getting arrested for DUI or DWI can be scary. Even if you feel wrongly accused, the legal system can seem stacked against you. But with the right legal strategy—and a little luck—you may just beat the charges. This article breaks down some key defenses and tactics that have worked for past clients in Philly courts.

The Deck’s Stacked Against You

Let’s be real – the cops, prosecutors, and judges have handled countless DUI cases. They know all the tricks. And they have the full power of the law behind them to convict you.

So how do you win when the deck’s stacked against you? By having an ace attorney who knows how to play the cards right.

An experienced DUI lawyer understands both the letter of the law and the “unwritten rules” that apply in Philly courts. We know which arguments sway judges versus rub them the wrong way. And we can cite precedents from past cases with similar facts that led to acquittals.

In other words, you need someone in your corner as savvy about the law and legal proceedings as the opposition. With deep expertise specific to Philadelphia DUI and DWI cases.

Top 3 Defenses That Beat DUI Charges

Now let’s get into some key defenses that could poke holes in the prosecution’s case against you. Turning that “guilty verdict” into an acquittal or dropped charges.

#1: No Valid Traffic Stop

Everything stems from the initial traffic stop. If the cops didn’t have proper cause to pull you over in the first place, then any subsequent DUI charges could get thrown out!

Police need “reasonable suspicion” of illegal activity to stop your vehicle. For example, swerving between lanes, driving well below the speed limit, running a red light, etc. Or matching the description for an APB out on a suspect vehicle.

If the traffic stop was unlawful, your attorney can file a “motion to suppress evidence” – including observation of signs of intoxication and results of field sobriety/breathalyzer tests. This evidence gets barred from trial, crippling the DA’s case against you.

#2: Faulty Field Sobriety or Breath Tests

Even with a valid traffic stop, the prosecution still needs proof you were impaired and over the legal BAC limit. Field sobriety and breathalyzer tests provide this evidence to secure DUI convictions.

But the results can be called into question if the tests get administered improperly. Like not following standard procedures – whether by mistake or on purpose to guarantee a failed test.

Your lawyer can scrutinize if the officer made any errors in conducting the tests. And bring in expert testimony challenging the accuracy of your results. Creating enough doubt to overcome the prosecution’s burden of proof for conviction.

#3: Medical Conditions Mimicking Intoxication

You know your own body. And if legit medical issues could explain the supposed “signs of impairment”, this becomes reasonable doubt of DUI.

For instance, conditions like diabetes or inner ear disorders can cause loss of balance, slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, and other red flags. Various meds also carry side effects that mimic intoxication symptoms.

Your attorney can request medical records and provide doctor testimony to back up this defense. Proving an alternate explanation for the perceived impairment other than alcohol or drugs.

Other Winning Tactics and Loopholes

While the above defenses attack the core elements of DUI charges, several other strategies exploit legal loopholes surrounding arrests. Like getting charges reduced or dismissed based on technicalities and procedural missteps.

For example…

• Clerical errors on documents like misstating your name, birthdate, address, etc.
• Missed deadlines for filing paperwork within strict time limits
• Chain of custody issues mishandling blood test samples
• Failure to inform you of “implied consent” laws and repercussions for refusing testing
• Not allowing you to contact a lawyer before testing
• Issues with calibration/maintenance of breathalyzer equipment

An attorney well-versed in DUI proceedings can leverage these bureaucratic blunders to undermine the prosecution’s case. Either getting charges dropped completely or pled down to lesser traffic offenses.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Beating DUI allegations in Philadelphia requires in-depth legal know-how. An experienced lawyer intimately understands both the letter of the law and the unwritten “rules of the game” to secure favorable outcomes.

Unlike the average citizen, attorneys deal with law enforcement and the courts daily. We know their tendencies, dirty tricks, and oversteps firsthand. And can hold the justice system accountable through procedural attacks and appeals to precedent.

Most crucially, a good lawyer believes in your innocence until proven guilty. We won’t assume you’re just another routine DUI offender. But will examine the evidence objectively to build the strongest exoneration case possible.

Put our expertise to work fighting for your freedom. Schedule a free consultation now to discuss the specifics of your arrest and best path forward. With meticulous case preparation and relentless pressure on police and prosecutors, we can beat these unfounded charges together!