Aiden Belville
1 month ago
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Driving under the influence is a serious criminal charge in Minnesota. If you or a loved one has been charged with driving under the influence (DUI), it is important to understand the types of evidence that could be used in your case. In fact, understanding the evidence that can be used in a trial is essential for preparing a strong legal defense. Each piece of evidence can significantly impact the outcome of a case.
Minnesota law sets specific blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits that determine when a driver is considered impaired, 0.08% for most drivers and 0.04% for commercial drivers. In court, the prosecution will present evidence suggesting that your blood alcohol concentration was above the legal limit. Our DUI attorneys are knowledgeable about the common types of evidence used in Minnesota DUI cases and could help you leverage that evidence to protect your rights.
A police officer’s observations may be used in court in an attempt to prove that an individual was driving under the influence. These observations may include:
An officer in Minnesota may also use the results of field sobriety tests as evidence in DUI cases and present them in the courtroom. These include the walk-and-turn test, one-leg stand test, and horizontal gaze nystagmus test.
One thing to keep in mind is that an officer’s observations are subjective. Additionally, medical conditions and environmental factors could affect the results of an FST. For this reason, an attorney may be able to argue that the results of these tests are not significant.
An officer may administer a preliminary breath test on the side of the road at the time the defendant is pulled over. This breath test is often used to establish probable cause and to justify an arrest. One thing to keep in mind is that these early breath tests may not be used in court to prove guilt, but they can be used to justify an arrest and a test later. These tests may not be as reliable as chemical testing, which is something a defense attorney could argue if the breath test and chemical test show different results.
Evidence used in DUI cases in Minnesota also includes several types of chemical tests performed later at the police station. These tests may include a breathalyzer, which must be certified and calibrated in order to be used in court. The biggest problems with chemical testing evidence involve the chain of custody. Contamination or improper handling can be linked to errors and inaccuracies in testing.
Driver statements can also be used as evidence in a Minnesota DUI case. These statements can include anything the defendant says during the stop, booking, or interrogation. Saying something as simple as “I only had one glass of wine” can be used as evidence. For this reason, lawyers advise against answering any questions. Anything a driver says can and will be used in court.
An attorney could analyze procedural errors and review test results as needed. They could challenge probable cause and stop legality, and advocate for minimizing penalties whenever possible.
Understanding the evidence used in Minnesota DUI cases is crucial for your case. If you are facing DUI charges, contact a lawyer to begin assessing the types of evidence involved. Call today for a consultation.
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