Field sobriety testing is a well-known component of many drunk driving traffic stops. If police officers suspect that someone is under the influence, they may ask that driver to exit their vehicle. The officer may then instruct them to perform a series of three tests....
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Drunk Driving
What happens to a driver’s license after a DUI arrest?
Although most people know that drunk driving is illegal, many people don't realize they are drunk before they drive. Particularly when people enjoy alcohol regularly, they may become accustomed to its effects or struggle to estimate their own impairment after...
When can Illinois police officers lawfully request or require a breath test?
Sometimes, drivers immediately understand why a police officer has pulled them over. They may have a burned-out brake light or be aware that their speed is inappropriately high. Other times, they don't know an officer's intention for the traffic stop until they...
Are sobriety checkpoints or DUI roadblocks legal in Illinois?
Someone who is arrested for a driving under the influence (DUI) offense in Illinois may have questions about the legality of their situation. Sometimes, the most effective components of someone's defense strategy directly relate to the misconduct of police officers....
Dangers of social media for criminal defendants
If you are like most people, you spend a lot of time on social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Tik-tok and more. There is nothing wrong with using these platforms to connect with your loved ones or speak about issues that are important to you. If the...
3 things you never want to say during a DUI traffic stop
When a traffic stop turns into an investigation about whether you’re driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol, it’s not unusual to be on edge – and nerves can make someone unintentionally chatty. That’s a problem, however, when everything you say can (and...
The financial penalties of a ticket make fighting it worthwhile
When a police officer issues a traffic ticket, they accuse the driver involved of violating Illinois state law. Traffic violations are usually civil infractions unless they are more serious offenses like impaired driving or reckless driving. For the most part, traffic...
Why do police officers make you perform field sobriety tests?
If you admit to having something to drink during a traffic stop or if a police officer suspects you of impairment because of your recent maneuver, they may ask you to perform a field sobriety test. You have to get out of the vehicle and follow the officer's...
Are DUI checkpoints illegal?
Just because the police choose to do something does not mean that it is legal. For instance, if they search your home without consent or a warrant, that’s an illegal search in all but rare cases -- such as an active crime. If they racially profile you and arrest you...
How often do Breathalyzer tests need to be recalibrated?
Calibration should be a hot topic if you’ve been accused of a DUI after taking a Breathalyzer test. All Breathalyzer tests used in a legal capacity should be calibrated in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications. If a Breathalyzer has not been calibrated,...