Why is an SFST Training Beneficial for DUI Lawyers?
SFST, abbreviated for Standardized Field Sobriety Tests, are certain assessments that law enforcement officials use to make sure whether a driver is intoxicated or is under the influence of drugs. And for those of you who don’t know, these tests are considered evidence that cops can use to charge you with a DUI.
Despite that, SFSTs are not void of flaws! They have to be administered in a specific way by a trained individual to make sure that the results are valid. That’s exactly why our expert Pittsburgh DUI attorneys at Logue Law Group often challenge the outcomes of SFSTs, as they are aware of the erroneous outcomes.
And that’s exactly the reason why SFST training can be utterly beneficial for a lawyer!
Why are SFSTs Considered Unreliable?
SFSTs are a mandatory part of DUI training for the cops. However, they are still considered to be unreliable because of the following factors-
Errors in interpretation
The results of these sobriety tests often depend upon how the administering officer is interpreting it. Any errors in judgment, therefore, can lead to wrongful arrests and convictions.
Lack of transparency
Although cops receive training, not everyone conducts or administers the tests in the right way. On top of that, many officers might not explain the implications and the results of the tests to the driver. This lack of transparency creates a whole lot of confusion.
Emotional factors
If the concerned person is suffering from anxiety, fatigue, or nervousness, the tests can render false positive results, which can result in wrongful arrests.
How Does an SFST Training Benefit a Lawyer?
It is highly beneficial for a lawyer to get trained in SFSTs. Here are the reasons why-
- A Pittsburgh DUI attorney who has undergone an SFST training can better understand the indications of impaired driving. So, if the cops pulled you over wrongfully, they can effectively challenge the stop.
- An SFST training can also help a lawyer determine mistakes or oversights that might have occurred while administering the tests, which might lead to erroneous results. And this can help them move for a dismissal or reduction of the charges.
- The knowledge gained from an SFST training can also help a Pittsburgh DUI attorney to craft a robust defense strategy and effectively challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution. For instance, a trained lawyer can challenge the sanctity of the breathalyzer tests or field sobriety tests, which can eventually lead to a more favorable outcome for the defendant party.
- Another crucial benefit of a lawyer being trained in SFST is that the professional will have a better chance of negotiating with the prosecution. Even if the defendant is guilty, a trained Pittsburgh DUI attorney can still secure a plea deal and help to effectively reduce or mitigate the charges to a lesser charge or penalty. This can be an essential move, as it might help a defendant avoid losing driving privileges or acquiring points on their license.
Wrapping Up
A failed field sobriety test or a breathalyzer test doesn’t necessarily mean you were intoxicated! It might be a false positive. So, if you feel that you’ve been wrongfully charged with a DUI based on these tests, make sure to contact us at Logue Law Group immediately. Our expert Pittsburgh DUI attorneys are trained in these NHTSA-approved courses and can offer you the best guidance to ensure a favorable outcome. Call us at 412-387-6901 to book a free consultation ASAP.