Should I take the test?
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF ASKED TO TAKE FIELD SOBRIETY TESTS?
There is no legal
requirement to take any field sobriety tests and as such, you should never take them.
These are subjective tests that are only 65%-77% correct when
administered in perfect conditions, administered exactly as designed
and evaluated impartially.
The Officer ALREADY THINKS YOU ARE INTOXICATED—why else would they
request you take the test? An officer who already is biased against you
is the one who will be ‘grading’ your performance. In America you DO
NOT HAVE TO PROVE YOUR INNOCENCE---- it is the Officer’s duty to prove
your guilt. You have no obligation to do his job or help at this
point.
The best response is to ask the officer "Am I REQUIRED to take these
tests?” The honest answer is no. Any other answer could leave a jury
with the impression the officer is deceptive. At this point tell the
officer that you would like to talk to an attorney before deciding what
to do.
The Officer most likely will refuse your request but there is a huge
difference between refusing to take the tests and asking to talk to an
attorney before making your decision.
Please
note----the refusal discussed above applies to the Field
Sobriety Test only. Refusal
of the Breath Test is a different issue with different rules.
Bruce Edge, Tulsa DUI Lawyer
Board Certified in DUI Defense under ABA guidelines
918-582-6333
1-877-DUI-EDGE
Bruce@EdgeLawFirm.com
Let us relieve this stressful time