Simply put, you do not have to be driving your car to be charged with drunk driving. Control of the vehicle is a major issue. Choosing to "sleep it off" in your car will not prevent an arrest from occurring. Nondriving DUI cases are complex, requiring those arrested to seek immediate legal representation to protect their rights.
Utah Criminal Defense Lawyer
At Catherine Cleveland, P.C., I have worked hard in advocating for Salt Lake City residents charged with all levels of DUI. Clients often come to me traumatized and frightened. They thought they were doing the right thing by safely staying in their car, as opposed to driving it while intoxicated. However, their lack of knowledge of the law resulted in an arrest.
As I would with any DUI charge, I investigate the reasons for the officer approaching my client and analyze test results. Breathalyzers can be faulty if poorly calibrated. Blood and urine test samples may have a poor chain of custody. Arresting officers may lack the ability to perform a proper field sobriety test.
Salt Lake City Nondriving DUI Defense Lawyer
Proving whether you did or did not have control of the car is often based on the availability of the keys. Even if you had the best of intentions, keeping the keys in a close proximity could have catastrophic results that include jail time, fines, increased insurance rates and driver's license suspension.
Contact a Salt Lake City Criminal Defense Attorney
To talk with me about the criminal penalties you face following a nondriving DUI arrest, call my Salt Lake City law office for a free initial consultation. I am available by phone at 801-456-2211 or toll free at 877-753-1247. You can also contact me online. Reasonable payment plans are available.
