Field Sobriety Tests In Van Nuys, CA
Defense From Los Angeles DUI Attorney Scott Spindel
When you are pulled over on suspicion of DUI, there are many types of tests which may be used to determine if you are intoxicated beyond the legal limit. Many members of law enforcement use field sobriety tests as though they are solid evidence, even though they are quite subjective.
These tests are intended to evaluate your attention and motor skills, but there are a variety of other factors which can affect them besides drinking alcohol. If you have been arrested after performing field sobriety tests, reach out to a Van Nuys DUI attorney from Law Offices of Scott R. Spindel.
Field Sobriety Tests vs. Standardized Field Sobriety Tests
If you are deciding whether or not to submit to these exercises, you should know these tests are highly subjective and only three have been “standardized” and “validated," while the remaining exercises are even more unreliable and unsupported as accurate for the detection of alcohol impairment.
The standardized field sobriety tests include:
- Nystagmus (horizontal and vertical gaze)
- Walk and turn
- One leg stand
Other field sobriety tests which may be used include:
- Rhomberg balance test
- Finger to nose
- Finger count
- Hand pat
- Alphabet test
- Counting test
Do I Have To Submit To Field Sobriety Tests?
No, you do not have to submit to field sobriety tests. What most people don’t know is that these tests are not mandatory, but can lead to your arrest and add to the evidence stacked against you. If you are not educated on your rights, law enforcement officials may use the results of the tests to justify your arrest and to accumulate evidence to be used against you in court or at the DMV.
You do have rights when asked to submit to a field sobriety test and it is often in your best interest to exercise these rights. Since the officer is typically only looking for evidence to back up his or her decision to arrest you, this does not give you good reason to submit.
If you would like to speak with a Van Nuys DUI attorney who is dedicated to your needs and is available to you 24/7/365, please contact our office at (818) 797-9212.
We Fight For Our Clients
Hear What They Have To Say
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"Scott is a rock star – I highly recommend him"Through my company I have worked with thousands of attorneys over the last 19 years, and Scott Spindel stands out as one of the best. He cares about his clients, responds in a timely manner, is vigilant with his evaluation of evidence, is wildly smart, and is awesome in trial -- the jury loves him -- which is crucial for a successful defense attorney. With this amazing combination of skills and gifts, you will not find a better attorney to represent you.- David
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"Reassuring confidence."When I got my DUI I was in complete disarray. Between my family, business, and future, I was having trouble sleeping due to constant anxiety. Not only was I involved in an accident, but I had an extremely high BAC. Needless to say, I feared for the worst. After talking with 3 separate lawyers, I then met with Scott, who after 1 meeting I knew he was the right attorney for me. Not only did Scott manage to keep me out of jail, but he was also able to reduce my alcohol program from 9 months to 6 months which is rare for BAC as high as mine was. If you're having concerns, or questions about which attorney you should use, please meet with Scott. I promise you that he'll definitely not disappoint!- Jarrod
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"Excellent Service"After my second DUI in 5 years, I needed a lawyer. I hired Scott because he made me feel confident with my case and I was right in hiring him. He helped me throughout the whole process, allowed me to email him anytime with any questions, and reassured me when I needed it the most. He is a very educated man and did an excellent job handeling my case. I would recommend hiring Scott if you are ever caught in my kind of situation.- anonymous
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"Compassionate and Diligent!!!"Scott was so caring and supportive throughout the entire process. I thought my DUI was going to ruin things for my family and work but Scott got it dramatically reduced both in record and financially. Even though I made some mistakes in the process, Scott graciously corrected my mishaps and made everything virtually painless! He has also represented and coached others I know through some very harrowing legal situations with amazingly positive results.- Kristen
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"BEYOND GRATEFUL"I am beyond grateful with Mr. Scott Spindel for not only giving me peace of mind but answers to my questions in a time when I felt extremely anxious and overwhelmed. I happened to find him while browsing online and I am so glad that I did!!! He went out of his way to help me and made the necessary phone calls I needed regarding a matter even before knowing whether I would need legal counsel or not. Who do does that?! Scott did!! I hope his efforts don’t go about unnoticed I am truly amazed by how caring and helpful he was with me. I definitely will give him a call if I need an attorney down the road :) & would definitely recommend to anyone. Thank you so much Scott!!!- Nancy
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"CHARGES: FELON IN POSSESSION | DISPOSITION: SENTENCE REDUCED"I wanted to let you know how much I appreciate everything you have done for me. I know with my record I was very lucky to receive the deal that I got. There’s not too many lawyers that take the time out and really deal with their clients, but you have done a remarkable job. I just wish there were more lawyers like you. I just wanted to let you know that your work is appreciated.- A.K.
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"CHARGES: POSSESSION OF DRUGS FOR SALE | DISPOSITION: CASE DISMISSED – REFILED – CASE DISMISSED"Thank you for seeing Alex’s case through not only one victory but two! A skilled and dedicated attorney makes all the difference; certainly, no one can say that we do not know this first hand. Alex has truly benefitted from your level of expertise, which we can attest, is a cut above. We, therefore, wished to express our sincerest gratitude for your level of dedication to the case and your hard work. Scott, as a result of "this" experience, Alex has greatly matured. For one, his immediate goal to focus on his studies and to detach himself from the friends who are not of the best influence have resulted in his recent honor student status and his making more responsible, educated decisions. He also has become determined and focused on matters that are important to his growth as an individual; your belief in Alex and the work that you have done on his behalf played a significant role in myriad ways including a change in his depth of personal perspectives and character. Thank you again, Scott. You are truly skilled in every way an attorney can be to make a difference. We recommend you highly and deeply appreciate your counsel, advocacy and friendship.- C. & A.K.
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"CHARGES: DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE | DISPOSITION: CASE DISMISSED"All I can say is, thank you - thank you -thank you. Thank you for stopping your ski run on the side of the mountain in Idaho to discuss my case during our first phone conversation. Thank you for your professionalism. Thank you for being up-front and honest. Thank you for exceeding my expectations, and then some. THANK GOD for your knowledge of the law. Finally, thanks for just being a bro during these trying times. Hope to never need your services again, hehe.- DR. P.
