Three individuals were charged with drunk driving in Dedham, Massachusetts over the weekend. In one of the cases, regarding Christopher Reissfelder, the Dedham police found him standing outside of his car. According to the newspaper report, the police indicate that the defendant slurred his words, was unsteady on his feet and made statements that he was going to jail.
Experienced Massachusetts DUI lawyers can challenge the fairly common statements in police reports that a motorist was unsteady on their feet and had slurred speech. In some cases, officers put these observations into police report out of habit and when challenged in cross examination at a DUI trial reveal that the motorists did not have trouble with balance or communicating with the officer.
Generally, an officer will put in the police report that he noted the motorist had slurred speech, yet at the same time will be able to understand everything said by the driver, have detailed statements of the motorist and will have complete biographical information, suggesting that there was no difficulty communicating with the driver.
The observation of unsteadiness also can be challenged by noting whether the driver was able to get out of the car, walk to the area to take the field sobriety tests, walk into the police station and stand appropriately for the booking photograph and during the instructions when the officer demonstrates the field sobriety tests.
As an experienced Massachusetts DUI lawyer practicing in Dedham and throughout Quincy Massachusetts, Attorney DelSignore is able to challenge the officers observations that a motorist was under the influence of alcohol and to create a strong defense at trial. Attorney DelSignore will take your call immediately and is will arrange for a free consultation. Call 508-455-4755 or 781-686-5924.
