The star of The Hills, Stephanie Pratt was arrested for DUI in Hollywood, California. According to news accounts, it appears that Pratt has a strong case as the news reports from the officers state that it was a basic DUI arrest and that Pratt was polite and cooperative at the scene.
A successful DUI defense in Massachusetts involves emphasizing all of the normal and appropriate actions of the motorist. Most officers will acknowledge that some drunk drivers are uncooperative and belligerent and have sharp mood swings. A driver that is polite and cooperative with the police, shows normal reaction to the situation, demonstrates characteristics that are consistent with sobriety. While a good demeanor alone will not ensure an acquittal, it is an example of a normal response of the motorist that is inconsistent with someone under the influence.
Generally, officers fail to mention anything in the police report during booking and in making the arrest. At booking an officer will have significant time to observe a DUI suspect and the lack of any observations regarding impairment undermine the opinion made at the scene that the driver was under the influence.
As an experienced Massachusetts DUI lawyer, Attorney DelSignore has cross examined numerous police officers throughout Massachusetts and has successfully excluded breathalyzer evidence from being heard at trial. Attorney DelSignore will explain your defenses, the potential penalties and license implications of a conviction and help you understand your DUI defenses.
