What to Expect During a Los Angeles DUI Investigation
Los Angeles DUI investigation usually consists of 3 parts.
- During the first part, the police observes the driving of the driver and note their observation for future police report.
- During the second part, the police observe how the driver does on voluntary field sobriety tests.
- During the third part, the police will take the driver to a station and take his breath or blood for alcohol testing.
Here’s a structured, expanded version of the blog post with clear subtopics:
What to Expect During a Los Angeles DUI Investigation
If you are stopped on suspicion of driving under the influence in Los Angeles, it is crucial to understand the steps officers take during a DUI investigation. Law enforcement follows a structured process that begins with observations of your driving and behavior and often escalates to field sobriety tests and chemical testing. Knowing your rights and how to respond in these situations can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
As an experienced Los Angeles DUI Attorney, I have helped many clients challenge unfair arrests and flawed evidence. This blog will walk you through the phases of a DUI investigation and explain why it is often best to remain silent and refuse voluntary field sobriety tests.
Step 1: The Initial Observation – How Police Detect DUI
The first stage of a DUI investigation begins the moment an officer notices a driver’s behavior. Police officers look for specific driving patterns that they believe indicate impairment, such as:
- Swerving between lanes
- Driving too fast or too slow
- Failing to signal
- Sudden braking without cause
- Running stop signs or red lights
Once an officer initiates a stop, they will assess the driver’s physical and verbal cues, looking for signs such as:
- Slurred speech
- Bloodshot or watery eyes
- The smell of alcohol on breath or clothing
- Slow or uncoordinated movements
- Nervousness or confusion
A Los Angeles DUI Attorney knows that many of these so-called indicators of intoxication are unreliable. Fatigue, allergies, medication, or even nerves can cause similar symptoms. However, once an officer believes they have enough reason to suspect DUI, they will proceed to the next step: questioning.
Step 2: Police Questioning – Should You Answer?
After pulling you over, the officer will likely ask a series of questions to gather more evidence against you. Common questions include:
- “Have you been drinking tonight?”
- “How many drinks have you had?”
- “Where are you coming from?”
- “When was your last drink?”
A Los Angeles DUI Attorney strongly advises against answering these questions. Any response, no matter how harmless it seems, can be used against you in court. Police officers are trained to document every word you say, and even an innocent statement can be twisted into an admission of guilt.
Instead of answering, politely state:
“I respectfully decline to answer any questions without my attorney present.”
This response is legally protected, and officers cannot force you to speak. It is always best to exercise your right to remain silent.
Step 3: Field Sobriety Tests – A Flawed and Subjective Process
If an officer believes you may be under the influence, they will likely ask you to perform Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs). These tests are designed to evaluate coordination, balance, and cognitive function. The most common tests include:
- The Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) Test – Following an object with your eyes
- The Walk-and-Turn Test – Walking heel-to-toe in a straight line
- The One-Leg Stand Test – Standing on one foot for a set time
While these tests may seem straightforward, they are highly subjective and often unreliable. Officers are looking for any slight mistake to justify an arrest. Even if you are completely sober, you may fail due to factors like:
- Fatigue or anxiety
- Uneven road surfaces
- Poor footwear (such as heels or sandals)
- Medical conditions affecting balance
Are You Required to Take Field Sobriety Tests?
No. Field sobriety tests are voluntary in California. You are not legally required to take them.
A skilled Los Angeles DUI Attorney recommends refusing these tests. Officers will rarely let you go even if you perform well, so participating only gives them more ammunition to use against you in court.
If an officer asks you to do FSTs, simply say:
“I respectfully decline to take any field sobriety tests.”
Step 4: The Arrest – What Happens Next?
If the officer believes they have enough evidence, they will place you under arrest for DUI. This can be a stressful and intimidating moment, but it is critical to remain calm and avoid making any statements.
At this stage, you will be taken to a police station or testing facility, where you will be asked to submit to a breath or blood test. Unlike field sobriety tests, these chemical tests are mandatory under California’s Implied Consent Law. Refusing them can lead to:
- A one-year driver’s license suspension
- Increased penalties if convicted
- Additional charges for refusal
However, chemical tests are not foolproof. A Los Angeles DUI Attorney can challenge breathalyzer and blood test results based on improper calibration, officer error, or medical conditions that may affect the readings.
How a Los Angeles DUI Attorney Can Defend Your Case
If you are arrested for DUI, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. A Los Angeles DUI Attorney can:
✅ Review the evidence for inconsistencies and errors
✅ Challenge the legality of the traffic stop
✅ Question the reliability of field sobriety and chemical test results
✅ Negotiate for reduced charges or case dismissal
✅ Represent you in court and fight for your rights
Every DUI case is unique, and with the right legal strategy, many drivers avoid the harshest penalties.
Contact a Los Angeles DUI Attorney for a Free Consultation
Facing a DUI charge can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our office provides aggressive DUI defense at affordable rates, and we offer a free consultation to discuss your case.
Call Los Angeles DUI Attorney today directly at (323) 464-6424 to protect your future!
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