DUI Lawyers In Norman, Oklahoma
When Facing DUI Charges, You Need Effective Representation
If you’ve been pulled over for a DUI, it is imperative that you speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Schumacher Law Group has represented clients throughout Oklahoma for over 25 years. Our founding attorney, Tracy Schumacher, is a former judge and prosecutor for the district attorney’s office. Her unique knowledge is used to help clients navigate the complex legal system, and gain favorable outcomes for their cases.
Tenacious DUI Attorneys By Your Side
Notably, in 2019, the laws surrounding DUI charges in Oklahoma changed. There are no longer implied consent hearings. A first offense can result in a license revocation for six months. It is also possible that you will have to install an ignition interlock system in your vehicle. After a second or third arrest, the penalties become even more severe, at this point many people incur steep fines and years behind bars. We work within the criminal justice system to find alternative restitution for DUI offenses. When taken to trial, we seek favorable pleas with prosecutors or favorable verdicts from juries. This is why it is important to have someone who understands the law on your side; put your trust in the expertise of our criminal defense attorneys at Schumacher Law Group.
How We Challenge Each Aspect Of A DUI
Prosecutors can present the evidence as if it is conclusive, but we meticulously analyze each aspect of your case to identify weaknesses and create opportunities for a strong defense. Here are some of the key areas we examine:
- Examining breathalyzer test reliability: Breath tests are a common tool in DUI cases but are not infallible. Issues such as device miscalibration, improper maintenance or incorrect test administration can lead to inaccurate results. Our attorneys carefully review the equipment records and procedures used, looking for any discrepancies that could challenge the validity of the breath test results.
- Analyzing the traffic stop’s legality: For a DUI stop to be legal, police must have “reasonable suspicion” that you have committed a traffic violation or are driving under the influence. Stops made at DUI checkpoints are the only exception to this rule. If the officer did not have sufficient grounds for pulling you over, we can argue that the stop was illegal, which could lead to crucial evidence being dismissed.
- Investigating blood test accuracy and chain of custody: Blood tests can be presented as strong evidence, but we can challenge their accuracy. Timing, storage conditions and the qualifications of those handling the sample are critical to the test’s reliability. We also scrutinize the chain of custody, the documentation that tracks the sample from collection to testing, to ensure there were no contamination, tampering or mislabeling opportunities.
- Questioning the validity of field sobriety tests (FSTs): Field sobriety tests are designed to assess physical coordination and cognitive function but can be unreliable indicators of impairment. Many factors, such as medical conditions, fatigue or environmental conditions, can lead to a failed test even if the driver is sober. Our team investigates how your FSTs were conducted, looking for any signs of improper administration or unfair assessments.
Every DUI case is unique, and the defenses that apply will vary based on your specific situation. At Schumacher Law Group, we develop a custom defense strategy that challenges the prosecution’s evidence at every turn.
The Benefit Of Working With A Former Judge And Prosecutor
It’s a rare opportunity to work with a DUI defense lawyer who has also served as a judge and prosecutor. Lawyer Tracy Schumacher knows how to address DUI cases from all of these angles. Her experience in each of these roles gives her an insider’s understanding of how best to represent clients facing DUI charges. She understands all aspects of the proceedings, the law and the strategic maneuvers that are most likely to result in a successful resolution.