Why You Need a PI for your DUI Case.
Facing a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge can be a daunting experience. A conviction can result in severe consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. However, all hope is not lost, and a private investigator (PI) could play a pivotal role in helping you build a strong defense. While defense lawyers are essential for legal representation, private investigators can provide valuable support by gathering crucial evidence and uncovering critical details that may not be apparent at first glance. Here’s how a private investigator can assist in defending your DUI case.
Reconstructing the Incident.
One of the most significant ways a private investigator can help is by thoroughly reviewing and reconstructing the events surrounding the DUI arrest. Often, crucial details of the stop or arrest can be overlooked or misreported. PIs can thoroughly review police reports, observe surveillance footage from nearby cameras, and even inspect the location for possible inaccuracies or inconsistencies in the officer’s report.
For instance, if your arrest occurred at an intersection or on a poorly lit road, a PI could determine if there were any external factors—such as weather conditions, road hazards, or malfunctioning traffic lights—that could have contributed to your driving behavior, potentially enhancing your case.
Investigating Police Procedure.
Private investigators are skilled in analyzing police procedures and identifying any violations or irregularities in the way the arrest was handled. In DUI cases, law enforcement officers must follow strict protocols when administering field sobriety tests, breathalyzer tests, or blood tests. If there were any errors in these procedures—such as a false reason for a traffic stop, lack of proper training in administering tests, or improper handling of the breathalyzer—a PI can uncover this information, which could be pivotal in challenging the evidence against you.
For example, if a PI uncovers that the breathalyzer was improperly calibrated or that the officer failed to follow standard operating procedures, your attorney may be able to use this as a basis for challenging the reliability of the test results in court.
Identifying Medical Conditions or Factors.
Certain medical conditions or external factors can affect a person’s ability to pass field sobriety tests or yield misleading results in breathalyzer tests. For instance, conditions like diabetes, acid reflux, or even a high-fat diet can cause a person to exhibit signs that might be mistaken for intoxication, such as slurred speech, unsteady movements, or an unusual breath odor.
A private investigator can work with medical professionals to investigate if any of these conditions were present at the time of your arrest. If a medical condition contributed to your behavior or test results, this could be crucial evidence in your defense.
Establishing a Pattern of Behavior.
In some cases, a private investigator might be able to identify a pattern of behavior or to gather additional context for your DUI case. If there’s evidence that you had been sober and well-functioning before your arrest, or if there’s evidence of your good character (such as responsible driving habits), a PI could help document this information, potentially influencing how the court views your case.
Furthermore, PIs often work multiple DUI cases from the same department or specific officer. A PI might also be able to identify patterns or shortcomings in a specific officer or department that become apparent across multiples cases.
Preparing for Trial
If your case goes to trial, the private investigator can assist your defense attorney by gathering and organizing evidence, preparing witnesses, and even providing testimony about the findings from their investigation. A well-prepared defense team, including a skilled private investigator, can increase the chances of a favorable outcome in court.
Why You Need Zaitz Investigations for Your DUI Case.
Zaitz Investigations can be an invaluable asset when defending against a DUI charge. By providing a fresh perspective, uncovering inconsistencies, and gathering evidence that could be crucial to your case, we can help to ensure that all the facts are considered before a judgment is made. While we cannot guarantee that your charges will be dismissed, our investigative work can often make the difference between a conviction and a successful defense. We have investigators trained in Basic DWI/DUI Detection & Standardized Field Sobriety, Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement, and a certified Drug Recognition Expert. Armed with this, we have not only the experience of having investigated hundreds of successful DUI defenses, but also the training and knowledge to make an unparalleled impact in your case.
Furthermore, Zaitz Investigations distinguishes itself by having an in-house investigator who is professionally trained in graphic design. Having a graphic designer for your case can provide a significant advantage in presenting complex information in a clear and visually compelling way. We can create detailed visual aids, such as timelines, maps, and infographics, which can simplify intricate data and help highlight critical connections between events, people, or locations. We can also assist in the creation of enhanced images from surveillance footage, photography, or drones, helping to bring your case to life. These visuals can be crucial in court presentations, providing a more accessible understanding of the case. Additionally, we can ensure that all documentation and materials are professionally polished, which can strengthen the overall credibility and impact of the investigation.
If you’re facing DUI charges, it’s important to consult with both an experienced DUI attorney and Zaitz Investigations to give yourself the best possible chance of a positive outcome.