Utah DUI Lawyers – Protecting Your Rights in Salt Lake City

Understanding DUI Laws in Utah

• BAC Limit: Utah enforces a 0.05% blood alcohol concentration limit—the lowest in the United States. Even a slight exceedance can trigger a DUI arrest.
• Beyond Alcohol: Impairment from prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, or controlled substances can also result in DUI charges.
• Field Sobriety: Officers often rely on field sobriety tests alongside chemical tests to establish impairment.

Common Misconceptions About DUI Laws

There are many myths surrounding DUI laws that can leave you confused in the aftermath of an arrest:

• Myth: “I Can’t Be Arrested for DUI If I Pass a Breathalyzer.”
• Fact: You can still be charged based on field sobriety tests and officer observations—even if you pass the breath test.
• Myth: “Pleading Guilty Means a Lighter Penalty.”
• Fact: Accepting guilt without exploring all defense options can result in unnecessarily harsh consequences.
• Myth: “A DUI Charge Is a Simple Mistake.”
• Fact: DUI charges carry significant legal ramifications, which is why experienced legal defense is essential.

Why Hiring a DUI Lawyer is Critical

• Evaluate the Evidence: Scrutinize every element—from the initial stop to the breathalyzer test—to identify potential violations.
• Challenge Unreliable Evidence: Question the accuracy of breathalyzer calibration, field sobriety test procedures, or the legality of your stop.
• Negotiate on Your Behalf: Work to secure plea deals or negotiate for reduced charges based on the specifics of your case.

• First-Time Offenders: May face fines, a temporary license suspension, mandatory DUI school, and, in some cases, a short jail term.
• Repeat Offenders: Likely to receive harsher sentences including extended jail time, longer license suspensions, and requirements for ignition interlock devices.

Our Defense Strategies Include:

• Negotiating plea deals when appropriate
• Suppressing evidence obtained through improper procedures
• Highlighting any violations of your constitutional rights

What to Expect in the DUI Legal Process

1. Arrest & Initial Processing: You’ll be taken into custody and booked, and initial evidence (like breathalyzer results) will be collected.
2. Court Hearings: Your case will move to court where you may have opportunities to negotiate plea deals or contest the charges.
3. Sentencing or Dismissal: Depending on the outcome of hearings and negotiations, you could face sentencing or, in some cases, have your charges reduced or dismissed.

• Faulty Breathalyzer Calibration: Testing devices must be calibrated correctly; errors here can undermine the prosecution’s evidence.
• Improper Traffic Stop: If the initial stop violated your rights, evidence obtained thereafter may be suppressed.
• Inconsistent Field Sobriety Results: Inconsistencies in how sobriety tests are administered or interpreted can cast doubt on the charge.
• Violation of Miranda Rights: If your rights were not read or respected during the arrest process, this could provide grounds for dismissal.

Choosing the Right DUI Lawyer

• Experience: Look for an attorney who has handled numerous DUI cases; at Wasatch Defense Lawyers, our team has over 650 trials under its belt.
• Local Knowledge: An expert who understands the nuances of Utah DUI laws and local DMV procedures.
• Proven Results: A track record of successful dismissals, charge reductions, and client satisfaction.

Why Choose Wasatch Defense Lawyers?

• Top-Rated Reviews: We have the most 5-star reviews among criminal defense firms in Utah.
• Proven Case Results: Our strategic defense has led to numerous dismissals and reduced charges.
• 24/7 Availability: We’re here whenever you need us—day or night.
• Free Consultations: Get a no-obligation case review to understand your legal options immediately.