Know Your Rights When Refusing A Field Sobriety Test
If police pull you over for suspicion of driving under the influence, chances are they will ask you to undergo a field sobriety test. If you refuse to take a field sobriety test, it’s essential to understand the implications of doing so and how that could affect your case. Attorney Colleen M. Kirby at the Law Office Of Colleen M. Kirby, Esq., in Columbia, Maryland, can serve as your legal guide if you find yourself in a situation where you refuse a field sobriety test. She can help you understand your rights, protect your interests and make critical decisions surrounding your case.
To learn more about what she and her team can do for you, call her office at 410-973-0572.
Consequences For Refusing A Test Can Differ From A DUI Charge
In Maryland, refusing a field sobriety test can lead to consequences similar to facing a DUI charge. While you have the right to refuse, this decision may trigger administrative penalties, such as a license suspension, under implied consent laws. So while refusing a breath test does not lead to a criminal charge, it can complicate your case.
Field Sobriety Test Refusal FAQs
These are the common questions Colleen tends to hear quite often:
What are the consequences of refusing a field sobriety test in Maryland?
Refusing a field sobriety test in Maryland can lead to a driver’s license suspension under Maryland’s implied consent laws. You could also face an administrative hearing to address this suspension. While refusal is not a criminal offense, it has significant implications for your DUI case. This is why having a seasoned Maryland DUI lawyer to help you is so important.
Can refusing a field sobriety test hurt my DUI case in Maryland?
Yes, refusing a field sobriety test can hurt your DUI case in Maryland. While you can legally refuse a field sobriety test, a prosecutor may argue that refusing the test could indicate an admission of guilt.
Do I have to take a field sobriety test in Maryland?
No, you do not have to take a field sobriety test in Maryland. However, refusing to take one can result in significant penalties, such as license suspension.
Protect Your Rights With Experienced Legal Support
Understanding the consequences of refusing a field sobriety test is crucial, especially when your future depends on it. For more on how Colleen and her team can help you, schedule a free consultation today. You can do so by calling her at 410-973-0572 or by completing the firm’s online contact form.