Facing a DUI charge in Farmington, NM or anywhere in San Juan County can be overwhelming. At the Victor Titus Law Firm, we understand the gravity of your situation and are here to provide the experienced legal representation you need. If you’re in this situation, you might be wondering what an attorney can do for you. While this isn’t a comprehensive list, these are some of things I look for in defending your case:

Challenging Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs):

Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs) are the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN), Walk-and-Turn (WAT), and One-Leg Stand (OLS), which are commonly used by law enforcement in New Mexico. However, these tests are not infallible. Our firm will scrutinize the administration of these tests, considering factors such as:

The officer’s training and ability to properly administer the tests
Environmental conditions (e.g., uneven pavement, inappropriate footwear)
Your medical conditions or medications that could affect balance or coordination

Examining the Legality of the Traffic Stop:

A crucial aspect of DUI defense is assessing whether the initial traffic stop was lawful. We will investigate:

Whether there was reasonable suspicion to initiate the stop
If the stop was based on behavior that isn’t illegal
Dashcam footage that may contradict the officer’s claims
If the officer expanded the encounter beyond reason for initial stop

Analyzing Chemical Testing and Implied Consent:

Under New Mexico law, drivers must be advised of their rights when asked to submit to chemical testing of either breath or blood. However, Miranda Warnings including the right to remain silent or right to have a lawyer do not apply in a DUI investigation prior to arrest. Our firm will evaluate:

Whether the officer read the correct advisory form
If the required 20-minute observation period was observed before administering a breath test
The certification and maintenance records of the testing device (e.g., Intoxilyzer 9000)
If the test result complied with all state laws or regulations.

Assessing Officer Conduct and Observations:

Subjective observations by officers, such as the smell of alcohol or slurred speech, can be challenged. We will consider alternative explanations for these observations, including:

Medical conditions or fatigue causing bloodshot eyes or unsteady gait
Non-alcoholic substances mimicking the smell of alcohol

Why Choose Victor Titus Law Firm:

With over 40 years of legal experience, Victor Titus has built a reputation as a formidable advocate for his clients. The Victor Titus Law Firm offers:

Extensive courtroom experience and familiarity with the local legal system
Personalized legal strategies tailored to each client’s unique situation
A proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes in DUI cases

Contact Us:

If you are facing DUI charges in Farmington or the surrounding areas, don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Contact the Victor Titus Law Firm at (505) 326-6503 or visit our office at 2021 E. 20th Street, Farmington, NM 87401, for a free initial consultation.

Note: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized legal guidance, call our firm today.

What to Expect if You’ve Been Charged with DUI in Farmington, NM — and How Victor Titus Law Firm Can Challenge the Evidence