If you’ve been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in New Jersey, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed, confused, and maybe even a little hopeless. But the truth is, a DUI charge does not automatically mean a conviction. In fact, depending on the circumstances of your DUI arrest, there may be several strong defenses available to challenge the charges—and possibly avoid harsh penalties.
Every DUI case is unique, and the best defense strategy will always depend on the specific facts surrounding your arrest. That’s why it’s critical to speak with an experienced Morris County DUI lawyer as soon as possible. But to give you a sense of what’s possible, here are some of the most effective DUI defenses used in New Jersey.
The Best Defenses Against DUI Charges
The Traffic Stop Was Illegal
Before a police officer can stop your vehicle, they must have a legitimate reason to do so—such as speeding, swerving, or having a broken tail light. If you were pulled over without probable cause, any evidence collected afterward, including results from field sobriety tests or breathalyzers, may be thrown out. This is known as an illegal stop, and it’s one of the most powerful ways to challenge a DUI case. If your rights were violated from the very beginning, the entire case could be dismissed.
Even if the officer had a reason to stop you, they must also follow strict legal procedures during the stop. For example, they can’t force you to take a field sobriety test, and they can’t arrest you based solely on a “hunch.” These procedural errors can be crucial in building a strong defense.
The Breathalyzer or Blood Test Was Invalid
Breathalyzer machines are far from perfect. They must be properly calibrated and maintained regularly. If they’re not, the results could be inaccurate. Even minor issues—such as radio frequency interference, operator error, or a medical condition like acid reflux—can affect the reading and produce a falsely high blood alcohol concentration (BAC). An attorney can request records to determine whether the device used in your case was functioning properly at the time.
Blood tests, while often considered more accurate, also have their weaknesses. If the sample was not stored correctly, contaminated, or mishandled at any point, the results may be invalid. These types of scientific challenges require expert review, but they can be incredibly effective when pursued thoroughly.
Your Behavior Was Misinterpreted
You might be surprised to learn how subjective a DUI arrest can be. Officers often rely on physical signs like red eyes, slurred speech, or unsteady movement to determine if someone is intoxicated. But many of these signs can have innocent explanations. Fatigue, allergies, medical conditions, or even stress from being pulled over can cause symptoms that mimic impairment.
Likewise, field sobriety tests are notoriously unreliable. Conditions such as uneven pavement, poor lighting, or the type of shoes you were wearing can easily affect your performance. If your behavior was misinterpreted or the tests were administered incorrectly, your lawyer can challenge the validity of the arrest.
Don’t assume the worst; fight back with the right defense. If you have additional questions or you’ve been charged with a DUI and need a skilled attorney in your corner, simply contact Macri Law today.
