DWI Defense with Jack Rice: Safeguarding Your Rights in St. Paul and Ramsey County
Nobody wants to see this: you are driving somewhere in St. Paul or any where in Ramsey County and you find yourself pulled over on a quiet road, the red and blue lights of a squad car flashing behind you. An officer approaches and requests that you perform a series of field sobriety tests—tasks you’ve never practiced in such high-pressure circumstances. This overwhelming scenario is one that many individuals encounter in St. Paul, Roseville, Maplewood, White Bear Lake, Vadnais Heights, and throughout Ramsey County daily. If you've been charged with DWI, having an experienced attorney like Jack Rice on your side is crucial for protecting your rights and your future.
“Don’t tackle this without guidance. The consequences can last for years and you need to know what is coming at you.”
Understanding Field Sobriety Tests in St. Paul and Ramsey County
Officers often expect almost perfect performance on field sobriety tests, even when the conditions aren’t favorable. Its also critical to remember that a lack of perfection doesn’t necessarily mean you’re drunk.
What Are Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFST)?
Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFST) are a series of assessments used by law enforcement in St. Paul and across Ramsey County to determine if a driver is impaired by alcohol or drugs. These tests typically include the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN), the Walk and Turn test, and the One Leg Stand test. Officers observe specific “clues” that may indicate impairment. However, it’s vital to remember that you are not legally obligated to take these tests before an arrest—you have the right to refuse.
Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) Test
During the HGN test, you are asked to follow a moving object, such as a pen or finger, with your eyes. The officer looks for involuntary jerking of your eyes (nystagmus), which could suggest impairment due to alcohol or drugs. However, nystagmus can also result from various other factors, including head injuries, certain medications, or inadequate lighting—common issues in real-life scenarios.
The administration of the HGN test is crucial. If conducted too quickly or incorrectly, the results may be questionable. At Jack Rice Defense, we meticulously examine how the HGN test was executed and seek any procedural errors that could undermine the evidence. While law enforcement may portray this test as strictly objective, it often involves subjective elements that can raise reasonable doubt in your case.
Walk and Turn Test
In the Walk and Turn test, you must take nine heel-to-toe steps along an imaginary line, turn, and walk back in the same manner. Mistakes such as stepping off the line, starting prematurely, or using your arms for balance are commonly interpreted as indicators of impairment.
However, this test can be particularly daunting in the variable conditions present in St. Paul and Ramsey County. Snow, ice, or uneven surfaces can complicate balance, especially during winter months. Additionally, individuals with physical limitations or injuries may struggle with this test, even if they are sober. If the test was not administered properly or if your performance has a reasonable explanation, your attorney can work to exclude this evidence from consideration in your case.
One Leg Stand Test
The One Leg Stand test asks you to lift one foot about six inches off the ground and hold that position while counting aloud for 30 seconds. The officer watches for signs of imbalance, like swaying or hopping.
Like the other tests, this one can prove difficult for anyone with physical challenges or if the conditions are subpar. Your attorney at Jack Rice Defense will carefully review any available footage, such as dashcam or bodycam recordings, to assess whether the officer’s judgment was fair or overly harsh. If the test was not conducted according to established protocols, we may be able to have the results excluded in court.
“Experience truly matters. In the courtroom, it may be the most important thing.”
Why Choose Jack Rice Defense?
With over 25 years of experience in criminal defense, Jack Rice Defense is dedicated to upholding the rights of individuals charged with DWI in St. Paul and across Ramsey County. We excel in evaluating field sobriety tests and scrutinizing police dashcam and bodycam footage to ensure adherence to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) guidelines. We also consider external factors, such as weather conditions or medical issues, that could influence your performance on these tests.
If you’ve been charged with a DWI in St. Paul or any part of Ramsey County, don’t navigate the legal system alone. Reach out to Jack Rice Defense today for a free, confidential consultation. Call us at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339. Your reputation, freedom, and future are on the line, and you deserve an experienced advocate who will fight for you every step of the way.