Being arrested for DUI (driving under the influence) can be a life-altering experience, often leading to serious legal and personal consequences. However, many DUI cases are not as clear-cut as they may initially seem, and with the right defense strategy, it is possible to achieve a favorable outcome, even in the most challenging situations. At AJLJ Law, we understand the intricacies of DUI law and work tirelessly to ensure our clients receive the best possible defense from our DUI attorney team.
One of the first steps in any DUI defense case is understanding the nature of the charge. According to Bankrate, over 70% of individuals arrested for drunk driving are men, but DUI arrests can happen to anyone, regardless of their gender, age, or other demographics. The importance of having a skilled defense team to handle the complexities of these cases cannot be overstated. Our attorneys are experienced in navigating the nuances of DUI law and committed to securing the best possible result for our clients.
The Importance of Building a Strong Defense
Our success in DUI cases is rooted in the strength of the defense we build for each client. A recent victory in Portage County Municipal Court exemplifies our approach. In early 2025, our team achieved a resounding “not guilty” verdict for a client charged with operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI). The case was a jury trial, and our client was accused of driving under the influence after being stopped for a marked lanes violation.
When the officer made contact with our client, he reported smelling alcohol and observed signs of possible impairment, such as bloodshot eyes. Despite these observations, our client declined to perform field sobriety tests, a decision that ultimately helped our defense. Without the field sobriety test results or a chemical test — such as a breathalyzer — we focused on highlighting the gaps in the prosecution’s case.
Creating Reasonable Doubt
At the heart of our defense strategy is the principle of “reasonable doubt.” In our recent case, the prosecution presented evidence that our client had consumed two beers earlier in the evening. However, the mere admission of alcohol consumption was not enough to prove that our client was impaired while driving. We knew that without additional evidence, such as a failed field sobriety test or a positive breathalyzer result, the government’s case was weak.
One of the key pieces of evidence we used was body camera footage of the encounter between our client and the officer. This footage showed that our client appeared sober — his speech was clear, and his balance and coordination were intact. While there were dash camera and body camera recordings of the incident, neither captured the alleged marked lanes violation, which weakened the prosecution’s argument further.
Through effective cross-examination of the officer and highlighting the lack of solid evidence, we were able to create reasonable doubt in the jury’s minds. In under 40 minutes, the jury delivered a not guilty verdict, a victory that reinforced our belief in the importance of thorough preparation and strong legal representation.
Not Every Case Has to End in a Plea Deal
Our recent success in Portage County serves as a reminder that not every DUI case has to result in a plea deal. Many individuals facing DUI charges believe that accepting a plea deal is their only option. However, this is not always the case. With the right legal strategy from a skilled DUI attorney, there is often an opportunity to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and secure a favorable outcome.
At AJLJ, we are committed to fighting for our clients’ rights and ensuring they receive the best possible representation in DUI cases. Whether through aggressive cross-examination, highlighting weaknesses in the evidence, or negotiating a favorable plea deal when necessary, we use every tool at our disposal to win DUI cases. We understand that every case is unique, and we tailor our approach to best suit the needs of each client.
If you are facing DUI charges, don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact our experienced DUI attorney team at AJLJ today and let us fight for your future. We’ll provide the experienced legal support you need throughout every step of your case.
