Sobriety Checkpoints

It’s late at night and you leave the local bar after spending some time with friends. The beer was free-flowing, the chicken wings were plentiful and now, as you’re driving home, you see a sobriety checkpoint up ahead.

You pull over and a nightmare begins.

Sobriety checkpoints happen in New Hampshire. But, what should you do if it happens to you? The first thing you’ll need to do is find an attorney who is competent in DUI/DWI matters. Look no further than attorney Michael Anzlone at The Anzalone Law Firm.

Michael and his associates will be there for you as your case winds through the legal system.

But, back to the side of the road, where the officer has stopped you you over. After the routine of checking your driver’s license and asking for your insurance and vehicle registration, you’ll be in the spotlight. The officer will probably ask you to step from the vehicle, especially if he or she suspects you of drinking and driving.

These checkpoints are done by law enforcement agencies across New Hampshire. Are they legal? Yes.

Sometimes, police officers or other law enforcement agencies will set up shop on a busy highway or near a popular restaurant that serves alcohol. When you’re stopped, the officer will be observing you. Are your eyes glassy or bloodshot? Are you slurring your words? They are looking for clues that you could possibly have consumed too much alcohol.

Under state law, the police department conducting the stop must provide advance notice of the checkpoint and get a judge’s approval to do set up the stop. They must also abide by state statutes regarding the stop.

In New Hampshire, DUI or DWI is a serious offense and prosecutors don’t take violators lightly. And, another thing you should understand, DUI charges can include people who are driving under the influence of drugs. This can be either prescription drugs or even over-the-counter drugs. Always know how medicine affects you before getting behind the wheel.

First you may be asked to perform a series of field sobriety tests. These may include walking a straight line or answering a series of questions. These tests will be recorded and may be shown later in court.

Next, you may be given a blood alcohol content or BAC test. This will let prosecutors and your defense attorney know how much alcohol was in your system when you were pulled over. In New Hampshire, anything over a 0.08 percent on a BAC test means you are over the legal limit to drive. If you are under age 21, a BAC of 0.02 or higher is considered over the legal limit to drive.

Before you talk to the police, make sure you call a lawyer to seek legal advice. Again, this is not a path you want to walk alone and DUI lawyer Michael Anzalone and his team will stay by your side. They will seek the best outcome for you and your family.

Remember, DUI/DWI can be expensive. You’ll have attorney costs, plus, if you are found guilty of either offense, the judge will likely order participate in some form of rehab program. This is typically paid for you the defendant, so get ready to pay up. Plus, there are fines, required by the state in minimum mandatory sentencing guidelines.

After you consult with attorney Michael Anzalone, you should probably read up on the state laws regarding driving offenses. He encourages clients to be well-informed about the laws affecting them as the case heads to court.

If you are facing DUI/DWI charges, remember to call Michael Anzalone in Nashua, New Hampshire. At The Anzalone Law Firm, you will always be our priority.