At Tenn And Tenn, PA, we understand how overwhelming and stressful a DUI or DWI charge can be. If you are facing such a situation, it is normal to feel confusion and worry about what lies ahead. Our team is here to provide the support and legal guidance you need. We believe in protecting your rights and helping you work toward a successful resolution of your case. Knowing what to expect during a DUI checkpoint can be helpful in reducing anxiety and ensuring you understand your legal options.
James J. Tenn, Jr.
Attorney
Mary Elizabeth Tenn
Attorney
John J. Tenn
Attorney
Working hard to obtain the best results possible for our clients and fighting to protect their rights.
Understanding DUI Checkpoints in New Hampshire
DUI checkpoints, also called sobriety checkpoints, are law enforcement stops designed to identify and deter impaired drivers. These checkpoints are legal in New Hampshire and are conducted with the goal of improving road safety. Officers set up roadblocks at predetermined locations and stop vehicles in a systematic way. This could mean stopping every car or using a specific pattern, such as every third car. Drivers are briefly detained and asked questions to determine whether they may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Checkpoints must follow strict guidelines to protect drivers’ constitutional rights. Authorities are required to announce checkpoint locations in advance, and the stops must be conducted fairly and without discrimination. If you are stopped at a checkpoint, it is important to remain calm and remember that you have rights, even in this situation.
What Happens During a DUI Checkpoint Stop
When you approach a DUI checkpoint, officers will signal you to stop your vehicle. You will likely see cones or other markers directing traffic and officers standing nearby. The interaction begins with an officer asking basic questions, such as your name and where you are heading. They may ask if you have been drinking or using drugs.
If the officer detects signs of impairment, such as the smell of alcohol, slurred speech, or bloodshot eyes, they may ask you to perform field sobriety tests or take a breath test. Field sobriety tests involve physical tasks that evaluate coordination and balance. Refusing these tests is within your rights, but it may have consequences that could affect your case. Breath tests, which measure blood alcohol concentration, can also be refused. However, under New Hampshire’s implied consent law, refusing a breath or chemical test can lead to license suspension.
Your Rights at a DUI Checkpoint
Even though DUI checkpoints are legal, drivers maintain certain rights during these stops. You have the right to remain silent beyond providing basic information, such as your name and registration. You do not have to answer questions about where you have been or whether you have consumed alcohol. You can politely decline to answer further questions and state that you wish to speak with an attorney.
You also have the right to refuse field sobriety tests and chemical tests, but it is important to understand the potential consequences of doing so. Refusing these tests does not guarantee avoiding a charge and may result in additional penalties. Knowing your rights can help you make informed decisions if you are stopped at a checkpoint.
Legal Challenges to DUI Checkpoints
Not every DUI checkpoint is conducted lawfully. If procedures are not followed correctly, the checkpoint may violate your rights. Law enforcement must adhere to strict rules, including notifying the public in advance and ensuring the stop process is non-discriminatory. If the checkpoint location or method is inappropriate or if officers act improperly, it may provide grounds to challenge the validity of any resulting charges.
Challenging the legality of a checkpoint requires a careful review of the circumstances by a skilled attorney. At Tenn And Tenn, PA, we know how to identify flaws in the process and build a strong defense. If your rights were violated, we can argue for evidence to be excluded or charges to be dismissed.
How We Can Help You After a DUI Checkpoint Stop
Facing a DUI or DWI charge is daunting, but you do not have to handle it alone. At Tenn And Tenn, PA, we are committed to helping you understand your options and protecting your future. We understand that each case is unique, and we work to provide personalized guidance to achieve the best possible outcome.
The Importance of Timely Legal Representation
One of the most important aspects of handling a DUI or DWI case is acting quickly. New Hampshire has strict timelines for filing challenges and responding to charges. The sooner you get in touch with an attorney, the better chance you have at building a strong defense. Waiting too long could result in lost opportunities to gather evidence, challenge the stop, or negotiate with prosecutors. At Tenn And Tenn, PA, we understand the urgency of your case and are ready to take immediate action to protect your rights. We will guide you through each step of the process, ensuring that every deadline is met and your case is handled efficiently.
The Consequences of a DUI or DWI Conviction
If you are convicted of DUI or DWI in New Hampshire, the consequences can be severe and long-lasting. A conviction may lead to license suspension, hefty fines, mandatory alcohol education programs, and possibly jail time. Additionally, having a DUI or DWI conviction on your record can affect your employment opportunities, insurance rates, and overall reputation. It is important to understand that even if you were stopped at a DUI checkpoint, a conviction is not inevitable. With skilled legal representation, you may be able to reduce the charges or even avoid a conviction altogether.
Our team has extensive experience handling DUI and DWI cases. We thoroughly review the details of your stop, including the legality of the checkpoint and the evidence collected. We evaluate whether field sobriety tests were administered properly and whether any procedural errors occurred. By identifying weaknesses in the case against you, we can work to reduce charges, negotiate favorable plea deals, or fight for a dismissal when appropriate.
If you have recently been stopped at a DUI checkpoint in New Hampshire, Tenn And Tenn, PA, is here to help. You do not need to navigate this challenging situation on your own. Contact us today for a consultation. We will review your case, answer your questions, and provide the dedicated representation you deserve. Protect your rights and take the first step toward resolving your DUI or DWI case by reaching out to our team now.