Item: Los Angeles DUI Lawyers Hoffman and Associates
Rating: 5
Author: Micaiah Botts

California Driving Under The Influence – Breath Test

DUI Breath Test in California

If you are pulled over on suspicion of driving under the influence in California, you will be asked to take a preliminary alcohol screening test (PAS) at the scene. While the PAS test is optional, and you have the right to refuse to take it, the test administered at the police station is mandatory. During the DUI stop, you will be offered the choice of taking the breath test or the blood test in order to get a reading of your blood alcohol content (BAC).

A breath test is not the most accurate alcohol screening test because after the breath sample is taken, it must be converted to a blood alcohol content amount. The breath test is not as direct as a blood test, which has a higher probability for accuracy.

What if the Breath Test is Wrong?

There are several external factors that may affect a breath test reading for blood alcohol content. For example, temperature can affect the reading. The test must be adjusted to accommodate the surrounding temperature, as well as the temperature of the subject taking the test. Breathing patterns may also have an effect on the reading of the breath test. If you are nervous and breathing heavily, hyperventilation will cause the reading to be inaccurate.

One of the most common reasons for an inaccurate breath test reading is the machine that is used is not calibrated properly. The Breathalyzer machine must be calibrated frequently, but the records kept on the machine may show otherwise. Breathalyzer machines also have a problem of non-specificity. The machines don’t just pick up alcohol on someone’s breath, they may also pick up similar substances with a comparable molecular structure, such as acetone.

Legal Defenses For Refusing to Take a Breathalyzer Test

During a DUI stop, you may refuse to take a Breathalyzer test in certain situations. For example, if you have asthma you are legally excused from taking the test. You may also be excused if the machine is giving erroneous or inaccurate readings. What it is important to understand is that while you may legally be excused from taking a breathalyzer test for a number of reasons, you may still be legally required to take a blood test.

The skilled DUI defense attorneys at Hoffman & Associates have successfully defended thousands of clients facing DUI charges. We can request the records for a specific Breathalyzer machine to test it for accuracy and proper maintenance. With over 30 years of courtroom experience in California, we understand the many legal defenses available for DUI charges and can counsel you on your rights. Defending your reputation and your rights is what we do, so contact us today to schedule a consultation to discuss your case!

★★★★★

I can't begin to thank Mr. Hoffman enough for his extensive efforts throughout the entire case. He went absolutely above and beyond throughout the entire process. From day one he was immediately actively pursuing ways to prevent my case from ever going to court and once that was no longer an option, actively began working on getting the case ultimately dismissed. His communication was consistent and reassuring, despite my frantic worries all the time... Micaiah Botts

My family and I simply owe our life and future to Ron Hoffman. If you are looking for a lawyer that goes above and beyond the call of duty you can't find a better lawyer than Ron. He took my case head on from the moment I called his office. I was involved in an accidental hit and run where I was unaware of the injury. Every step of the way, Ron guided me through an almost two year long investigation and court settlement process and was constantly by my side through out every crossroad... Bill Martin

Ron Hoffman and his staff were Fantastic when dealing with such a serious issue of DUI. When I first Called Ron I was very nervous and worried for my daughter and her freedom. She had a failure to appear on top of her DUI and I knew just how bad this could be. Ron was able to immediately put me at ease and gave me the confidence that there was hope and a light at the end of the tunnel. Ron was able to get the failure to appear dismissed and also no jail time for my daughter... Claude Brown

I have been working with Mr. Hoffman for over 11 years. I have seen first hand his genuine dedication to his clients, and how his experience, knowledge and passion have gotten clients fantastic results. He treats each of his clients as his only client, and takes the time to develop detailed strategies and defenses for each individual case. I have never hesitated to refer Mr. Hoffman to anyone who has asked me for a good Criminal Defense attorney. He is a fantastic attorney!... Neeta P.

I had a DUI issue recently. I have never had a problem with the law as serious as this one. I did panic a bit after and knew I had to get a lawyer to help my future. I researched the Web and read the reviews for awesome DUI Lawyers. Hiring a lawyer can be intimidating. Ron's 30 years experience and step by step guidance helped me with my case. Jonie was amazing with keeping me calm. Ron Hoffman is a great lawyer and I would refer any friends or family to him... Manuel Gomez

Ron was so accommodating and professional. With a Firm like his you wouldn't expect him to be as accessible, but he immediately returned phone calls, was easy to communicate with and was very sympathetic to my situation. He went above and beyond and was able to get a better result than I'd hoped or expected. I highly recommend Ron Hoffman and his firm. He made a difficult and anxiety fueled process bearable and made me feel safe. He is a lovely man. One does not wish to need a criminal attorney, but if you do need one, Ron's the guy to call... Teri A.

Ron and his team were the perfect pairing for what I needed taken care of. Every step of the way he was extremely helpful and informative (not his first rodeo). His work ethic and attitude were exemplary and it showed with the results of using his services. I would recommend anyone I know to give Ron a call if they need help in his realm of expertise. Many thanks Ron and associates!... Donald N.

I didn't hire a lawyer for my first DUI... What a mistake! Ronald goes above and beyond with his art and knowledge of custom strategy according to your case. lawyer of the year (every year)... Adam R.

I hate lawyers. They are hard to get a hold of, greedy and unreliable. Ron is the opposite of all these things. He deserves 6 stars, and I very much recommend him. He helped me through my case with nothing but kindness, understanding, and knowledge and eventually got it dropped. Thanks for everything Ron!... Avi Z.

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