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The Power of Video Evidence in a DUI Case
Video evidence has become an increasingly powerful tool in DUI cases. With the prevalence of dash cameras, body cameras, and surveillance cameras, it is becoming more and more likely that there is video footage that can impact your case. While this evidence can be either positive or negative, depending on what it shows, it is still critical that you and your Los Angeles DUI lawyer take advantage of any available footage.
Types of Video Evidence
There are several types of video evidence that may be available in your DUI case. The most common is dash cam footage from the arresting officer’s car. This footage can show the driving conduct prior to the traffic stop and much of what occurs during the stop itself. It can even prove that the officer did not have probable cause to pull you over or highlight your competent performance in your field sobriety tests. However, if the footage shows erratic driving or signs of intoxication, it can hurt your case.
Body camera footage, captured by a camera that the officer wears on their person, has become a more popular option as technology advances. This footage can demonstrate more of the interaction between you and the officer throughout the entire ordeal, including the moments before the initial stop.
Other potential sources of video evidence could come from nearby businesses with surveillance cameras that may have captured footage of the stop or field sobriety test.
Getting Video Evidence
Your Los Angeles DUI attorney can help you obtain any available video footage accessible to the prosecution of your case via a request for it in trial discovery. However, the prosecutor may refuse to surrender the footage. In that event, your attorney can file a motion in court to force the prosecution to release the video evidence. Additionally, footage from other sources may require a subpoena.
The Impact of Video Evidence
The effect of the video evidence on your case depends on what it shows. If it shows erratic driving or a poor performance during field sobriety tests, it can hurt your case. However, if the video demonstrates responsible driving and no specific reason for the officer to pull you over, your Los Angeles DUI attorney may file a motion to have the case dismissed. Video evidence that shows you maintaining sobriety can also be helpful.
Conclusion
The presence of video evidence in DUI cases can significantly impact the outcome of the trial. The attorneys at Todd Spodek Law know how to evaluate and use this evidence during the defense of your case. If you are facing a DUI charge or have been arrested for a DUI, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our Los Angeles DUI lawyers will provide you with the possible representation and guidance to achieve a favorable outcome for your case.
The following table shows the types of videos for evidence in a DUI case:
| Types of Video Evidence | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Dash Cam Footage | Can show driving conduct prior to stop and events during the stop that proves competent field sobriety tests and disproves probable cause to pull you over. | Can also show erratic or drunken driving behavior. |
| Body Camera Footage | Shows more complete interaction with the officer throughout the stop and before the initial stop than the dash cams. | May not capture comprehensive or appropriate footage of the stop and interactions. |
| Surveillance Footage | May illustrate aspects of the case not caught by dash or body cameras. | May not adequately capture the moment in question. |
Video evidence plays a significant part in DUI cases. Todd Spodek Law understands how video evidence can impact a case and how the absence thereof may impact a case. Our attorneys can obtain all available video evidence that can affect your DUI case. We are here to be your legal representation and guide for all DUI charges. If you or a loved one is facing a DUI charge or arrest, contact our Los Angeles DUI attorneys to see how we can help you achieve the possible outcome for your case.
Very diligent, organized associates; got my case dismissed. Hard working attorneys who can put up with your anxiousness. I was accused of robbing a gemstone dealer. Definitely A law group that lays out all possible options and alternative routes. Recommended for sure.
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CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEYS