Building the best defense for a driving under the influence (DUI) charge is critical for your case. Expert witnesses provide support by bridging the gap between evidence and a jury’s understanding.
A South Carolina DUI defense lawyer knows what expert witness to call, what value they add to your defense, and when to contact them. If you were recently arrested for DUI, you may want to start planning your defense with a lawyer now rather than later. Time is crucial for securing busy DUI expert witnesses for your case.
Your DUI attorney may use expert witnesses to testify to a specific part of your case. An expert witness’s education and experience make them credible and able to explain complex information to juries.
Expert witnesses in DUI defense cases are well versed in a variety of topics. The type of expert witnesses your lawyer may call depends upon such factors as a DUI accident, the kind of alcohol testing conducted, and other factors.
The following types of expert witnesses provide testimony in DUI defense cases:
Using an expert witness for your DUI defense is a strategic move that can bolster your claim of innocence. An experienced South Carolina DUI defense attorney can determine which type of expert witness is best for your charges.
Expert witnesses share their opinions and objective analysis, which may refute prosecutorial evidence. Expert witnesses can influence jury decisions with their knowledge and experience and how it applies to your case.
Expert witnesses can help your DUI defense by:
A South Carolina DUI attorney knows what questions to ask expert witnesses. Their questioning methods come after years of experience. This experience is beneficial when your attorney cross-examines a prosecution witness. Again, asking the right questions is vital to securing answers regarding how witness testimony relates to your case.
Expert witnesses generally know what is expected of them at trial. They work with your attorney beforehand and act professionally throughout the legal process.
A DUI defendant should have as many legal tools as possible. Expert witnesses are one tool DUI defense attorneys use to fight against a possible life-changing conviction. A South Carolina DUI defense attorney can explain more about how they locate and utilize expert witnesses’ services.
No one can claim to be an expert witness without proper credentials. Verifying a witness’s qualifications before they take the stand is critical in a DUI defense case.
South Carolina Rule of Evidence 702 governs expert testimony. The state rule is identical to the Federal Rule of Evidence 702, which states that an expert witness is qualified by their knowledge, skills, experience, training, or education.
When determining which expert is the proper witness for your case, your attorney will consider whether . . .
While predicting the outcome of any DUI case is impossible, an expert witness can help your defense. Their testimony can reach and resonate with a jury in a manner that may minimize your chance of conviction.
Selecting expert witnesses for DUI defense cases is just part of what an attorney can do for you. DUI defense attorneys can access associations, organizations, and referrals that help them search for expert witnesses.
If you have a DUI case pending, consider discussing defense options with an attorney today. Expert witnesses are often in demand, making quick action critical for securing the right one for your case.
A DUI charge is a serious legal matter that deserves a strong defense. The risk of a conviction places your future in great peril as you face possible jail time and costly fines. The disruption a DUI charge brings to your life leaves you no time to build your defense alone. There is no time to search for expert witnesses, especially when you have no idea what type of expert you need.
You have a right to defend yourself against a DUI charge, but DUI cases are complex, and prosecutors are aggressive. Without legal representation and possible expert witnesses, you may risk a negative outcome of your case.
Whether your case involves a faulty breathalyzer, a violation of your rights, or a tragic car accident, get help from Whalen Montalvo Attorneys at Law today. Attorneys James Whalen and Eric Montalvo understand the pressure and stress DUI defendants feel. Previous clients have found the entire team at Whalen Montalvo Attorneys at Law friendly, approachable, and nonjudgmental.
Protect your future by contacting us for help with your DUI defense. Call today to schedule a free consultation: (864) 770-7710.
I grew up right here in Greenville, South Carolina. Following highschool, I attended Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee, where I was an NCAA Scholar-Athlete for the Rhodes Lynx soccer program.
I completed my law degree at University of South Carolina School of Law, where I was on the mock trial team and an editor for the Journal of Law and Education. Following graduation, I served as a judicial law clerk for Senior Judge Robert H. Hodges, Jr. on the Court of Federal Claims in Washington, D.C. My experience in D.C. trial courts solidified my desire to become a trial lawyer.
Read Full Bio
Get the best legal representation possible. Give the Greenville, SC attorneys at Whalen Montalvo a call today at (864) 770-7710 or use our online form.