DWI/DUI:1. Q: Do I have to take field sobriety tests if asked to do so by a police officer?
1. Q: Do I have to take field sobriety tests if asked to do so by a police officer?
A: No. Field sobriety tests must be done (in order to be admissible) on a voluntary basis. The police officer is not allowed to force you to do them. Keep in mind that statements that you make as reasons for not voluntarily participating in field sobriety tests may be admissible at trial. Statements like "I couldn't do that even if I was sober" may prove to be as, if not more, harmful than failing the tests. If you do not wish to attempt the tests, you may simply decline the police officer's request that you voluntarily participate.
A: No. Field sobriety tests must be done (in order to be admissible) on a voluntary basis. The police officer is not allowed to force you to do them. Keep in mind that statements that you make as reasons for not voluntarily participating in field sobriety tests may be admissible at trial. Statements like "I couldn't do that even if I was sober" may prove to be as, if not more, harmful than failing the tests. If you do not wish to attempt the tests, you may simply decline the police officer's request that you voluntarily participate.