There are a lot of law firms out there who are willing to take on your criminal or DUI case, but there is only one McShane Firm. So how is the McShane Firm different and better than the rest? In this series, we will take a look at some factors you should consider when choosing a law firm.
Previously in this series, we posted:
Today we look at How we are The Science Attorneys.
Forensic science is at the forefront of DUI cases. Unlike theft cases where there is usually physical evidence, in DUIs the most important piece of evidence is often a test result. That is why it is vital to understand how that test result was produced and if the tests were conducted correctly.
There is also a great deal of physiology and pharmacology involved when it comes to how the body processes ethanol. Factors like weight, sex, age, how much was imbibed, what other foods were consumed and many others play a part in how the body reacts to alcohol. Each of these factors has scientific reasons behind why they are important.
There are also a number of medical conditions which can produce chemicals in the body which can skew test results. An example of this is when a diabetic has very low blood sugar, the body produces a byproduct called isopropanol that has a similar structure to ethanol. Many breath testing machines do not differentiate between the two.
The observations of the arresting police officer also must have scientific backing. Just because someone had bloodshot eyes and swerved, does not mean that they were intoxicated. A person who has not slept for an extended period of time may exhibit these signs as well.
These are some of the many examples of why knowing the science behind DUI cases is absolutely vital. If an attorney does not know the science properly (spoiler alert: most don’t) then they cannot properly defend DUI cases.
At The McShane Firm, we are The Science Attorneys. No law firm can match our experience and knowledge in science. Attorney Justin McShane and Attorney Katherine McShane are designated Lawyer-Scientists as recognized by the American Chemical Society. In fact, Justin McShane has presented numerous research papers at conferences to audiences full of scientists, not lawyers. He has also instructed at many laboratory courses about DUI blood testing.
If you are facing a DUI and your future is on the line, call The McShane Firm and ask us about how we can use science in your case.
wayne jones says:
Hi Justin,
Long time no see.
I happened to read one of your blogs about salting-out effects of sodium fluoride on results of blood.alcohol analysis. I thought that it was very well crafted.
regards
wayne