The scientific instrument used to analyze the blood alcohol content (BAC) of an individual is known as a chromatograph. The key to attacking the chromatograph is the standards. The accuracy of the process depends on what you tell the chromatograph the standards are. The lab tells it what a .10 looks like, what a .20 looks like, etc. Everything is a comparison. If the standards are off, the test is worthless.
Where do the standards come from? Who prepared the standards? If the standards are commercially purchased, did the lab verify the standards? Did they test the standards on that chromatograph? The integrity of the whole process is determined by the accuracy of those standards. Did the low bidder get the contract for those standards? Chromatography rides on the validity of the standards that are used to calibrate the chromatograph.
At The Law Offices of John Phebus, we understand what goes into challenging a blood test after a DUI. If you live in Maricopa County and are being convicted of a DUI charge, contact our law firm by calling 623-847-7117 or by completing our online contact form. Our Glendale DUI attorneys will carefully examine numerous factors that can lead to inaccurate results, including:
Was the blood drawn by a qualified individual?
Was whole blood or plasma tested?
Have IV fluids affected the blood draw?
Have the blood test kits expired?
Is the chain of custody unbroken?
Were the machines properly stored and calibrated between uses?
There are several complex defenses based on factors such as the presence of potassium oxalate, the use of salting out agents and the gas chromatography process itself. Don’t trust your driving privileges to a less experienced defense attorney. Contact a skilled criminal defense lawyer from our law firm today.
Contact Our Glendale Law Firm
If you have questions regarding challenging a blood test, schedule a free consultation at The Law Offices of John Phebus. Our firm can be reached by calling 623-847-7117 or by completing our online contact form. We also serve clients with DUI cases from Scottsdale, Peoria, Surprise, and other areas of Maricopa County. Our office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Evening and weekend appointments are available based on the needs of our clients.
