DWI and Speeding
The client was pulled over for speeding 101 mph. in a 70 mph. zone. The officer smelled alcohol and administered a field sobriety test which the client failed. A subsequent breath test showed a blood alcohol content of .10. Upon reviewing a tape of the arrest, Ruth was able to determine that the officer had not allowed enough time to pass during the required observation period, thus invalidating the breath test. Ruth was able to use this to win an administrative suspension hearing, allowing the client to keep his driver's license. This win convinced the prosecutor to drop the DWI and the speeding ticket was amended to a careless and imprudent driving. This resulted in 2 points on the client's driving record and a $300 fine, a much lighter punishment than he was originally facing.