DUI Dictionary

Drunk driving arrests, DUI / DWI arrests, cases involving driving under the influence of drugs (DUID), or the combination of alcohol and drugs, all seem to have their own language. Indeed, DUI / DWI criminal defense lawyers seem to have their own language as well. As any criminal defense attorney who concentrates on defending drinking and driving cases will admit, there are special terms which are not readily understood. The following are often-used (and not often easily understood) terms relating to DWI / DUI, drunk driving, drinking and driving, DUID (driving under the influence of drugs) and other related criminal arrests:

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Walk-and-Turn (WAT) Test - One of the three tests that make up the Standardized Field Sobriety battery. This test requires a person to take nine heel-to-toe steps along a straight line, turn and take nine heel-to-toe steps down the same way to the starting point. The subject is assessed on the ability to understand and follow instructions as well as the ability to maintain balance during both the instruction stage and walking stage.

Wet Reckless - This is a plea to a charge of reckless driving which was alcohol related. A wet reckless results from a plea bargain to reduce a charge of drunk driving. There are several reasons for such a reduction, including a borderline blood alcohol level, where there was no accident and no prior record. The result is a lower fine, no jail time and no record of a drunk driving conviction, but if there is a subsequent drunk driving conviction the "wet reckless" will be considered a prior drunk driving conviction and result in a heavier sentence required for a second conviction. The chief benefits of a wet reckless are realized on a second-offense (or greater) DUI conviction. There are only marginal benefits when charged with a first-offense DUI. A wet reckless can be especially important to anyone who holds a professional driver's license, since it is only reported on a criminal record as reckless driving. It is vital that you consult with a criminal defense DUI lawyer before accepting any such plea.

Witness - A person who can provide testimony on behalf of the prosecution or DUI defense.