When you are charged with DWI, you need more than an attorney who simply handles criminal cases. You need someone who understands how DWI investigations are conducted, how prosecutors evaluate these cases and where the evidence may be weaker than it initially appears.
Attorney John Lesch brings two particularly valuable forms of experience to DWI defense: he has completed standardized field sobriety testing certification, and he previously prosecuted DWI cases. That background allows him to examine your case from several different perspectives—not simply accept the version presented in the police report.
Field sobriety tests are often treated as straightforward proof that someone was impaired. In reality, these tests must be administered, interpreted and documented properly.
John has completed training and certification in standardized field sobriety testing. He understands the procedures officers are trained to follow when administering the:
That training matters because the reliability of these tests depends heavily on how they are conducted. The instructions given by the officer, the testing surface, lighting, weather, footwear, physical limitations and other surrounding conditions may all affect a person’s performance.
John can evaluate whether the officer followed the standardized procedures, whether the observations recorded in the police report are consistent with the available video and whether innocent explanations may account for what the officer interpreted as signs of impairment.
A field sobriety test is not a scientific measurement of alcohol concentration. It is one part of an investigation—and it deserves to be examined critically.
Before defending people accused of DWI, John prosecuted these cases.
That experience provides insight into how prosecutors review police reports, identify the evidence they consider strongest and decide what outcome they will pursue. He understands the questions prosecutors are likely to ask about a case because he has previously been responsible for making those evaluations himself.
This perspective can be valuable at every stage of a DWI case. John knows which facts may affect charging and negotiation decisions, what weaknesses may cause a prosecutor to reconsider the strength of the case and when the available evidence warrants a more aggressive challenge.
Understanding the prosecution’s strategy does not guarantee a particular result. It does, however, allow John to prepare for the arguments likely to come from the other side and develop a defense strategy with those arguments already in mind.
A police report presents the officer’s interpretation of what happened. It is not the final word.
A thorough DWI defense may require examining:
John’s background helps him recognize where closer examination is necessary. Rather than viewing each piece of evidence in isolation, he considers how the entire investigation fits together—and whether the state can prove every required element of its case.
No two DWI cases are identical. The right approach depends on the evidence, your prior record, the circumstances of the arrest, your driver’s license and the potential consequences for your employment and family.
Some cases may be resolved through carefully negotiated outcomes. Others may present legal, factual or evidentiary issues that should be challenged. John evaluates the complete situation before recommending a strategy.
The goal is not to make empty promises. It is to give you an honest assessment, explain the available options and use his training and experience to pursue the best outcome the facts will support.
A DWI arrest can affect your freedom, driving privileges, employment and reputation. You should understand what the state must prove—and whether the investigation was conducted properly—before making decisions about your case.
Contact Lesch Law Firm to discuss your DWI charge in a confidential consultation. John will review the circumstances, explain what may happen next and help you determine the best way forward.