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Blood tests in DUI cases
Blood tests for DUIs in Georgia are often considered more reliable than breath tests, but there are still a number of issues that can arise from the time the blood sample is taken until it is tested.
Challenging a DUI blood test in Georgia
These issues can include improper handling or storage of the sample, incorrect labeling or documentation, and contamination of the sample. An experienced DUI attorney can help you challenge the admissibility of a blood test by identifying any potential issues with the way the sample was collected, handled, or tested. This may involve obtaining and reviewing the relevant documentation, such as the blood draw record, lab reports, and maintenance records for the equipment used. Your attorney can also work with expert witnesses, such as toxicologists, to help challenge the accuracy of the test results.
Blood tests for DUIs in Georgia are considered to be more reliable than breath tests, but there are many potential issues that may arise from the time a blood sample is taken to the time it is tested.
It is important for the officer to confirm that the kit used for collecting the blood sample has not expired and that only items found in the kit are used in the test.
Using hospital equipment, such as needles and sterilizing wipes, may result in contamination of the sample and inaccurate test results. A skilled defense attorney can challenge the admissibility of blood test evidence by highlighting any potential issues or irregularities in the collection and testing process.
If a blood sample is collected in a DUI case in Georgia, it is important to ensure that the correct equipment is used and that the blood collection kit is not expired. The gray-stop tube, which contains a preservative and an anti-coagulant, must be used to prevent the blood from breaking down into glucose, which can lead to inflated blood test results. It is also essential to use an alcohol-free sterilizing wipe on the skin before the blood draw to avoid contaminating the sample with raw alcohol. If the blood collection kit is expired, there is a risk that the sample may have been contaminated with candida, which can also lead to inaccurate test results. It is the responsibility of the officer or medical professional collecting the blood to ensure that these steps are followed properly.
When it comes to analyzing blood samples for DUIs in Georgia, there are a few key terms that you should be familiar with. Chromatography is a method used by scientists to separate and study organic and inorganic compounds.
One particular type of chromatography is called gas chromatography, which is often used to analyze blood samples.
The output from the gas chromatography machine is called a chromatogram, which shows the separation of the components of a mixture.
The machine that performs this process is called a chromatograph. It is important to note that sometimes samples may leave the chromatograph column and enter the flame ionization detector at the same time, which is known as co-elution.
There are also two types of chain of custody documents that can be relevant when it comes to analyzing blood samples: the internal chain of custody, which documents who handled the sample in the lab, and the external chain of custody, which documents who collected and handled the sample prior to it arriving at the lab.
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Criminal defense for DUI blood test in Georgia
If you have been charged with a DUI in Atlanta, it is important to understand the process of blood testing and how it can potentially impact your case. From the collection of the sample to its analysis and reporting, it is essential that specific instructions are followed to maintain the integrity of the sample. However, it can be difficult to verify whether these instructions were followed without subpoenaing relevant witnesses and thoroughly cross-examining them. Attorney Erin Gerstenzang is experienced in challenging problematic blood results in DUI cases and can help you navigate this complex process.
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