DUI Stops in Vermont

Published by Jessica Burke on

Your motor vehicle can be stopped in Vermont for either a motor vehicle violation (such as speeding or an expired registration) or based on reasonable suspicion of criminal activity. A basic investigatory stop can quickly transition into a DUI investigation.

Most DUI stops in Vermont are the result of motor vehicle infractions. Even small motor vehicle violations can result in a valid stop. Vermont courts have upheld the constitutionality of stops based on license plate lights being out, failure to turn on your headlights after sunset, or failing to use your turn signal.

A recent Vermont Supreme Court decision outlined the standard that an officer

Sometimes Vermont law enforcement will initiate a stop of a motor vehicle based on reasonable suspicion of criminal activity. This can be based on the officer observing a car weave in or outside of its lane; observing the car have difficulty maintaining its lane; or other erratic driving behavior.

Once the stop has been initiated, Vermont law enforcement may proceed to a DUI investigation. It is important to know your rights.

Categories: Vermont DUI

Jessica Burke

Jessica Burke is a licensed Vermont attorney and the founder of Burke Law. She obtained her undergraduate degree from Boston College in Political Science, and then received her law degree from Washington & Lee Law School. After law school she worked with several top law firms before settling in Vermont and building her own practice. In addition to being licensed to practice law in the state of Vermont, she also holds a State Bar certification in New Hampshire and Massachusetts, among others. She specializes in criminal defense, including DUI defense, homicides, and sex crimes.

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