Why Experience Matters in a Reno DUI Case
If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Reno, Nevada, you need more than just any attorney — you need someone who understands both sides of the courtroom. At Carlson & Work, our DUI defense team is led by former prosecutor Mathew Work, who has tried more than 300 DUI cases at trial. That experience gives us a clear advantage when defending clients against DUI charge
Why You Should Consider Taking Your DUI to Trial
Many people — and even some attorneys — assume that pleading guilty is the only option. In reality, prosecutors face a long list of hurdles when trying to secure a conviction. If even one piece of evidence is missing, mismanaged, or a witness fails to appear, the case may be reduced or dismissed.
As your Reno DUI defense lawyers, we know how to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and leverage them in your defense.
The Evidence Required for a DUI Conviction in Nevada
1. The Traffic Stop
The officer who initiated the stop must testify in court. They will need to recall (often months later) details like:
The reason for the stop (swerving, broken taillight, erratic driving)
Physical observations (red eyes, odor of alcohol, slurred speech)
Whether field tests were conducted correctly
If their testimony is inconsistent or they fail to appear, the prosecution’s case is weakened.
2. The DUI Specialist
In most Reno DUI cases, a certified DUI officer is called to the scene to perform field sobriety tests. This may include:
Walk-and-turn test
One-leg stand
Horizontal gaze nystagmus (eye test)
Preliminary breath test
If the DUI specialist doesn’t appear in court or mishandled testing, the defense has grounds to challenge the arrest.
3. Blood or Breath Testing
For blood or breath results to hold up in court, the specialist must be:
Certified in the testing method
Available to testify at trial
Able to recall details of the arrest and testing
Any lapse in memory, training, or procedure can cast doubt on the reliability of the results.
What This Means for Your DUI Defense
In Washoe County, the prosecutor’s job is much harder than most people realize. For a conviction, every officer, test, and piece of evidence must line up perfectly. As experienced trial lawyers, we know how to find the gaps and use them to fight for your freedom.
Why Choose Carlson & Work for DUI Defense in Reno?
Former Prosecutor Advantage – We know how the State builds DUI cases.
Trial-Tested Experience – Hundreds of DUI trials handled in Reno and Washoe County.
Client-First Strategy – From negotiating reductions to taking cases to trial, we tailor our defense to your best interests.
Protect Your Rights Today
If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Reno, NV, you have options, but time is critical. Don’t let a DUI conviction change the course of your life without a fight.
Call Carlson & Work today at 775-386-2226 to schedule a confidential DUI defense consultation. Our Reno DUI attorneys will stand by your side and fight for the best outcome possible.
