DRE Checklist, Step 3: Preliminary Examination

By San Diego Attorney on April 30, 2012

A Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) must follow a checklist that breaks down into twelve components. The next few blogs will examine each step in detail.

Step 3: Preliminary Examination

This step begins with an extensive physical contact with the subject. The purpose of this contact is to look for any evidence of a medical compliance that would warrant terminating the evaluation and summoning medical assistance. The DRE will:

• Ask for a series of questions;
• Examine the eyes to determine if the pupils differ significantly in size;
• Check for an estimation of the angle of onset of nystagmus.

This will allow the DRE to evaluate if the subject is under the influence of alcohol alone. The DRE will check the pulse and if necessary call for medical attention. This will terminate the evaluation, but otherwise the DRE will proceed with the evaluation.

If you or a loved one has been charged with a DUI with drugs, call our offices today for a free consultation. Criminal Defense Attorney James N. Dicks specializes in DUI cases. As a member of The National College for DUI Defense and with over 25 years of legal experience, he can help you.

Source: A training manual for the Drug Evaluation and Classification Program