Understanding GC/MS and LC/MS Testing in Colorado DUI Prosecutions
If you are facing charges for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while ability impaired (DWAI), the prosecution is likely using evidence from a chemical test against you to show that you had a blood alcohol centration (BAC) of 0.05 percent or higher, depending on the charge you are facing. The type of scientific testing done on the sample will impact the prosecution’s case, and in cases where the gold-standard methods were not used to assess the blood alcohol concentration, a Colorado DUI defense attorney can contest the prosecution’s evidence with more accurate data from more advanced scientific methods.
Two methods that are used in DUI/DWAI cases, and considered to be the most accurate, are gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). What are these forms of testing, and how do they play a role in DUI cases? Our Denver DUI defense attorney can explain in greater detail.
Learning About GC-MS and LC-MS Testing in DUI/DWAI Cases
GC-MS and LC-MS are considered to be among the most nuanced, high-sensitivity, and precise forms of scientific testing to determine the blood alcohol concentration in a chemical sample.
According to the University of Colorado’s Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, these two types of testing require an advanced and high-performance mass spectrometry facility. Both types of tests involve the separation of molecules and substances to allow for a fine-tuned and scientific assessment of the alcohol concentration in the sample.
Using GS-MS and LC-MS Test Results and Analysis to Defend Against DUI or DWAI Charges in Colorado
Toxicology testing in Colorado DUI and DWAI samples can involve different types of methods, as the Colorado Department of Public Safety explains. While testing is completed by labs with forensic training, it can be common for breath and blood samples to undergo types of scientific testing and assessment that are not always the most up-to-date.
A Colorado DUI defense attorney with an ACS Forensic Lawyer-Scientist Designation has scientific expertise in advanced chromatography methods for assessing chemical samples, including GS-MS and LC-MS testing methods. We can ensure that the most advanced tests are completed on your chemical test sample, and we can assess these high-sensitivity chromatography results to contest the scientific analysis supplied by the prosecution. In short, GS-MS and LC-MS testing and scientific analysis from a lawyer-scientist can often allow a person facing DUI or DWAI charges to beat those charges.
Contact a Denver DUI Defense Lawyer for Assistance with Your Case
Are you facing DUI or DWAI charges? Whenever the prosecution’s case involves evidence from a chemical test, it will be crucial to have a defense attorney on your side who has the training and ability to contest the results of that testing and to provide a scientific explanation in your defense. In Colorado, a DUI defense attorney who has received the ACS Forensic Lawyer-Scientist Designation and has DUIDLA Board Certification is in the best position to help you fight the intoxicated driving charges you are facing. An experienced Denver DUI defense lawyer at DeChant Law who has the ACS Forensic Lawyer-Scientist Designation and DUIDLA Board Certification can speak with you today about getting started on your defense and using science to contest the prosecution’s evidence. Contact our firm today to find out more about how we can assist you.
Sources:
forensicchromatography.com/lawyer-scientist/
cbi.colorado.gov/sections/forensic-services/toxicology-services/toxicology-testing
