What must an officer have to lawfully conduct a DUI stop?

To lawfully conduct a DUI stop, an officer must have reasonable suspicion of impaired driving. This standard requires that the officer has specific and articulable facts leading them to believe that a driver may be operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Reasonable suspicion is a lower threshold than probable cause and allows officers to initiate investigative stops based on observed behavior, such as swerving, speeding, or other signs of impaired control.

While probable cause is necessary for arresting a driver and ultimately obtaining a conviction, reasonable suspicion is sufficient for initiating the stop. This could arise from witnessing erratic driving or the driver's behavior that indicates impairment. Each DUI stop is a complex interaction that balances individual rights with public safety, and reasonable suspicion is the first step in that process.