By John Cutler on September 18th, 2025 in DUI, Field Sobriety Test
In August 2025, I had the privilege of attending one of the nation’s premier courses on blood alcohol testing, hosted by the National College of DUI Defense (NCDD) in Dallas, Texas. The “Serious Science for Serious Lawyers – Advance Course in Blood Alcohol Analysis & Trial Advocacy” seminar brought together leading scientists, nationally acclaimed attorneys, and experts in laboratory quality control for an intensive, hands-on learning experience.
What Made This Training Unique?
This seminar stood out because it combined cutting-edge science with practical courtroom strategies. The balance of technical instruction and advocacy training made it unlike any other continuing education program I’ve attended.
Expert Faculty
The course featured instruction from scientists such as Dr. Kevin Schug (Analytic Chemistry), experts Janine Arvizu (Laboratory Quality Control), Dr. Melissa Giguere, DFS and top DUI defense attorneys including Andrew Mishlove, Francisco “Paco” Duarte, Kimberly Benjamin, Joseph P. St. Louis, and Steven Epstein.
Hands-On Science
Over three days, we delved into the science behind blood alcohol testing—learning about metrology, chromatography, flame ionization detection, and mass spectrometry. We prepared and tested samples in the University of Texas-Arlington’s Shimadzu Laboratory, gaining firsthand insight into laboratory procedures and potential sources of error.
Trial Advocacy
The second half of the seminar focused on trial skills: presenting scientific evidence to juries and judges, structuring compelling stories about science, and mastering cross-examination and voir dire techniques through workshops and demonstrations.
Key Takeaways
The knowledge gained from this seminar will directly impact how I evaluate evidence in DUI cases. By knowing where errors occur, I can better protect my clients’ rights and challenge unreliable test results.
Understanding the Process
From blood collection to laboratory analysis, I learned the standards, methods, and procedures that ensure reliable results—and where mistakes can occur.
Global and National Standards
The training emphasized the importance of following rigorous standards in forensic science, equipping me to better analyze cases and spot issues that may require expert evaluation.
Building Connections
I met experts who can assist in analyzing evidence and testifying in court when procedures are not properly followed.
Training Hours
This intensive course provided approximately 39 hours of training.
Personal Reflections
While I am not a scientist, this experience has made me more qualified to scrutinize blood alcohol evidence in my clients’ cases. The opportunity to work in a real lab, learn from top experts, and practice trial advocacy skills was invaluable. Only a select group of DUI attorneys nationwide have completed this training, and I am proud to be among them.
Strengthening My Defense for DUI Cases
Attending the “Serious Science” seminar was a transformative experience. It deepened my understanding of forensic science and strengthened my ability to advocate for clients facing DUI charges particularly in blood test cases. I am grateful for the opportunity to attend. Continuing to learn and better our skills is one of the core values of the Cutler Law Office, P.A.
Stay tuned, I have already signed up for the National College of DUI Defense’s Course on “Breath Testing from Input to Verdict” in November.
