When you’re facing a DUI, it can feel like the evidence is stacked against you. But the truth is, the prosecution’s case is often not as solid as it seems. From the moment the officer pulled you over to the administration of a breathalyzer test, every step must follow strict legal procedures. Was the initial traffic stop even legal? Were the field sobriety tests conducted correctly? Was the testing equipment properly calibrated? A strong defense is built by asking these questions and scrutinizing every detail. An arrest doesn’t have to lead to a conviction, and a skilled DUI lawyer in Palm Beach County knows exactly where to look for weaknesses in the state’s case to build your strongest defense.
Key Takeaways
- Act Immediately to Protect Your License: A DUI arrest starts a 10-day countdown to request a DHSMV hearing. Missing this deadline results in an automatic license suspension, regardless of your criminal case’s outcome, so contacting an attorney right away is essential.
- Every Piece of Evidence Can Be Challenged: An arrest is not a conviction. A strong defense involves scrutinizing every detail, from the legality of the initial traffic stop to the procedures used for sobriety and chemical tests, to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Local Courtroom Experience Is a Strategic Advantage: Choosing an attorney who specializes in DUI defense in Palm Beach County is critical. Their familiarity with local judges, prosecutors, and specific diversion programs provides an inside track to negotiating a more favorable resolution.
Palm Beach County DUI Laws: What You Need to Know
Getting arrested for a DUI is overwhelming, and the laws are complex. Understanding the basics, however, is the first step toward building a defense. In Palm Beach County, a DUI charge isn’t a simple traffic ticket; it’s a serious legal matter with lasting consequences. The process involves two separate battles: one in criminal court and another with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) over your license. Knowing what you’re up against and acting quickly are key.
Florida’s Core DUI Statutes
In Florida, you can be charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) if your “normal faculties” are impaired by alcohol or drugs. This is subjective, based on an officer’s observations like swerving or slurred speech. The second way is if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. You don’t even have to be driving; the law applies if you are in “actual physical control” of the vehicle, like sitting in the driver’s seat with the keys. These traffic offenses carry significant penalties, so it’s crucial to understand your specific charge.
Administrative vs. Criminal Penalties
After a DUI arrest, you face two distinct legal challenges. The first is the criminal case in court, where a conviction can lead to jail time, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record. The second is the administrative license suspension, managed by the DHSMV. This process is entirely separate from your criminal case and can result in an automatic suspension of your driver’s license. You can win your criminal case but still lose your license, or vice versa. Tackling both requires a comprehensive criminal defense strategy.
Why the First 10 Days Are Critical
The clock starts ticking the moment you are arrested. You have exactly 10 days to request a formal review hearing with the DHSMV to challenge the automatic license suspension. If you miss this deadline, your license will be suspended, regardless of your criminal case’s outcome. This is one of the most critical steps in the process. Scheduling this hearing is your only chance to fight the suspension and potentially get a temporary driving permit. An experienced attorney like Yale Galanter can handle this for you, ensuring you don’t lose your rights because a deadline passed.
Your First Steps After a DUI Arrest
The moments following a DUI arrest can feel like a blur. It’s overwhelming, and it’s easy to feel powerless. But the choices you make right now are incredibly important. Taking a few key steps immediately can significantly impact the outcome of your case and protect your future. Think of this as your immediate action plan. It’s about understanding your rights, getting organized, and meeting critical deadlines that can’t be missed. Let’s walk through exactly what you need to do, one step at a time.
Protect Your Rights
First and foremost, you need to protect yourself. You have the right to remain silent, and you should use it. Beyond providing your name and basic information, you are not required to answer questions about where you were going or what you’ve had to drink. In Florida, field sobriety tests and roadside breath tests are voluntary. Politely declining them is within your rights. The most important thing you can do is clearly and calmly state that you want to speak with an attorney. This simple sentence stops the questioning and is your strongest line of criminal defense. Don’t try to explain your side of the story—let a lawyer do that for you.
Gather the Right Paperwork
Once you are released, your next job is to get organized. The police will have given you a stack of papers, and it’s crucial to keep them all together. Find your DUI citation, any bond or bail paperwork, and the information about where your vehicle was towed. These documents contain vital details about your case, including deadlines and case numbers. The decisions you make in the hours and days after an arrest are critical, and having this information ready will help your attorney act quickly on your behalf. Don’t wait to get legal help; bring everything you have to your initial consultation so your lawyer, like Yale Galanter, can get a clear picture of your situation from the very start.
Request an Administrative Hearing
This next step is extremely time-sensitive. After a DUI arrest in Florida, you have only 10 days to request a formal review hearing with the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). This is completely separate from your criminal court case. If you miss this 10-day window, your driver’s license will be automatically suspended, no matter what happens in court. This administrative hearing is your only chance to challenge the suspension. Filing the request properly is a specific legal process, and it’s one of the first things a skilled attorney will handle for you when you’re facing traffic offenses. Don’t let this deadline pass.
Deal with a Suspended License
While you are fighting the administrative suspension, you also need a plan for how you’ll get around. That same 10-day clock is ticking to apply for a hardship license, which would allow you to drive for essential purposes like work, school, or medical appointments. Without it, you could be left without any driving privileges while your case proceeds. Securing a hardship license can make a huge difference in your ability to maintain your daily life and responsibilities. An experienced lawyer can guide you through the application process and help you present the strongest possible case for why you need it. Reviewing a firm’s case results can show you how they’ve helped others in similar situations.
The Lasting Consequences of a DUI Conviction
A DUI charge is serious, and the consequences can extend far beyond a single night in jail or a fine. A conviction creates a ripple effect that can touch nearly every aspect of your life for years to come. Understanding the full weight of these potential penalties is the first step in building a strong defense. From your permanent record to your daily commute and career prospects, the stakes are incredibly high. It’s not just about the immediate legal trouble; it’s about protecting your future.
Impact on Your Criminal Record
One of the most severe consequences is the permanent mark on your record. In Florida, a DUI conviction stays on your criminal record forever. It doesn’t just disappear after a few years. This public record can be accessed by potential employers, landlords, and anyone else who runs a background check. On top of that, it remains on your driving record for 75 years. This isn’t something you can simply wait out. Having a permanent criminal record can close doors to future opportunities and follow you for the rest of your life, making it critical to fight the charge from the very beginning with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
How Long You Could Lose Your License
Beyond the criminal record, a DUI conviction directly impacts your freedom to drive. For a first-time offense, you will lose your driver’s license for at least six months, and the suspension period can be much longer for subsequent offenses or cases with aggravating factors. Think about how much you rely on your car—for work, school, errands, and family obligations. Losing your license can disrupt your entire life. While it may be possible to obtain a hardship license for essential travel, it’s not guaranteed. An attorney who handles traffic offenses can help you understand your options and fight to keep you on the road.
The Financial Cost of a DUI
The financial fallout from a DUI is often staggering. While hiring a skilled lawyer is an investment, the long-term costs of a conviction can be much higher. These expenses go far beyond the initial court fines. You’ll likely have to pay for mandatory DUI school, fees for license reinstatement, and potentially the installation and maintenance of an ignition interlock device in your car. When you add it all up, the total cost can easily run into thousands of dollars. This financial strain can last for years, making a proactive defense essential to protect your financial stability.
What a DUI Does to Your Insurance Rates
A DUI conviction immediately labels you as a high-risk driver in the eyes of insurance companies. As a result, your insurance rates will skyrocket. In Florida, you’ll be required to obtain special FR-44 insurance, which has much higher liability coverage limits than standard policies. You can expect your premiums to increase by about 50%—or even more—for at least three years. This sustained increase adds a significant monthly expense that serves as a constant financial reminder of the conviction. It’s another hidden cost that makes fighting the charge upfront so important.
Effects on Your Job and Personal Life
The consequences of a DUI often spill over into your professional and personal life. A conviction can lead to failed background checks, costing you job opportunities, especially in fields that require driving, professional licenses (like nursing or real estate), or security clearances. It can even lead to termination from your current job. The personal toll can be just as heavy, causing stress and straining relationships with family and friends. The stigma of a criminal record is a heavy burden to carry. Having a dedicated legal advocate like Yale Galanter on your side is about more than just the court case; it’s about protecting your reputation and your livelihood.
Why a Local DUI Lawyer Makes a Difference
When you’re facing a DUI charge, the lawyer you choose can have a massive impact on your future. While any licensed attorney can represent you, there’s a distinct advantage to working with a lawyer who is deeply rooted in the Palm Beach County legal community. It’s not just about knowing the law; it’s about knowing the local landscape—the people, the procedures, and the specific opportunities that exist only in this jurisdiction.
Think of it like this: you could hire a guide who has only read maps of a city, or you could hire one who walks its streets every single day. The local guide knows the shortcuts, the best spots, and how to handle unexpected roadblocks. A local DUI lawyer offers that same level of on-the-ground expertise for the court system. They provide a strategic edge that can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case, turning a frightening and uncertain process into a manageable one with a clear path forward.
Knowledge of Palm Beach County Courts
Every courthouse has its own way of doing things. A local DUI lawyer understands the specific procedures and unwritten rules of the Palm Beach County court system. They know the clerks, the administrative staff, and the precise steps needed to file motions or request hearings correctly and on time. This familiarity prevents simple administrative errors that could otherwise delay your case or weaken your defense. The decisions you make immediately after an arrest are critical, and having an attorney who can expertly manage the local criminal defense process from the very beginning gives you a much stronger footing.
Relationships with Local Prosecutors
An experienced local lawyer has likely spent years building professional relationships with the prosecutors in the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office. This doesn’t mean they get special treatment, but it does mean they have a foundation of credibility and mutual respect. When your attorney is known for being prepared, professional, and a skilled negotiator, prosecutors are often more willing to listen and consider reasonable resolutions. An attorney like Yale Galanter, who has a long-standing reputation in the area, can engage in more productive discussions, which can lead to reduced charges or more favorable plea agreements for their clients.
Understanding of Local Diversion Programs
Palm Beach County offers specific diversion programs that can be a lifeline for those facing a first-time DUI charge. These programs can potentially lead to your charge being reduced to a lesser offense, like reckless driving, or even dismissed entirely upon successful completion. However, an attorney who doesn’t regularly practice here may not know the full range of options or the specific eligibility criteria. A local lawyer is well-versed in these programs and knows which prosecutors are open to them. They can effectively argue for your inclusion, giving you a chance to avoid a permanent DUI conviction on your record.
Familiarity with Local Judges
Just as they know the prosecutors, local DUI attorneys are familiar with the judges presiding over Palm Beach County courtrooms. They understand each judge’s background, temperament, and how they tend to rule on certain legal arguments and motions. This insight is invaluable when building a defense strategy. Your lawyer can tailor their arguments to be more persuasive to a specific judge and anticipate how they might handle sentencing. This familiarity, built over years of courtroom appearances, allows your attorney to present your case in the most effective way possible, which is often reflected in their case results.
What to Look For in a Palm Beach County DUI Lawyer
Finding the right lawyer can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with the stress of a DUI charge. It’s tempting to just pick the first name that comes up in a search, but the attorney you choose can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. Not all lawyers have the specific experience needed to handle a DUI defense effectively. You need someone who doesn’t just practice law, but who focuses on criminal defense and understands the unique challenges of a DUI case in Palm Beach County.
Think of it like this: if you needed heart surgery, you wouldn’t go to a general practitioner. You’d want a specialist. The same logic applies here. A DUI conviction carries serious, long-term consequences, so finding an attorney with the right skills, a solid track record, and a communication style that works for you is critical. As you begin your search, focus on a few key areas to help you identify a lawyer who can provide the strong defense you deserve. Consider this your checklist for vetting potential attorneys and finding the best fit for your situation.
Specialized DUI Defense Training
A law degree is just the starting point. When you’re facing a DUI, you want an attorney who has gone the extra mile with specialized training in DUI defense. Look for lawyers who are certified in administering and interpreting field sobriety tests, just like the police officers are. For example, some attorneys have training as NHTSA DUI Instructors, which means they can teach law enforcement how to conduct these tests. This kind of in-depth knowledge is a game-changer because it allows your lawyer to scrutinize every detail of the traffic stop and identify procedural errors that could get the evidence against you thrown out.
A Proven Track Record
Experience matters, but the right kind of experience matters more. You need a lawyer who has a history of successfully handling DUI cases in Palm Beach County. Ask about their case results and how many DUI cases they’ve taken to trial. An attorney with a background as a former prosecutor or public defender can also offer a unique advantage, as they understand how the other side thinks and builds its case. A strong track record shows that a lawyer isn’t just familiar with the law—they know how to apply it effectively in the courtroom to protect their clients.
A Clear Communication Style
You’re going to have a lot of questions and concerns throughout this process. The last thing you need is a lawyer who is hard to reach or who speaks in confusing legal jargon. Look for an attorney who prioritizes clear and direct communication. You should feel comfortable asking questions and confident that you’ll get straight answers. A good lawyer will keep you informed about every development in your case and explain your options in a way you can understand. This open line of communication is a key part of our firm’s philosophy and is essential for building the trust you need to get through this.
A Transparent Fee Structure
Let’s be honest: legal fees are a major concern. A reputable lawyer will be upfront and transparent about their fee structure from the very beginning. During your initial consultation, they should clearly explain how they charge—whether it’s a flat fee or an hourly rate—and what that fee covers. While it’s natural to want to find an affordable option, remember that the cheapest lawyer isn’t always the best choice. Consider the potential long-term financial costs of a DUI conviction, which can far exceed the expense of hiring a skilled and experienced attorney to defend you.
The Right Firm Resources
A single lawyer is one thing, but a lawyer backed by the resources of an established firm is another. A strong defense often requires more than just one person’s effort. It can involve investigators, expert witnesses to challenge breathalyzer results, and a dedicated support staff to manage your case efficiently. A firm with deep experience in traffic offenses and a history of taking hundreds of cases to trial has the infrastructure and personnel to build a comprehensive defense strategy. These resources demonstrate that the firm is prepared to fight for you at every stage of the legal process.
How to Build a Strong DUI Defense
Facing a DUI charge can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that an arrest is not a conviction. The prosecution has to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt, and there are many effective strategies a skilled attorney can use to challenge the evidence against you. A strong DUI defense examines every detail of your case, from the moment you were pulled over to the final chemical test results. By scrutinizing each step of the process, your lawyer can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and work toward a more favorable outcome.
Challenge the Initial Traffic Stop
One of the first steps in building a strong DUI defense is to challenge the validity of the initial traffic stop. An officer can’t pull you over on a whim; they must have a legitimate reason, or “reasonable suspicion,” that you’ve violated a law. This could be anything from swerving to having a broken taillight. If the police did not have a valid reason to stop your vehicle, any evidence they gathered during that stop—including field sobriety tests and breathalyzer results—may be deemed inadmissible in court. This is a cornerstone of any solid criminal defense and can sometimes lead to the entire case being dismissed.
Examine Field Sobriety Test Procedures
Field sobriety tests are notoriously subjective and can be influenced by many factors beyond alcohol consumption. Nerves, fatigue, physical limitations, or even poor weather conditions can affect your performance. A skilled DUI lawyer will scrutinize how these tests were administered and whether they were conducted according to the strict, standardized procedures established by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). If the officer gave improper instructions or failed to follow protocol, the results can be challenged. It’s crucial to have an advocate who understands the nuances of these tests and can effectively question their validity in court.
Analyze Chemical Test Results
Chemical tests, like breathalyzer or blood tests, might seem like definitive proof, but they are far from foolproof. For the results to be valid, the equipment must be properly calibrated and maintained, and the officer administering the test must be certified and follow precise protocols. Your attorney can investigate the machine’s maintenance logs and the officer’s training records. Any deviation from the required procedures can render the results unreliable. Successfully challenging the chemical evidence is a common strategy for many traffic offenses and can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case against you.
Protect Your Constitutional Rights
Understanding and asserting your constitutional rights is crucial from the moment you are pulled over. You have the right to remain silent and the right to speak with an attorney. You are not required to answer questions about where you’ve been or what you’ve had to drink. In Florida, performing field sobriety tests and taking a roadside breath test are voluntary. Politely declining these tests is within your rights and can prevent you from providing subjective evidence that could be used against you. An experienced attorney will ensure your rights were protected throughout the entire process and challenge any evidence obtained in violation of them.
Explore Alternative Resolutions
For many first-time offenders in Palm Beach County, fighting the charge in court isn’t the only option. An experienced local attorney can help you explore alternative resolutions, such as the DUI Diversion Program. This program is designed for individuals with a clean record and offers a path to a better outcome. If you qualify and successfully complete the program’s requirements, which may include classes and community service, your DUI charge could be reduced to a lesser offense like reckless driving or even dismissed entirely. Reviewing a firm’s case results can show you how they’ve helped others find these kinds of practical solutions.
What to Expect in DUI Court
Walking into a courtroom can feel overwhelming, especially when you don’t know what’s coming next. A DUI case involves a series of specific legal steps, and understanding them can help reduce some of that stress. After a DUI arrest, you’re actually facing two separate challenges: the criminal case that determines guilt and penalties, and an administrative process with the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) that deals with your driver’s license.
Having an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side is the best way to handle both. Your lawyer will guide you through each stage, from the first court appearance to the final resolution, making sure your rights are protected every step of the way. The decisions you make immediately following an arrest are critical, so getting professional legal advice from the start is essential.
The Arraignment and Your Plea
Your first formal appearance in court is called an arraignment. This is where the judge will officially read the charges against you and ask you to enter a plea: guilty, not guilty, or no contest. In almost every situation, the correct plea to enter at this stage is “not guilty.” This isn’t a denial of facts; it’s a procedural step that keeps all your legal options open and gives your attorney time to review the evidence and build a defense strategy. Pleading guilty right away closes the door on any chance to challenge the charges. An experienced lawyer can often appear at the arraignment on your behalf, so you may not even have to attend.
Filing Pre-Trial Motions
After the arraignment, your attorney gets to work behind the scenes. This phase is all about investigation and strategy. Your lawyer will obtain all the evidence the prosecution has, including police reports, body cam and dashcam footage, and the results of any breath, blood, or urine tests. They will scrutinize every detail to find weaknesses in the state’s case. Based on this review, your attorney can file pre-trial motions. These are formal requests to the judge to exclude certain evidence from being used against you. For example, a motion might argue that the initial traffic stop was unlawful or that the field sobriety tests were administered improperly. A successful motion can sometimes lead to the entire case being dismissed.
Negotiating with the Prosecution
While preparing for trial, your lawyer will also be communicating with the prosecutor. These negotiations are a chance to discuss the case and potentially reach a favorable resolution without going to trial. If your attorney has identified significant flaws in the evidence, they can use that leverage to argue for a reduction or dismissal of the charges. For instance, they might negotiate to have a DUI charge reduced to a lesser offense like reckless driving. A prosecutor is more likely to offer a good deal to a defense attorney they know is a skilled trial lawyer and isn’t afraid to fight in court. Reviewing a firm’s case results can give you an idea of their experience with these negotiations.
The Trial Process
If your case cannot be resolved through motions or a plea agreement, it will proceed to trial. This is where the prosecution must prove your guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt” to a jury of your peers. The trial includes several stages: selecting a jury, making opening statements, presenting evidence and witnesses, cross-examining the other side’s witnesses, and delivering closing arguments. Having a seasoned trial attorney like Yale Galanter is crucial during this process. An effective lawyer knows how to tell your story, challenge the prosecution’s narrative, and create doubt in the minds of the jurors. Their comfort and experience in a courtroom can make all the difference in the outcome.
Options After a Conviction
If you are found guilty at trial or decide to accept a plea, the case moves to the sentencing phase. Even at this stage, your attorney’s job isn’t over. They will advocate on your behalf for the most lenient sentence possible, presenting mitigating factors and arguing against harsh penalties like jail time or a lengthy license suspension. It’s important to understand that in Florida, a DUI conviction stays on your criminal record permanently and cannot be sealed or expunged. This makes it absolutely critical to mount the strongest possible defense from the very beginning. An experienced attorney can also advise you on any potential grounds for an appeal after the conviction.
How to Find the Right DUI Lawyer for You
Choosing the right lawyer can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with the stress of a DUI charge. But finding the right legal partner is the most important step you can take to protect your future. This isn’t just about finding someone to stand next to you in court; it’s about finding an expert who understands the specific laws, procedures, and players within the Palm Beach County legal system. The consequences of a conviction can ripple through your life for years, affecting your job, your finances, and your freedom.
Think of it as hiring a specialist for a critical job—because that’s exactly what it is. You need someone with the right experience, a clear strategy, and a communication style that gives you confidence. A great DUI lawyer does more than just know the law; they provide a clear path forward when everything feels uncertain. They will manage the deadlines, handle the paperwork, and build a defense strategy tailored to the unique facts of your case. Taking the time to find the right person is an investment in yourself and your future.
Where to Start Your Search
Your search for a DUI lawyer should start online, but you need to know where to look. While general review sites can offer some insight, it’s better to start with legal directories or your local bar association. These resources can give you a list of qualified attorneys in Palm Beach County who specialize in DUI and other traffic offenses. Once you have a shortlist, visit each lawyer’s website. Look for clear information about their experience, their specific focus on criminal defense, and testimonials from past clients. A reputable firm will be transparent about its background and proudly display its case results so you can see a proven track record of success.
Key Questions to Ask in a Consultation
The initial consultation is your chance to interview a potential attorney. Don’t be afraid to ask direct questions to gauge their expertise and approach. Most reputable lawyers offer a free consultation, so take full advantage of it.
Come prepared with questions like:
- How many DUI cases have you handled in Palm Beach County?
- Who will be my primary point of contact at your firm?
- What are the potential outcomes for a case like mine?
- What is your fee structure, and what does it include?
Pay close attention to how they answer. A good lawyer will provide clear, honest answers without making unrealistic promises. They should explain the legal process in a way you can understand and make you feel heard, not rushed.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
As you speak with different attorneys, be on the lookout for red flags. One of the biggest is a lawyer who guarantees a specific outcome, like getting your case dismissed. The legal system is unpredictable, and an ethical attorney will never make promises they can’t keep. Another warning sign is a heavy focus on price. While cost is a factor, don’t just pick the cheapest option. The consequences of a DUI conviction are serious and long-lasting, so investing in a high-quality, experienced lawyer is crucial. Be wary of anyone who creates a sense of high-pressure sales or isn’t transparent about their fees and what they cover.
Making Your Final Decision
After your consultations, it’s time to make a decision. Go with the lawyer who not only has the right experience but also makes you feel the most comfortable. You’ll be working closely with this person, so you need to trust their judgment and feel confident in their ability to represent you. Consider the level of personal attention you’ll receive. Will you be able to speak directly with your attorney, or will you be passed off to a paralegal? Choose the firm that is responsive, communicative, and genuinely invested in your case. Your future is on the line, so you deserve a legal advocate who will fight for you every step of the way.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the most important thing I need to do right after a DUI arrest? The absolute first priority is to address your driver’s license. You have only 10 days from your arrest to request a formal hearing with the DHSMV to challenge the automatic suspension. Missing this deadline means you lose your license, period, no matter what happens with your criminal case. This is a non-negotiable first step, and it’s the first thing a good lawyer will handle for you.
Can I really lose my license even if I’m not convicted in court? Yes, and it’s a point that confuses a lot of people. Your DUI case runs on two separate tracks. The criminal court case determines guilt and potential penalties like fines or jail time. The administrative process with the DHSMV deals only with your driving privileges. You can win your criminal case and still have your license suspended by the DHSMV, which is why challenging that suspension within the first 10 days is so critical.
Is it possible to avoid a permanent DUI on my record? In some cases, yes. A DUI conviction in Florida stays on your record forever, so the goal is to avoid that conviction in the first place. For some first-time offenders, Palm Beach County offers diversion programs. If you qualify and complete the requirements, your charge could be reduced to a lesser offense like reckless driving, which has a much smaller impact on your future. An experienced local attorney can determine if you’re eligible and argue for your inclusion in such a program.
Do I really need a lawyer if it’s my first offense? Absolutely. A first-time DUI is still a serious criminal charge with lasting consequences, including a permanent record, license suspension, and huge insurance hikes. The legal system is complex, and the prosecution is not on your side. An experienced attorney knows how to examine the evidence for weaknesses, from the initial traffic stop to the breathalyzer’s calibration records, giving you the best possible chance at a favorable outcome.
I was told to refuse the field sobriety tests. Is that always the right move? In Florida, the field sobriety tests you’re asked to perform on the side of the road—like walking a straight line or standing on one leg—are voluntary. Politely declining them is within your rights and often a smart move, as they are subjective and difficult to pass even when sober. However, this is different from the official chemical test (breath, blood, or urine) you’ll be asked to take later at the police station. Refusing that test comes with its own automatic penalties, including a longer license suspension.
