How can a criminal defense attorney help with a DUI charge?
An attorney can challenge the legality of the traffic stop, the accuracy of field sobriety tests, the calibration and administration of the breathalyzer, and the procedures followed during your arrest. Procedural errors by law enforcement can result in evidence being suppressed or charges being reduced or dismissed entirely.
What if I was arrested for DUI but not over the legal limit?
Florida law does not require that your BAC exceed 0.08% for a DUI conviction. If law enforcement determines that your normal faculties were impaired by alcohol or drugs, you can be charged regardless of your BAC. This includes impairment from prescription medications, marijuana, and other controlled substances.
Can I get a hardship license after a DUI in Florida?
In many cases, yes. A hardship license allows you to drive for work, school, medical appointments, and other essential purposes during your suspension period. Eligibility depends on the specifics of your case, and you must typically complete DUI school and apply through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
Will a DUI show up on my criminal record permanently?
Yes. Unlike some states, Florida does not allow DUI convictions to be expunged or sealed. A DUI will remain on your criminal record permanently, which can affect employment, housing applications, professional licensing, and immigration status.
Can I refuse a breathalyzer test in Florida?
You can, but there are consequences. Florida’s implied consent law means that by driving on Florida roads, you have already consented to chemical testing if lawfully arrested for DUI. Refusing a breathalyzer results in an automatic one-year license suspension for a first refusal and an 18-month suspension for a second refusal. A second refusal is […]
Do I need a lawyer for a car accident claim in Stuart?
You are not legally required to hire an attorney, but studies consistently show that accident victims who are represented by counsel receive significantly higher settlements than those who handle claims on their own. An attorney handles the investigation, negotiates with the insurance companies, and fights for your full compensation so you can focus on getting […]
How much is my car accident claim worth?
Every case is different. The value of your claim depends on the severity of your injuries, the cost of your medical treatment, your lost wages and earning capacity, the degree of the other driver’s negligence, and the insurance coverage available. An experienced personal injury attorney can evaluate the full scope of your damages after reviewing […]
Should I talk to the other driver’s insurance company?
You are not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer. We strongly recommend consulting with an attorney before having any substantive conversation with them. Insurance adjusters are skilled at asking questions designed to get you to minimize your injuries or accept partial blame.
What if the other driver does not have insurance?
Florida has one of the highest rates of uninsured motorists in the country. If the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough insurance to cover your damages, you may be able to file a claim under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. This is one reason why carrying UM/UIM coverage is so important for […]
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Florida?
Florida’s statute of limitations gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If a loved one was killed in the crash, the family has two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. Missing this deadline almost always means losing your right to […]
