DUI Defense
If you've been charged with DUI, you have only 10 days to challenge your license suspension. Act now.
Available 24/7The 10-day clock is already running
Driving Under the Influence
If you have been charged with driving under the influence, you'll have to think quickly in order to preserve your license. There are just 10 days to challenge the administrative suspension of your driver's license. Fail to challenge it and the suspension goes on your driving record, where the DMV keeps it for 75 years.
Helping You Drive Your Life Forward
We want to keep you driving, so we will fight your DUI by conducting a thorough examination of the evidence. Our goal is to have the charges dismissed or reduced so that your license won't be revoked.
We start by filing the proper legal documents with the DMV — often you'll have your temporary license the same day. We then file pleadings of not guilty in your criminal case and begin gathering evidence to ruthlessly challenge your DUI. In most cases, you will not have to appear in court, as we can appear on your behalf.
The Administrative Side of DUI
A DUI arrest starts two separate cases in two separate places, and it helps to keep them apart in your head: the DMV suspends, and the court convicts. The DMV case is about your driver's license and your driving record. The criminal case is about a conviction and your criminal record. Winning one does not automatically resolve the other — we handle both.
If arrested for DUI and you provided a sample above the legal limit of .08, or if you refused to provide a sample, your license is taken and forwarded to the Florida DMV. You only have 10 days following your arrest to challenge this suspension.
Q: I didn't know I only had 10 days — can I just explain this to the DMV?
A: NO. Ignorance of the law will not excuse you from the 10-day timeframe. There are defenses available in certain circumstances — contact our office for details.
Q: What happens if I win the DMV administrative hearing?
A: Your license will be reissued and the suspension will be removed from your driving record. This saves you from higher insurance premiums, inability to rent a car, and many other negative effects.
Q: Can I get a hardship license even if my license has been suspended?
A: YES, in most circumstances a hardship license is available for first-time offenders after a 30- or 90-day period has passed from the date of suspension.
The Criminal Side of DUI — First Offense
Florida Statutes 316.193 & 316.1932 explains the criminal sanctions for a DUI. If you are a first-time offender found guilty, you may face:
- Mandatory conviction of misdemeanor crime
- Fines ranging from $500–$1,000 plus additional fees
- Up to 6 months in jail
- DUI school and counseling
- License revocation for 6–12 months
- 50 hours of community service
- Impoundment of vehicle
- 12 months of probation
- Ignition interlock device
DUI Penalty Tables
| Penalty | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| Fine | $1,000 | $2,000 |
| Fine (BAC ≥ .15 or minor in vehicle) | $2,000 | $4,000 |
| Jail Time | 10 Days | 9 Months |
| License Suspension | 5 Years | |
| Vehicle Impoundment | 10 Days; 30 Days if within 5 years | |
| Ignition Interlock Device | Minimum 1 Year | |
| Penalty | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| Fine | $1,000 | $5,000 |
| Jail Time | 30 Days | 5 Years in Prison |
| License Suspension | 10 Years | |
| Ignition Interlock Device | Minimum 2 Years | |
| Penalty | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| Fine | $2,000 | $2,500+ |
| License Suspension | Permanent Revocation | |
| Probation | 1 Year | |
Q: I have been told the DUI will "fall off" my record after 3–5 years?
A: NO. And there are two records to think about. The administrative suspension stays on your DMV driving record for 75 years. A DUI conviction stays on your criminal record permanently — Florida does not allow a DUI conviction to be sealed or expunged. Either one can be used by insurance companies to inflate your bill, by employers to deny employment, and by the State Attorney to enhance future DUI charges.
Q: I wasn't read my Miranda rights — how will this affect my case?
A: Generally, the Miranda warning only applies if you have been placed under arrest and are being interrogated. Information you offer prior to arrest is fair game. There are exceptions that vary case-by-case.
Q: I only had prescribed medication in my system — how can I be charged with DUI?
A: You can be charged with DUI on your own prescribed medication if it impairs your ability to walk, talk, hear, observe, and perceive. There are many defenses available in these situations.
Finance 100% of Your DUI Defense Fees
Our office works with several companies that will finance 100% of the fees. Flexible payment plans with no interest if paid within 6 months, and loan terms up to 2 years.
Get Answers About Your Case Today
A free, confidential consultation is the fastest way to understand your options — and your next step.