DUI Defense
If you've been charged with DUI, you have only 10 days to challenge your license suspension. Act now.
Get a Free ConsultationDriving 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. Failure to challenge the suspension means that the DUI will remain on your permanent record 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
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. This is a common misunderstanding. The DUI will remain on your record for 75 years and 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.
YOU CAN 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 A FREE CONSULTATION TODAY
Let us review your case and advise you of your options. There is no cost and no obligation.