(561) 988-8000 Facing accusations of a DUI offense can be a scary and intimidating time in a person’s life. For many individuals, this is their first and only interaction with Florida’s Criminal Justice System. Simply being arrested can be a traumatic experience, to say nothing of the potential penalties that a person may face.
There are many ways the State can pursue a DUI charge against an individual, and many people are surprised to learn that they can still face these charges without the use of a breath or blood test. Our Palm Beach Gardens DUI Lawyers are dedicated to educating people about Florida’s DUI Laws and defending them in Court. Speaking with a skilled criminal Attorney could help you fight criminal DUI charges.
What is the Legal Definition of Driving Under the Influence?
Under Florida Statute 316.193, DUI is defined as being in control of a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or another substance, or with a BAC of .08 or more. The Prosecution may rely on officer observations if no chemical test is available. Refusing a test can result in immediate license suspension and be used against you to prove that you knew or thought that you were impaired. A Palm Beach Gardens criminal defense Attorney from our firm can help you understand your rights and legal options after a drunk driving charge.
The DUI Process
After a DUI arrest, you are booked at the Palm Beach Gardens Police Department or County Jail. You may be released on bond. Vehicle impound details are usually provided upon release. If you cannot bond out, you will have a “First Appearance” in front of a Judge in the Main Jail inWest Palm Beach. One of our Lawyers can guide you through these steps to protect your rights and prepare your defense. We will also attend your First Appearance to ensure that you are released with the least amount of conditions and restrictions.
DUI Defense Strategies
A Palm Beach Gardens drunk driving Lawyer may challenge the stop by questioning probable cause, field sobriety results, or breathalyzer accuracy. We may identify rights violations or introduce expert witnesses such as toxicologists or engineers. In some cases, a rising blood alcohol defense or necessity defense may apply. These strategies can be critical in weakening the State’s case.
What to Do After a DUI Arrest
Whether you blow overt the legal limit or resuie to take a blood, breath or urine test, you have only 10 days to request a DHSMV hearing to contest your license suspension. Waiting to hire a DUI Lawyer in Palm Beach Gardens can cost you important evidence and an opportunity to get a hardship licesnse as well as , digital evidence or witness accounts. Our firm acts quickly to preserve evidence and file motions. Speaking with our team right away improves your chances of success.
DUI Penalties and Collateral Consequences
A first DUI offense carries, fines, probation, DUI school. Substance abuse treatment, community service, license suspensions and random testing for drugs and alcohol. A second or third DUI results in steeper penalties, including possible Jail time. Felony DUI charges apply if serious injuries or death occur or if there are prior convictions. Aggravating factors include high Blood Alcohol Level, minors in the vehicle, or involvement in an accident. A conviction can also impact employment, housing, and insurance rates.
Speak With a Palm Beach Gardens DUI Attorney Today
DUI charges can have lifelong consequences. A Palm Beach Gardens DUI Lawyer from Leifert & Leifert can defend your rights and help you work toward the best possible outcome. Contact us today for a free consultation and let our team fight on your behalf.
