A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge in Fort Lauderdale is a serious offense that can have lasting legal, financial, and personal consequences. Whether it’s your first DUI or a repeat offense, understanding your rights and legal options is crucial. Here’s what you need to know if you’re facing a DUI charge in Fort Lauderdale.
1. Understanding Florida’s DUI Laws
Under Florida law, you can be charged with a DUI if:
- Your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher (0.02% for drivers under 21 and 0.04% for commercial drivers).
- You are impaired by alcohol or drugs to the extent that your normal faculties are affected, even if your BAC is below 0.08%.
2. Penalties for a DUI in Florida
The penalties for a DUI depend on factors like your BAC level, prior offenses, and whether there were injuries or property damage. Potential penalties include:
- First Offense: Fines between $500 and $1,000, up to 6 months in jail, license suspension for 6 to 12 months, and mandatory DUI school.
- Second Offense: Higher fines, up to 9 months in jail, mandatory ignition interlock device, and a longer license suspension.
- Third Offense (within 10 years): Considered a felony, with up to 5 years in prison, permanent license revocation, and heavy fines.
3. The Importance of Hiring a DUI Attorney
A DUI conviction can have serious consequences on your future, including job loss, increased insurance rates, and a permanent criminal record. A skilled DUI defense attorney can help:
- Challenge the validity of breathalyzer or field sobriety tests.
- Investigate if the traffic stop was legal.
- Negotiate reduced charges or alternative sentencing options, like DUI diversion programs.
4. What to Do After a DUI Arrest
- Remain silent and avoid discussing your case with the police.
- Request a lawyer before answering any questions.
- Understand your rights regarding breathalyzer and field sobriety tests. Refusing a breath test can lead to automatic license suspension, but your lawyer may challenge this in court.
Final Thoughts
A DUI charge in Fort Lauderdale is serious, but with the right legal strategy, you may be able to reduce penalties or even get the charges dismissed. Contact an experienced DUI defense attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
This post was written by a professional at The Law Office of Eric H. Clayman, P.A. The Law Office of Eric H. Clayman, P.A., serves Ft. Lauderdale and Broward County, specializing in criminal defense, including DUI, drug crimes, and violent offenses. With a background as a former police officer, Eric H. Clayman brings invaluable insight into law enforcement procedures. His experience as a DUI investigator, narcotics investigator, and member of street crimes and auto theft units, along with executing high-risk felony warrants, gives him a strategic edge in defending his clients. Committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best results, the Law Office of Eric H. Clayman, P.A., dui lawyer Davie FL, is your trusted ally in the face of criminal charges.
