FORT WALTON BEACH DUI LAWYER
Florida Penalties for First DUI
Across the country, we have seen an increase in tougher DUI laws in recent years in order to deter drivers from drunk driving. Fort Walton Beach, Florida is no exception and, if a guilty verdict is reached, even a first-time offender can find themselves facing a multi-faceted sentence.
Penalties for a first-time DUI offense in Florida can include:
- Up to $1,000 in fines
- License revocation of at least 180 days
- Probation
- Community service
- DUI school
In some extreme cases, the accused can be sentenced to up to six months in jail (this, however, is uncommon for a first offense). Because these penalties can culminate to a significant interruption of the life the accused, it is highly advised that these drivers seek capable counsel before pleading guilty. At our law firm, we will thoroughly explore any viable defense options and help ensure that this charge impacts your life as little as possible.
Get nearly two decades of legal experience on your side as you confront your DUI charge. Call our offices at (850) 999-0006 today.
Cases We Handle
Defending Against Your Dui Charge
One of the biggest mistakes drivers charged with DUI make is assume that because they've failed their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) test and have been arrested, they have essentially already been found guilty of a crime. This is a misconception. Even if your breath or blood test registered an illegal level of alcohol in your system, you are only suspected of drunk driving. You may still have viable defense options that a skilled Fort Walton Beach DUI attorney can help you pursue.
At our firm, we will assess:
- Probable cause: What was the reason law enforcement pulled you over? Once they did, what caused them to suspect drunk driving?
- Breathalyzer: Was it properly maintained? When was the last time it had maintenance?
- Test protocol: Did officers follow proper protocol when testing a driver for alcohol consumption?
- Miranda issues: After the arrest occurred, were there violations of the defendant's Miranda rights?
- Medical conditions: Are you currently taking any medication? Is there something other than alcohol that could have affected your driving or conduct?
- Evidence handling: After evidence against you was collected, what happened? Is there anything in that timeline that could have affected its integrity?
