September 6, 2014
Instances of DUI criminal offenses have become increasingly common in the United States, year after year. A lapse in judgment or a single drink before getting behind the wheel of a car can often destroy the lives of even the most responsible drivers.
Your best chances of success in any court case are to know the best strategies as early as possible in how to get out of a DUI charge. Here, we look at how to fight your DUI charges, and if it is in your best interest to do so.
Fighting the Evidence Against You
As with any charge, when accused of a DUI you are innocent until proven guilty. The best way to avoid a DUI conviction is by hiring an experienced lawyer to defend your case. A skilled attorney can cast reasonable doubt on any evidence that you were truly intoxicated. Many of the field sobriety tests used by police officers as proof of intoxication can be challenged in court.
Another way to fight your DUI charges is by challenging the legality of how the evidence was collected. Claiming that the evidence was gathered as a result of an illegal traffic stop can cause breathalyzer test results to be thrown out.
Challenging the evidence is the best way to have a jury find you not guilty. Just because there is evidence against you does not mean you cannot successfully fight the charges against you with the assistance of a skilled and qualified DUI attorney.
DUI Charges in Florida
The DUI law in Florida states that your license can be suspended for six months or more, even if it is only the first offense. Florida law enforcement and prosecutors are strict on the matter, offering little leniency. It is imperative to hire a lawyer who is experienced in the specific arguments and laws surrounding DUI charges. Your lawyer may be able to assist you in fighting your charges, but you should still remain aware of the penalties surrounding these. The penalties even for a first time DUI may include:
- A probation sentence of up to a year
- At least a six-month period of driver’s license suspension
- Increased insurance costs or loss of coverage altogether
- Up to six months of possible jail time
As your DUI attorney, we will work with you and do everything in our power to help you in court. Call us today for your free, initial consultation.