Miami DUI Defense Lawyer

Experienced Attorney Helping Defend Against Drunk Driving Charges in Miami, FL

Even though driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal, some people may make mistakes. Lapses in judgment could lead a person to get behind the wheel after drinking, or the combination of alcohol with certain medications could have had unexpected effects. In some cases, drunk driving charges may be based on false accusations, and a person may need to take steps to demonstrate that they were not intoxicated. Regardless of the situation, a DUI charge can result in serious penalties, and anyone in this situation will need to understand their options for defense.

If you have been arrested for DUI in Miami, it is important to take immediate legal action. At The Hoffman Firm, our lawyer can review your case and develop a defense strategy that will help minimize the potential penalties you may face. In some cases, we may argue for reduced charges, or we may be able to seek a dismissal of the case. Whether you are facing a first-time DUI or a felony DUI charge, our attorney will work to protect your rights and minimize the impact of the case on your life.

Penalties for a First-Time DUI in Florida

Most of the time, a person will be charged with DUI if their blood alcohol concentration was over the legal limit while they were operating a motor vehicle. In Florida, as in most other states, the legal limit is .08 percent. However, DUI charges may also apply if a person was intoxicated due to the use of other substances or a combination of substances.

Even if a person has never been convicted of DUI in the past, they will still face serious penalties when charged with DUI for the first time. If they are convicted, they may be sentenced to up to six months in jail and required to pay fines of between $500 and $1,000. Their license will be revoked for between 180 days and one year. They will also be required to complete a substance abuse program and at least 50 hours of community service.

More serious penalties will apply in certain situations. If a person had a blood alcohol concentration of .15 percent or higher, or if there was a minor under the age of 18 in their vehicle, they may be required to pay fines of $1,000 to $2,000, and the maximum jail sentence increases to nine months. They will also be required to use an ignition interlock device in any vehicle they drive for at least six months.

Other Types of DUI Charges in Florida

Other types of DUI-related charges can result in serious penalties. Our attorney can help defend against charges of:

• Multiple DUI: Penalties increase significantly with a second, third, or subsequent DUI offense. Our lawyer can help defend against convictions or work to minimize the potential consequences in these cases.
• Felony DUI: Intoxicated driving may be charged as a felony for a third or subsequent offense or in situations where DUI caused serious bodily injuries. Our attorney can provide a strong defense to help a person avoid a felony conviction.
• Commercial DUI: A driver who holds a commercial driver's license (CDL) may face additional penalties if they are charged with DUI, and the loss of their license could impact their career. Our lawyer works to help commercial drivers avoid DUI convictions and preserve their licenses.
• Underage DUI: Florida enforces a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 21 years old. Minors charged with DUI may face license suspension and other penalties. Our attorney can help defend against these charges and protect a young person's future.
• Out-of-State DUI: If a resident of another state is arrested for DUI in Florida, their state may suspend their driver's license, and they could face other penalties. Our lawyer can help visitors to Florida determine the best approach to take when defending against DUI charges.
• Driving Under the Influence of Drugs: DUI charges may also apply in cases where a person is allegedly intoxicated due to the use of drugs, including prescription medications, illegal drugs, or over-the-counter substances. Our attorney can provide representation in these situations, helping to defend against accusations of drugged driving.
• Boating Under the Influence (BUI): People in Florida may face charges similar to DUI if they are accused of operating boats while they are intoxicated. Our lawyer can provide a strong defense in these situations, helping to minimize the penalties that a person may face.

DUI Defense Strategies

If you have been charged with DUI in Miami, our lawyer can provide critical legal representation, working to resolve your case while minimizing the effects on your life. Successful strategies for defense may include:

• Challenging the Evidence: Our attorney may question the accuracy of breathalyzer or blood tests or argue against field sobriety tests that were used during a traffic stop prior to a DUI arrest.
• Negotiating for Reduced Charges: Our lawyer may be able to negotiate a plea agreement for a lesser charge, such as reckless driving ("wet reckless"), which carries fewer penalties and does not result in a mandatory license suspension.
• Advocating for Alternative Sentencing: In some cases, our lawyer may determine whether a person may qualify for DUI diversion programs that will allow for the dismissal of charges upon completion. We can also help determine whether participation in community service or alcohol treatment programs can result in reduced penalties.

Contact Our Miami, Florida DUI Defense Attorney

A DUI charge can have lasting consequences. However, with the right legal defense, you may be able to avoid a conviction, reduce penalties, or keep your driving privileges. If you have been arrested for drunk driving in Miami, do not wait to seek legal help. Contact The Hoffman Firm at 305-249-0090 and arrange a free consultation.