Miami, FL Out-of-State DUI Attorney

Experienced Attorney Helping Residents of Other States Defend Against DUI Charges in Miami, Florida

Florida is a popular destination for tourists, business travelers, and seasonal residents. For people who are visiting Miami, a DUI arrest can turn a short stay into a long legal problem. Some people may believe that a DUI charge in Florida will not affect them once they return home, but Florida reports DUI convictions to other states, and drivers will typically face license suspensions and other penalties in their home states in addition to DUI charges in Florida.

If you are an out-of-state driver who has been arrested for DUI in Miami, it is crucial to work with a local DUI defense lawyer who can handle your case. At The Hoffman Firm, our attorney can work to address the charges against you, minimize the potential penalties, and in some cases, even resolve the case without you having to appear in court.

How a Florida DUI Will Affect Your Driver's License in Your Home State

Florida participates in the Driver License Compact, an agreement between most U.S. states to share information about traffic violations and DUI offenses. A DUI conviction in Florida will be reported to your home state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Your home state may then impose penalties such as the suspension of your driver's license, and you may also face increased insurance rates or be required to take DUI education programs.

You cannot avoid DUI penalties simply by leaving Florida. While each state has its own DUI laws, most states will honor arrests and penalties imposed in Florida. Even if your home state has different BAC limits or sentencing guidelines, it will typically enforce a Florida DUI conviction and suspend your license for the appropriate period of time.

Penalties for a DUI Conviction in Florida

Out-of-state visitors face the same penalties for DUI as Florida residents. A first-time DUI will typically result in a fine of between $500 and $1,000, a driver's license revocation for six months to one year, and a potential jail sentence of up to six months. A second offense can lead to fines between $1,000 and $2,000, a five-year driver's license revocation, and a jail sentence of up to nine months. Subsequent offenses will usually result in felony DUI charges.

DUI Defense for Out-of-State Drivers

Dealing with a DUI charge in Florida while living in another state can be stressful. At The Hoffman Firm, our Miami DUI defense lawyer can appear in court on your behalf, allowing you to avoid traveling back to Florida. If court appearances will be required, our attorney may request virtual appearances, or we may be able to consolidate hearings to reduce the need for travel as much as possible.

Our lawyer will also provide guidance on the best ways to resolve your case from out of state. Ideally, we will work to have the case dismissed before it ever goes to trial. We can review the circumstances of your arrest to determine whether any errors were made by law enforcement. If the traffic stop was illegal, if there were flaws in field sobriety tests, or if there is a lack of conclusive evidence, the charges may be dismissed.

If a dismissal will not be possible, we can help you determine what other options may be available. You may be able to make a plea in absentia, allowing your case to be resolved without you being present. We can negotiate an agreement with the prosecutor allowing you to plead guilty to a lesser offense, and you may also qualify for deferred adjudication or a pre-trial diversion program. If you are convicted and sentenced to probation, community service, or other penalties, we will work to have these transferred to your home state. Our goal is to help you resolve your case as easily and efficiently as possible.

Contact Our Miami Out-of-State DUI Defense Attorney

If you were arrested for DUI while visiting Miami, you should not ignore these charges. A conviction in Florida will be reported to your home state, and the consequences can follow you long after you leave. The Miami DUI defense lawyer at The Hoffman Firm can fight to reduce your charges and handle your case with minimal disruption to your life. For a free consultation, contact our office today by calling 305-249-0090. We are available 24/7 to assist you.