2014
What You Need to Know if You’ve Been Arrested for DUI
Kelly Landers / 0 Comments /
Route U.S. 90
If you have been recently arrested for DUI, you will have many concerns. Foremost, you’ll likely be wondering if you can continue to drive. Prior to July 1, 2013, the answer was no. The state of Florida has now changed this law. If no Department of Motor Vehicle Hearing is requested, you will be able to apply for a “hardship license” immediately, with the help of an attorney. If you meet all the conditions — and are otherwise eligible — you will receive this permit and will be able to continue driving.
An experienced defense attorney can assist you with your case, helping you to understand your rights and responsibilities – before you appear in court. It is wise to select an attorney will extensive trial experience, as well as knowledge of the laws in the state and county in which you were arrested — as these differ significantly and change over time.
The “hardship license” rule is an example of a stark change in the laws regulating those arrested for DUI. Previously, if you refused to give a breath test, your license would automatically be suspended for 90 days — and no permit was permitted. If you provided a breath sample and it was above the legal limit (.08), you could not obtain a permit for 30 days. The law is even more complicated for repeat offenders (i.e., two or more DUI charges).
Indeed, laws regulating DUI offenses are arguably more complex than most other criminal offenses. Therefore, if you’ve been arrested for DUI, you’ll want to retain an attorney who is experienced in handling such cases.
Attorney Kelly V. Landers has more than 20 years of experience and has handled hundreds of criminal trials. He has been rated AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell® for the past 15 years, which shows that his professional peers have given him the highest rating available for ethical standards and legal ability. Contact us at 855-FIND-KELLY to learn how we can help you.
Photo by Anderson Mancini / Creative Commons
