Orlando DUI Lawyer

D riving while under the influence of alcoholic beverages or a controlled substance can be deadly.  If you are found guilty of driving while under the influence, you will be facing some sizeable penalties.  On a first offense, these penalties can include imprisonment of up to six months, losing your driver license for up to a year, a fine of $500.00, court costs, completion of substance abuse courses, and at least 50 hours of community service.  Second and subsequent offenses are dealt with more severely.   You will definitely want to contact an attorney or lawyer immediately about these matters due to the strict deadlines involved.

The State of Florida has an "implied consent" law.  This means if you are operating a motor vehicle in Florida and are arrested for driving under the influence of alcoholic beverages, it is implied that you will consent to take a test of your breath.  This consent can be seen on your Florida driver's license, directly above your signature.

These tests, conducted by the Intoxilyzer 8000, determine your blood alcohol level.   You have the right to pay for a second test; however, it must be administered by a third-party physician or a laboratory technician. 

If you refuse to take the test, or if you take the test and the test reveals a blood alcohol level of .08 or higher, your license will be seized by the law enforcement officer and suspended in approximately 30 days.  You may have your driver’s license suspended for a period of one year for a first refusal and a period of 18 months if your driving privilege has been previously suspended for refusing to submit to a breath test.  Moreover, a second or subsequent refusal can be charged as an additional criminal offense. 

If your license has been seized for a DUI, you may have a right to review the action of the officer at a DMV Hearing.  Follow the link for more information: Department of Motor Vehicles Review Hearings.

If you or a loved one need to speak with an attorney or lawyer concerning any criminal, family, or DUI legal matter, please call 407-246-8788 for a FREE CONSULTATION.