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Helpful DUI Information

It is important to remember that a DUI charge is just that: a charge. It is not a conviction. Florida has harsh penalties that can affect a person’s license, job, and family, ranging from first time DUI to a Felony DUI conviction. If an out-of-state driver is stopped for drunk driving in Florida, a past DUI or DWI occurring in another state counts as a prior conviction for the purposes of determining the appropriate DUI penalty under Florida law.

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida DUI Law

Will I be able to get my case dismissed because I was not read my rights?

Not likely. The failure to advise of Miranda rights does raises legal issues, but it is not likely to get your case completely dismissed.

Will I go to jail?

On a first offense, probably not. On second or later offenses, it becomes more probable. There are mandatory minimum jail sentences for repeat offenders.

If convicted, how long will the DUI remain on my driving record? How about the criminal record?

It will remain on both records forever!

How many hours of alcohol classes will I have to attend if I am convicted of DUI?

Our purpose is to help prevent anyone from being convicted of DUI. However, if you are convicted, plan on at least 24 to 48 hours, one-two hour session per week. The higher your blood alcohol content, the more hours you will have to attend.

What will happen if I do not complete the classes or community service ordered by the court?

You can be found in violation of probation and may go to jail.

I lost my Florida license. May I obtain a license in another state?

In most cases, no.

If I obtain an international driver's license, may I drive in Florida, even though my Florida license is revoked?

No.

Why is your license taken after your arrest, and when do you get it back?

Under Florida law, your license can be immediately administratively suspended for either a refusal to take a breath, blood, or urine test, or if you have a breath test result of .08 or greater. The length of this suspension can be from six (6) months to eighteen (18) months. If we are successful and win your DMV administrative hearing, you will be able to continue your normal driving.

Does the DMV administrative hearing have any bearing on the criminal hearing?

No. They are two independent proceedings. This administrative or motor vehicle hearing is separate and apart from applying for a business permit. The only way to eliminate this driver's license suspension from your record is through an administrative hearing.

If you are successful and win your administrative hearing, not only will you be able to continue normal driving, but your suspension will be removed from your driving history.

What if I plead guilty or no contest at my bond hearing?

I never recommend that you plead guilty or no contest at a bond hearing. Either a plea of guilty or no contest will result in you being convicted of the charge that you plead to. However, if you do end up entering a plea, there are certain legal remedies where you can ask the Court to allow you to withdraw your plea and get your sentence and conviction set aside. This is a very time-sensitive issue and you should consult an attorney immediately if you find yourself in this position.

What is the difference between a plea of guilty or a plea of no contest?

None. In a DUI case, there is no difference in terms of your criminal record, your driving record, or the penalties imposed. Either a plea of guilty or no contest will both result in a criminal history.

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