If you receive a DUI charge in Fort Myers, it is essential to understand the potential consequences. According to Florida Statutes, first-time offenders receive fines of at least $500 and up to six months in prison. After each offense, you face more potential jail time and more significant penalties.
After a DUI charge, you might feel hopeless. However, you should not immediately plead guilty. Continue reading to learn more about DUI defense tactics. Unfortunately, you cannot guarantee a positive result for any criminal charge, but you should still consider your options.
Improper breath test
One of the most common ways to get a dropped charge is how police officers administer the field test. For example, breath tests often give an inaccurate result or give you the test in an unlawful way.
Lack of probable cause
Another possible defense is the validity of the arrest. Police officers need probable cause to pull someone over. If you did not break any traffic laws before coming under suspicion of a DUI, you might have the case thrown out.
Other rights violations
Any other violations of your rights might invalidate the allegations against you. For example, if you decline a field sobriety test, police officers cannot force you to perform one. Also, if the police officer does not inform you of the consequences of a breath test refusal, the court might consider this a violation of your rights.
Fort Myers residents should not automatically accept a plea deal after a DUI arrest. Depending on the specifics of your arrest, you might want to fight the charges and receive a reduced penalty.