A DUI Defense Attorney Who Fights For Your Rights And Freedom
Drunk driving is one of the most commonly charged crimes in Florida, but that doesn’t mean it is treated lightly. Depending on the circumstances, DUI/DWI conviction can result in jail time, fines, installation of an ignition interlock device and other harsh consequences. It also results in a criminal record, which has its own consequences for your future employment and housing eligibility.
If you are facing DUI/DWI charges, it is important to seek the help of a skilled DUI defense firm like Cantor & Cantor. Our attorney brings 20 years of criminal defense experience to each case. He has helped countless clients throughout Southwest Florida, and he can help you, too.
Factors That Will Influence Your Charges
The charges you face and the potential sentence associated with conviction will depend on the several important details of your case. These include:
- Whether it was a first-offense DUI or a repeat offense
- What your blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) was, according to breathalyzer test results
- Whether you took a breathalyzer test when asked or refused it
- Whether you were involved in a car accident or caused bodily injury/death to someone else
- Whether there were other aggravating factors, such as a minor passenger in the car at the time of arrest
Not all DUI cases are routine and charged in the same way. It is critical to speak with an experienced attorney right away to better understand what you’re up against and what your legal options may be.
It Is Possible To Successfully Defend Against DUI Charges
You may assume that taking a plea deal is the best result you can hope for. That may be true in some cases, but certainly not always. A skilled DUI defense lawyer like Zack Cantor may be able to help you challenge the charges based on:
- Problems with the way tests were administered
- Assertions of faulty breathalyzers and other equipment problems
- Assertions that the police officer did not have a valid reason to pull you over in the first place
- Challenging evidence of field sobriety tests based on medical conditions that could have caused you to fail
- Any deviation from officer protocol that could have tainted the interaction or violated your rights
Our firm thoroughly combs through the details of your DUI arrest to determine all possible challenges to the charges.
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida DUI
Florida DUI laws can be very tricky, and things can escalate quickly without the correct legal knowledge. With more than 20 years of experience handling DUI cases throughout Florida, our attorney possesses a deep understanding of the law and has encountered nearly every type of DUI situation. As such, our firm is committed to providing accurate legal information that can assist you and help ensure you make a profound legal decision.
What is the difference between DUI and DWI?
In Florida, the terms DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) are often used interchangeably; however, DUI is the official term used in the state law. DUI entails impairment due to alcohol and/or drugs, while DWI may be more commonly referenced in other states.
As such, Florida law states that a person can be charged with DUI if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08% or higher. Furthermore, charges can be made if an individual is impaired by drugs or a combination of substances, irrespective of their BAC level.
What is an aggravated DUI in Florida?
An aggravated DUI in Florida refers to specific circumstances that elevate the severity of a DUI charge, resulting in harsher penalties. Aggravating factors can include:
- Having a BAC of .15% or higher
- Causing injury or death to another person while driving under the influence
- Having a minor (under 18 years old) in the vehicle at the time of the offense
Aggravated DUI charges are taken very seriously in Florida and can lead to severe legal consequences. The penalties for aggravated DUI are significantly harsher compared to a standard DUI. If charged, you may face increased fines, longer license suspensions and mandatory jail time.
How long will a DUI/DWI stay on your record?
A DUI conviction remains on your criminal record for 75 years. Unlike some other states, Florida does not allow DUI convictions to be expunged or sealed from a criminal record. This long-lasting record can significantly affect various parts of life, including employment opportunities and driving privileges.
Under specific circumstances, first-time offenders may have access to programs like pretrial diversion, which could potentially lead to a dismissal of charges. Therefore, it is indispensable to understand the potential long-term impact of a DUI conviction on one’s record to know the next course of action.
Contact Us Today For A Free Discussion About Your Case
Cantor & Cantor serves clients throughout Southwest Florida. To schedule your free initial consultation, call us in Fort Myers at 239-494-3164, or reach us online.
Suggested Reading:
Can Drivers Refuse A Field Sobriety Test in Florida?
Navigating A DUI Stop in Florida
I’ve Been Charged With A DUI/DWI In Fort Myers, Florida. Now What?