First Offense DUI Lawyer In Fort Myers, Florida
Last updated on August 21, 2026
A DUI arrest can be a stressful situation to face alone. Beyond the effect a criminal charge can have on your personal and professional life, facing the legal system can feel daunting when you have never dealt with it before.
Cantor & Cantor represents people facing first-offense DUI charges throughout Lee County and the greater Fort Myers area. Attorney Zachary Cantor brings more than 20 years of criminal defense experience and personally handles each case from the first call through its resolution.
What Happens After The Arrest
A first DUI arrest may result in two separate proceedings: the criminal case in Lee County and an administrative driver’s license suspension based on an unlawful alcohol level or test refusal.
If you receive an administrative suspension, you generally have 10 days from the notice to request a formal or informal review. Some drivers with no prior DUI conviction or qualifying administrative suspension may instead qualify for restricted driving privileges for business purposes, although choosing that option generally waives the right to formal or informal review.
What Are The Penalties For A First DUI In Fort Myers
A conviction can result in several penalties and depending on the circumstances. These may include:
- A fine of $500 to $1,000
- A maximum jail sentence of six months
- Up to one year of probation and at least 50 hours of community service
- Completion of DUI school and possible vehicle impoundment or immobilization
- Driver’s license revocation for 180 days to a year
If your blood alcohol level was 0.15 or higher or a person under 18 was in the vehicle, the fine increases to $1,000 to $2,000 and the maximum jail term increases to nine months. The court also requires an ignition interlock device for at least six months when you qualify for a permanent or restricted license.
How To Protect Your Rights
When first DUI penalties in Fort Myers are at stake, the evidence behind the charge matters from the start. We review the case for issues that may affect what prosecutors can use:
- Whether the officer had a lawful basis to stop and detain you
- Whether the breath test followed required procedures and used properly inspected equipment
- Whether the officer properly administered and documented the field sobriety exercises
Problems with the stop or testing may also provide grounds to challenge the evidence.
Speak With A Lawyer Now
A first DUI arrest can involve unfamiliar deadlines that require your attention. Call Cantor & Cantor at 239-494-3164 for a free consultation. We are available 24/7 to discuss what happened and explain the options that may be available.