DUI Defense Lawyer Fort Lauderdale
The police are not your friends. From the moment they pull over your car, they are looking for reasons to arrest you for DUI (often called DWI). Each question they ask — and each test they try to get you to take — is geared toward proving that you were drinking and driving.
That is why it is critical to work with a criminal defense attorney who will diligently protect your constitutional rights. At The Law Office of Gustavo E. Frances, P.A., in Fort Lauderdale, I fight hard for you, making sure that the police do not overstep the bounds of the law and that you get the best possible results in your DUI/DWI case.
If you have been arrested for a DUI, you need to take action to protect yourself. It is important to understand that anything you say to law enforcement after being arrested can become evidence that will potentially be used against you.
What’s The Worst That Can Happen?
Every DUI/DWI case is unique. While the law is the same, the way it applies to the facts is always different. That is why it can be difficult to predict the outcome of your DUI/DWI case without talking to a DUI defense attorney in Fort Lauderdale.
At The Law Office of Gustavo E. Frances, P.A., I have handled many drunk driving defense cases. Based on court information about DUI penalties, I can help you answer important questions regarding your DUI defense — like, “What’s the worst that can happen?”
When we talk at my office, we will discuss all relevant considerations relating to your legal matter, including the results of a breath test, field sobriety tests, and other circumstances surrounding your DUI/DWI arrest. I will answer all your questions and help you understand Florida’s drunk driving law.
Is Hiring a DUI Lawyer Worth it?
Hiring a Fort Lauderdale DUI defense lawyer is very much worth it simply because DUI is one of two jailable traffic infractions. First offense DUIs, if you are guilty, can send you to jail for up to six months. Meanwhile, a second offense can put you behind bars for up to one year. It is crucial to hire an attorney right away. To make sure you have the best lawyer, though, you have to ask many questions.
You want to hire someone who focuses a significant portion of their practice on DUI defense. Also, look to see that the person is a member of the National College for DUI Defense. Lastly, you want an attorney who has experience with DUI trials. Lawyers with significant knowledge will help you immensely.
Why Should You Never Represent Yourself in a DUI Case?
DUI defense is very technical every year, and the legislature makes DUI laws more complex. For example, you must have command of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) protocol for identifying impaired drivers. Additionally, it would help if you had their protocol for field sobriety testing. You must know what tests are administered by a police officer when it comes to a DUI stop. Become familiar with Florida’s Department of Health regarding the operation of breath testing devices. Having a firm grasp of all elements of trial practice is crucial since the chances that someone with no background in DUI law can defend themselves is not realistic.
Should I Refuse a Breathalyzer Test?
If you decide to refuse a breath test in Florida, you face a mandatory driver’s license suspension. The first offense for refusing a breath test will result in your driver’s license being suspended for up to one year. Refusing a breath test for a second or third time will result in your driver’s license being suspended for up to 18 months. You might also face time in jail. You are well within your rights to refuse the breathalyzer test in Florida, but it might not be the best decision.
One of the biggest reasons why you should not refuse the breath test in Florida is that it will disqualify you from entering into the Florida Diversion Program. Being able to enter this program can possibly help you obtain a lighter sentence compared to what you could receive after a chemical test.
What Happens if You Fail the Roadside Sobriety Test?
Failing the field sobriety test does not automatically result in giving up hope. The difficulty of the field test should not discourage you. If you find the right lawyer who will go through every facet of your case, you are on the right track. An exceptional attorney evaluates your case and whether or not it should go to trial.
What Makes a DUI Case Different From a Standard Criminal or Traffic Case?
The technical and specific nature of evidence in a DUI case makes the claims challenging to try successfully. A Fort Lauderdale DUI defense lawyer must command many different elements that are not present in other types of crime.
The Knowledge To Help You Get Results
I worked as an assistant public defender for three years before starting my own law practice. During that time, I defended hundreds of defendants with cases ranging from misdemeanors to first-degree felonies. Many of these were DUI/DWI cases.
During this time, I became familiar with criminal law and the procedures involved. I grew to know many of the prosecutors and judges, and I use my knowledge to help my clients make smart choices about their own legal situations.
The Actions You Take Now Will Determine Your Future. Call Me Now.
When you have been arrested for DUI/DWI, talk to me about the smart choices in your own situation. You can reach The Law Office of Gustavo E. Frances, P.A., toll-free at 954-533-2756. I am available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. And consultations are always free and confidential.
Contact Me For Criminal Defense
For legal representation in any criminal matter in Florida, please reach out to me online or call me toll-free at 954-533-2756.
