Driving under the influence (DUI) in Florida is a serious offense that can lead to severe legal consequences, including fines, license revocation, and even jail time. If you’ve been charged with a DUI, finding the right lawyer is crucial.
Working with the right DUI defense attorneys, like our lawyers, Rick and Jenna Fletcher can make all the difference in reducing your charges or achieving a favorable outcome in court. Our criminal defense team at Fletcher & Fletcher is ready to build your defense for DUI cases.
Here’s a guide about finding the best DUI lawyer in Clearwater, Florida, and the DUI penalties in the state.
6 Things to Consider When Finding a DUI Lawyer in Florida
Getting arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Florida is a serious matter with potentially severe consequences. From hefty fines to jail time and long-term license suspension, a DUI charge can have a significant impact on your life.
Finding the right DUI lawyer to represent you is crucial to reducing your charges or securing a favorable result.
With so many legal practitioners to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you? Below are six essential factors to consider when searching for the best DUI lawyer wherever you are in Florida.
1. Research Thoroughly
Start by conducting thorough research to identify reputable DUI defense lawyers in Clearwater. Use resources like online directories, review platforms, and recommendations from friends or family members. Look for attorneys or firms that handle DUI cases.
2. Look for Experience
Seek a lawyer or firm with experience in DUI defense, like Fletcher & Fletcher. A seasoned DUI attorney understands the complexities of Florida DUI laws and has a track record of successful case outcomes.
3. Assess Reputation and Client Feedback
Client testimonials and online reviews can provide valuable insights into a lawyer’s reputation and effectiveness. Positive reviews and testimonials from previous clients reflect the quality of representation you can expect.
4. Evaluate Case Results and Track Record
Examine the attorney’s track record in handling DUI cases. Have they successfully reduced DUI charges to lesser offenses like reckless driving? Have they secured acquittals in the courtroom? Fletcher & Fletcher, for instance, has decades of combined experience negotiating reductions and achieving acquittals for clients.
5. Consider Communication and Accessibility
A good DUI lawyer should listen to your side of the story, provide clear guidance, and be accessible throughout your case. The best attorneys ensure open lines of communication and keep you informed at every step.
6. Schedule a Free Consultation
Most reputable DUI lawyers offer a free initial consultation. Use this opportunity to assess their experience, communication skills, and willingness to fight for your rights. Be prepared to ask specific questions, such as:
- How long have you practiced DUI law?
- What is your approach to DUI defense?
- What are the potential outcomes for my case?
- How do you charge for your services?
Florida Penalties for DUI Cases
Florida law takes DUIs very seriously. It is possible to receive a jail sentence of up to six months even for a first offense, and repeat offenders face even stiffer penalties. Here’s a summary of penalties:
1. First-Offense DUI in Florida
- Fine between $500–$1,000. (Higher fines apply if your BAC was .15% or higher or if you had a minor in the vehicle.)
- Mandatory 50 hours of community service.
- Jail time up to 6 months.
- License revocation from 180 days up to 1 year.
- Possible requirement to use an ignition interlock device (IID).
2. Second-Offense DUI in Florida (within 5 years of the previous charge)
- Mandatory 10 days in jail.
- 5-year driver’s license revocation.
3. Third-Offense DUI in Florida (within 10 years)
- Mandatory 10-year driver’s license revocation.
- Up to 5 years in prison.
An individual with a fourth or subsequent DUI offense faces a potential felony conviction, up to five years in prison, and a permanent license revocation.
After a DUI charge, your license is partially suspended, but you can use your DUI citation as a temporary permit to drive for business purposes for 10 days.
Implied Consent in Florida
Under Florida’s implied consent law, a first-time refusal to submit to a breath, blood, or urine test results in a 1-year driver’s license revocation. Individuals can apply for a hardship license after 90 days of this revocation period.
Contact Fletcher & Fletcher DUI Attorneys For A Free Initial Consultation Today
Our Clearwater DUI defense lawyers at Fletcher & Fletcher have dedicated their years of service to defending the rights and freedoms of our clients and supporting them to trial if necessary. Here’s why you should choose us:
Florida's Statute of Limitations for DUI
The statute of limitations sets a deadline for prosecutors to begin legal proceedings in a criminal case. The statute of limitations for DUI cases in Florida varies based on how the offense is charged. According to Section 775.15, Florida Statutes, the time limits are as follows:
- First-Degree Misdemeanor: 2 years
- Second-Degree Misdemeanor: 1 year
- Second or Third-Degree Felony: 3 years
- First or Second-Degree Felony: 4 years
- Felony DUI Resulting in Death: No time limit
In Florida, a DUI can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on prior convictions or the severity of injuries in a crash.
Avoiding an administrative suspension after a DUI arrest and a court-ordered revocation after a DUI conviction is crucial, as these penalties will remain on your driving record for 75 years.
Contact Fletcher & Fletcher DUI Attorneys For A Free Initial Consultation Today
If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Clearwater, Florida, it’s essential to act quickly. At Fletcher & Fletcher, our experienced DUI defense attorneys are ready to provide the guidance and legal representation you need. We listen to your story, assess the details of your case, and build a defense strategy tailored specifically to your situation.
Contact us at 727 591-4865 today for a free consultation.
Fletcher & Fletcher: Clearwater DUI Defense Lawyers
Our Clearwater DUI defense lawyers at Fletcher & Fletcher have dedicated their years of service to defending the rights and freedoms of our clients and supporting them to trial if necessary. Here’s why you should choose us:
- Experience: Our firm has lawyers seasoned in in handling DUI cases and has decades of combined experience fighting for our clients’ rights.
- Proven Results: We’ve successfully negotiated numerous DUI reductions to reckless driving charges and obtained acquittals in the courtroom.
- Client-Centered Approach: We listen to your side of the story and build a defense that highlights favorable facts for your case.
