Fort Lauderdale DUI Lawyer

Fort Lauderdale DUI Attorney

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, but it is also home to strict DUI laws. Driving under the influence (DUI) is taken very seriously in Fort Lauderdale and the state of Florida, as it poses a significant threat to public safety. If you are caught driving under the influence in Fort Lauderdale, you could face severe penalties, including fines, jail time, and a suspended driver’s license. Despite these strict laws, DUI incidents continue to occur in the city. This makes it important for residents and visitors to understand the consequences and how to avoid them. However, not every DUI case is straightforward. Having an experienced DUI defense lawyer on your side can make the difference between a conviction and an acquittal or reduced sentence.

Prya Murad Law, PLLC: Your Fort Lauderdale DUI Defense Attorney

At Prya Murad Law, PLLC, our experienced Fort Lauderdale DUI defense team has a long history of success in defending clients charged with DUI in Florida. We understand the laws and legal procedures surrounding DUIs and how to use them to our clients’ advantage. Our criminal defense team can work closely with you throughout the legal process. We can use the facts and evidence to build a comprehensive defense strategy tailored to your individual case. We can also use our extensive experience to advocate for your best interests in court. Our firm can help you achieve the most favorable outcome possible under the law.

We also understand the stress and embarrassment of a DUI charge. That is why we approach each case with the utmost professionalism and compassion. Our DUI defense team can take the time to listen to your story, ask questions, and review all relevant evidence. With our help, you can be confident in your legal defense and know that an experienced team is fighting for you. Connect with us today if you are ready to defend your rights and reputation in Fort Lauderdale.

What Constitutes a DUI in Fort Lauderdale?

In Fort Lauderdale and the state of Florida, a person can be charged with DUI if they are found to be operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Under Florida law, a person is considered under the influence if their sobriety test reveals a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. This is the legal limit for adult drivers. The limit is lower for commercial drivers and drivers under 21, at 0.04% and 0.02%, respectively. A person in Fort Lauderdale can face a DUI charge if they are under the influence of drugs, including prescription and illegal drugs, regardless of their BAC level.

Penalties for a DUI in Fort Lauderdale

The penalties for a DUI in Fort Lauderdale and the state of Florida can be severe and vary depending on the circumstances of the offense. These include the offender’s BAC level and whether it is a first-time or repeat offense.

First-time DUI offenses in Florida can result in the following penalties:

• Fines of up to $1,000
• Jail time of up to 6 months
• Driver’s license suspension for up to a year
• Community service
• DUI school
• Probation
• Ignition interlock device installed in the vehicle

Penalties for repeat offenses, or in cases where there are aggravating factors such as a high BAC level, causing an accident, or having a minor in the vehicle, can be more severe, including:

• Fines up to $5,000
• Up to nine years in prison
• Community service
• DUI school
• Probation
• Ignition interlock device
• Vehicle impoundment

A DUI conviction can also result in long-term consequences, such as increased insurance rates, difficulty finding employment, and a criminal record. Fortunately, everyone has the right to defend themselves in court. This will give anyone looking to contest their DUI charge the chance to be heard and potentially avoid the worst possible penalties.

Common Criminal Defenses to Combat an Attempted DUI Conviction

If you have been charged with DUI in Fort Lauderdale, it is important to understand that you have the right to mount a defense against the charges. A skilled DUI attorney can help you navigate the legal system and build a strong defense case. There are several common criminal defenses that may be used to combat an attempted DUI conviction:

• Lack of Probable Cause: One of the key elements in a DUI case is that the police had a valid reason to pull you over or arrest you. Your attorney might show that the police did not have a valid reason to stop you, such as a broken taillight or swerving. If so, the evidence obtained during the traffic stop may be suppressed, and the case could be dismissed.
• Improper Administration of Field Tests: Law enforcement officers often use field sobriety tests to determine if a driver is impaired. However, these tests must be administered correctly and by properly trained officers. If your attorney can show that the tests were not administered correctly or that the officer did not have the proper training, then the results may be deemed unreliable.
• Faulty Breath, Urine, or Blood Test: A breath, blood, or urine test is used to measure a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) level. However, these tests are only sometimes accurate. Your attorney may argue that the test results were inaccurate due to faulty equipment, improper maintenance, or human error.
• Rising Blood Alcohol Content: It is possible that your BAC was below the legal limit at the time of driving but rose above the legal limit during the time it took to administer the test. This is known as the “rising blood alcohol defense,” and your attorney may use it as a defense strategy.
• Medication or Medical Conditions: Your attorney may argue that your actions resulted from a medical condition or prescription medication you were taking and not from alcohol or drug impairment.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: Your attorney may argue that the evidence obtained during the traffic stop was obtained through an illegal search and seizure. If the evidence was obtained illegally, it might be suppressed. The case could even be dismissed.

To mount a successful defense, your attorney will need to gather evidence and present it in a way that undermines the prosecution’s case. It is crucial to have an experienced DUI attorney that can work on your case, evaluate the evidence, and advise you on the best course of action.

What Evidence Can Be Used to Combat a DUI Charge?

When facing a DUI charge in Fort Lauderdale or elsewhere in Florida, it is crucial to have a solid defense strategy. An experienced DUI attorney will be able to evaluate the evidence against you and advise you on the best course of action. Here are some examples of evidence that can be used to combat a DUI charge:

• Video Evidence: Video evidence can be a powerful tool in a DUI case. Dashcam or body camera footage from the officer who pulled you over or arrested you is especially important. It can be used to show that the officer did not have a valid reason to stop you or that the officer did not follow proper procedures. For example, if the officer did not read you your Miranda rights or did not have a valid reason to administer a field sobriety test, this footage can be used to support your defense.
• Test Results: One of the key pieces of evidence in a DUI case is the result of the breath, blood, or urine test. Your attorney may challenge the accuracy of these test results by showing that the testing equipment was not properly calibrated, maintained, or operated, or that the sample was mishandled or contaminated. An attorney may also argue that the sample was not properly stored, which can affect the test results.
• Expert Testimony: An expert witness, such as a toxicologist, can be called to testify about the effects of medication or medical conditions on your ability to drive. For example, you have a medical condition that affects your balance. An expert witness may be able to provide testimony that the field sobriety tests were not an accurate indicator of your impairment.
• Witness Testimony: Witnesses who saw you before and after the incident, such as a bartender or restaurant server, may be able to provide testimony about your level of sobriety. For example, if a witness saw you drinking water or eating food, it may show that you were not under the influence of alcohol.
• Driving Pattern: Your attorney may argue that your driving pattern, such as staying within the speed limit and maintaining a consistent lane position, does not indicate that you were impaired. For example, you were pulled over for swerving. However, the video footage shows that you were driving in a straight line. This can be used as evidence to support your defense.
• Field Sobriety Test Results: Law enforcement officers often use field sobriety tests to determine if a driver is impaired. However, these tests are not always accurate. Your attorney may argue that the results of the field sobriety test are unreliable because they are not always accurate. For example, the officer did not properly administer the test, or the test was performed on an uneven or slippery surface. It can be argued that the test results need to be more accurate.

Each case is unique, and the best defense strategy will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. An experienced DUI attorney will be able to properly evaluate the evidence. They can then advise you on the best course of action.

Potential Penalties for a DUI Conviction in Fort Lauderdale

There are several potential penalties for a DUI conviction in Fort Lauderdale:

• Fines: First-time DUI offenses can result in fines of up to $1,000. However, fines can be much higher for repeat offenses or for cases with aggravating factors. These can include a high BAC level or causing an accident.
• Jail Time: A first-time DUI conviction can result in up to 6 months in jail, but repeat offenses or cases with aggravating factors can result in much longer jail sentences.
• Driver’s License Suspension: A first-time DUI conviction can result in a driver’s license suspension of up to a year. Repeat offenses or cases with aggravating factors can result in a much longer suspension or revocation of the driver’s license.
• Community Service: DUI convictions often come with a requirement to perform community service. This could involve working in a homeless shelter, volunteering with a local charity, or other types of community service. Community service intends to make amends for the offense, show that the offender has learned from their mistake, and make them feel connected to their community.
• DUI School: A DUI conviction may require the offender to attend a DUI school or substance abuse treatment program. This could involve attending classes, counseling sessions, or completing an online course. The purpose of DUI school is to educate the offender on the dangers of drinking and driving. It also gives them the tools to help them make the necessary changes in their lifestyle to avoid future DUI convictions.
• Probation: DUI convictions often come with a probationary period during which the offender must comply with certain conditions. These include regular check-ins with a probation officer, avoiding alcohol or drugs, and not committing any other crimes.
• Ignition Interlock Device: Some DUI convictions may require the offender to have an ignition interlock device (IID) installed in their vehicle. This prevents the car from starting if the driver has been drinking. This device must be installed in the vehicle for a set period of time and is monitored by law enforcement.
• Vehicle Impoundment: Repeat offenders or cases with aggravating factors may result in the impoundment of the offender’s vehicle. The vehicle will remain impounded until the offender pays the fines and fees associated with the DUI conviction.

With so many potential penalties for a DUI conviction in Fort Lauderdale, it demonstrates how varied the outcome of a DUI case can be. There are many ways to defend a DUI case, and an experienced attorney can help you understand your options. They can build the strongest defense possible to reduce or remove any potential penalties in your case.

FAQs About Fort Lauderdale, FL DUI Defense Law

How much does a DUI lawyer cost in Florida?

The cost of a DUI lawyer in Florida can vary depending on several factors, such as the attorney’s experience, the case’s complexity, and the case’s location. On average, the cost of a DUI lawyer in Florida can range from $1,500 to $5,000 for a first-time DUI offense. However, the cost of a DUI lawyer can vary widely. It is best to find an attorney that fits your budget and your needs.

Can you beat a DUI case in Florida?

It is possible to beat a DUI case in Florida. However, it is important to remember that each case is unique and the outcome can depend on the case’s specific circumstances. An experienced DUI attorney can evaluate the evidence against you and build a strong defense case. With the right defense strategy and proof, it is possible to reduce the charges or get the case dismissed.

Can a first-time DUI be dismissed in Florida?

A first-time DUI case can be dismissed in Florida, but it depends on the specific circumstances of the case and the strength of the prosecution’s evidence. An experienced DUI attorney will be able to evaluate the evidence and identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. They can also negotiate with the prosecution to reduce the charges or dismiss the case.

What is the best frame of mind when navigating a drunk driving charge?

It is to remain calm and level-headed when navigating a drunk driving charge. It is important to understand that a DUI charge is serious and can have serious consequences, but it is also not the end of everything. Take responsibility for your actions and seek the help of an experienced DUI attorney. Remain cooperative and respectful throughout the legal process. A positive attitude and a willingness to work with your attorney can increase your chances of a favorable outcome. Additionally, stay informed and educated about the legal process to understand your rights as a defendant.

How can a DUI conviction in Florida affect an individual’s employment and future job prospects?

A DUI conviction in Florida can seriously impact an individual’s employment and future job prospects. Employers may view a DUI conviction as a red flag and may be less likely to hire an individual with a DUI conviction. Additionally, certain jobs or professions may require individuals to have a clean driving record, such as truck or delivery drivers. A DUI conviction can also create other barriers to employment, such as having to deal with license suspensions and undergoing additional background checks. These considerations will vary from employer to employer. Working directly with Fort Lauderdale DUI attorneys can help to ensure that resolving a DUI charge will have as little impact on your future job prospects as possible.

Contact Prya Murad Law, PLLC, Today

If you are facing a DUI charge in Florida, contact Prya Murad Law, PLLC, to discuss your legal options. With years of experience defending DUI cases in Florida, our team can provide you with the legal representation and advice you need to seek a favorable outcome. Contact us today to learn more.