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Critical DUI Information Provided By Criminal Defense Attorneys in Tampa: What to Know and What to Expect

Many Tampa residents are stopped and arrested for drunk driving (driving under the influence) of alcohol or drugs. The consequences can be confusing for those involved, particularly if they’re unaware of their rights. If you or a friend has been arrested for driving under the influence, a criminal defense attorney in Tampa can fight to help you keep your driver’s license, avoid hefty fines, and stay out of jail. Your criminal defense lawyer in Tampa will work aggressively to protect your rights and freedom after a DUI arrest.

Critical DUI Information: What to Know and What to Expect

Review the following information carefully, as it may assist you in the unfortunate event of a DUI investigation or arrest. It’s critical to contact a criminal defense attorney in Tampa to help you achieve the best possible outcome following an arrest for DUI.

In most cases, individuals are initially stopped by a Tampa law enforcement officer because the officer has reasonable suspicion or probable cause to stop a vehicle. He or she may notice you ignoring traffic signals, weaving in and out of lanes, speeding, or driving too slowly—any or a combination of these actions may prompt Tampa law enforcement to pull you over. A criminal defense attorney in Tampa can refute the officer’s reasoning and look for ways to reduce penalties or dismiss your charges.

After stopping your vehicle, a Tampa law enforcement officer may request that you perform Field Sobriety Exercises, also known as FSE’s—these are voluntary. Should the Tampa officer lead you to believe these are mandatory or you must perform them, the results may not be valid or used in court. The Tampa police officer may also look for classic signs of intoxication and DUI, including bloodshot/glassy eyes, the odor of alcohol, slurred speech, and difficulty following directions. Criminal defense lawyers in Tampa know that FSE’s are extremely unreliable and sometimes inaccurate, therefore your criminal defense lawyer can refute these and aggressively defend your case. Should the law enforcement officer not administer the exercises correctly, the reliability of these exercises is compromised.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest:

The officer arresting you will confiscate your license and issue a DUI citation.

This citation services as a license for up to 10 calendar days.

Within the 10 days, it’s recommended that you file for an Administrative Formal Review Hearing; failure to do so will forfeit your right to challenge the civil suspension of your license.

After filing for your Hearing, you’ll receive a “hardship” license that’ll allow you to get to work/school until the hearing.

During this time period, your criminal defense attorney in Tampa can help you complete all necessary forms and assist you with every step of the process. Your criminal defense attorney will also handle the details of the two suspensions that may attach to your license after your DUI arrest. (Civil and criminal suspension) Should you are a loved one be arrested for DUI, it’s important to retain the services of an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Tampa to defend you in court against the harsh penalties of a DUI.

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