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Arrested for DUI in Jacksonville? Why You Need an Experienced DUI Lawyer

March 21, 2024 Uncategorized

 

Arrested for DUI in Jacksonville? Why You Need an Experienced DUI Lawyer

Getting arrested for DUI can be a scary and overwhelming experience. There are so many questions running through your head — How will this affect my job? My family? What’s going to happen to my driver’s license? Will I go to jail? What kind of penalties am I facing here?

Take a deep breath. I know this is a lot to take in. But working with an experienced DUI defense attorney can make all the difference in how your case turns out. A knowledgeable lawyer will walk you through the process, protect your rights, and build the strongest defense to get your charges reduced or dismissed.

Keep reading to learn why it’s so important to have an experienced DUI lawyer on your side if you’ve been arrested for drunk driving in Jacksonville.

They Understand Florida’s Complex DUI Laws

Florida has some of the toughest DUI laws in the country. The legal limit is .08 BAC, but you can be arrested and convicted for DUI even if your BAC is below that. There are also enhanced penalties for repeat DUIs, DUIs with a minor in the car, and DUIs causing injury or death.

An experienced Jacksonville DUI defense attorney understands all the nuances of Florida’s DUI laws. They stay up-to-date on any changes and know how to apply the law to the facts of your case to build the strongest defense.

They Can Get Your License Back

After a DUI arrest in Florida, your license will be automatically suspended for at least 30 days. For a first offense, it’s suspended for 6 months if you took the breath test and refused. The suspension period gets longer for repeat offenses.

Your lawyer can fight the administrative license suspension by requesting a formal review hearing within 10 days of your arrest. This gives you a chance to contest the suspension and potentially get your license reinstated. An experienced DUI attorney knows what arguments to make at the hearing to get the suspension invalidated or shortened.

They Understand the Local Courts and Prosecutors

Each courthouse handles DUI cases a bit differently. An experienced local DUI lawyer knows which prosecutors and judges you might get assigned to. They understand how these prosecutors typically negotiate cases and what arguments are most persuasive to the judges.

This insider knowledge helps your attorney better predict potential outcomes and craft an effective defense strategy for your specific courthouse and judge.

They Can Get Your Charges Reduced or Dismissed

In many DUI cases, there are opportunities to get the charges reduced or dismissed entirely. For example, if there were issues with your traffic stop or breath test procedures, an experienced lawyer can file motions to suppress evidence and get charges dropped before trial.

An attorney may also be able to negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the DUI to a lesser offense like reckless driving. This carries less severe penalties and avoids having a DUI conviction on your record.

They Can Help Minimize Your Penalties

If you end up convicted of DUI, an experienced attorney’s advocacy can help reduce the penalties. They may argue for no jail time, minimal probation, reduced fines and fees, reinstatement of your license, and other favorable terms.

They can also advise you on steps to take before sentencing, like entering alcohol education programs, that can persuade the judge to go easier on you.

They Defend Your Rights

When you’re facing DUI charges, it’s critical to have an advocate protecting your legal rights. An experienced DUI defense lawyer ensures police and prosecutors follow proper procedures. If your rights are violated at any point, your attorney can seek to have evidence suppressed or charges dismissed.

Without a lawyer, you may not even realize when your rights have been infringed. A violation could negatively impact your case if an attorney isn’t there to catch it and take appropriate action.

They Reduce Your Stress

The uncertainty of facing DUI charges takes an emotional toll. You don’t have to go through it alone. An experienced DUI attorney handles every aspect of your defense, so you can focus on your work, family, and well-being.

Your lawyer will answer all your questions, explain what to expect, and ease your worries about the process. Their confidence and expertise brings reassurance during an extremely stressful time.

How an Experienced DUI Lawyer Defends Your Case

So what exactly does a DUI defense attorney do to build the strongest case for a dismissal or acquittal? Here are some of the key steps an experienced lawyer takes:

  • Reviews the arrest report and evidence for any potential defenses
  • Files motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence
  • Contests the administrative license suspension
  • Negotiates with the prosecutor for reduced charges or a plea deal
  • Advises you on whether to take a breath or blood test
  • Hires investigators to re-examine the evidence and interview witnesses
  • Hires expert witnesses to challenge the breath or blood test results
  • Educates you on your rights and the legal process
  • Represents you in court hearings and at trial
  • Argues for the least severe penalties if convicted

Choosing the Right DUI Lawyer in Jacksonville

All attorneys are not created equal when it comes to DUI defense. It’s important to do your research to find the best lawyer for your particular case.

Here are some tips for choosing a DUI attorney in Jacksonville:

  • Find someone who specializes in DUI defense, not a general practice lawyer
  • Make sure they have substantial experience handling DUI cases specifically in Jacksonville and the surrounding counties
  • Ask about their track record getting DUI cases dismissed before trial
  • Find out if they stay up-to-date on the latest DUI defense tactics, technology, and resources
  • Choose a lawyer you feel comfortable with and who takes time to answer all your questions
  • Discuss legal fees upfront and understand the expected costs
  • Look for client testimonials and online reviews

Trusted Jacksonville DUI Defense Attorney

If you or someone you care about has been arrested for DUI in the Jacksonville area, I can help. My name is Bill Roelke and I’ve been successfully defending DUI cases in Jacksonville for over 20 years. I’m known for my aggressive defense strategies and track record of favorable outcomes for my clients.

I understand how devastating a DUI charge can be. That’s why I’m dedicated to protecting my clients’ futures. My entire practice focuses on DUI defense. I stay on top of constantly evolving DUI laws and defense tactics so I can build the strongest case on your behalf.

I will walk you through every step of the process, answer all your questions, and fight relentlessly to achieve the best possible result in your case. Don’t leave your fate in the hands of an inexperienced lawyer or public defender.

Contact my office today for a free consultation. Let’s get started building your defense for the most favorable outcome in your DUI case.

Sources:

[1] https://www.jacksonvilledefense.com/jacksonville-dui-lawyer/

[2] https://www.jaxcrimdefense.com/jacksonville-dui-lawyer/

[3] https://www.jaxcriminaldefenseattorney.com/criminal-defense-lawyer/dui/first-offense/

[4] https://jamesdavisdefense.com/dui-lawyer/

[5] https://www.cobbinlegal.com/dui-charges.html

[6] https://www.roelkelaw.com/dui-defense.html

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