Altamonte Springs
DUI Lawyer
Experienced Auto Accident Attorney | Strategic Case Advocacy | Trusted Personal Injury Attorney
Despite stricter penalties for driving under the influence, drunk drivers continue to injure and kill.
Not only should an intoxicated driver be held liable for breaking the law, but other entities such as bartenders, restaurants, and liquor stores have the potential to be held liable.
At Sanchez & Brown, we know how to hold negligent drinking establishments and servers of alcohol liable under Florida state laws. We can recover damages for injured people or survivors of those killed in drunk driving accidents from both the drunk driver and those responsible for illegally over-serving the driver prior to an accident.
If a drunk driver has injured or killed someone you love, contact Sanchez & Brown today.
At no cost until we win.
Representing Clients
Across Central Florida
A DUI charge can carry serious and long-lasting consequences, impacting your employment opportunities, housing options, finances, and driving privileges. Whether it’s a first-time offense or a repeat charge, Florida law imposes strict penalties, including fines, license suspension, and potential jail time. In many cases, additional charges or complications may also arise depending on the circumstances of the arrest.
If you’ve been arrested for a DUI, the attorneys at Sanchez & Brown Law Firm are prepared to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome. Having experienced legal representation from the beginning can make a critical difference in building a strong defense. Call us today at (407) 676-4989 for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Florida DUI Laws & Penalties Explained
Under Florida law, you may be charged with driving under the influence if you are operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or if your normal faculties are impaired by alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription medications. Even if your BAC is below 0.08%, you can still be arrested if your ability to drive is affected.
Florida DUI laws impose strict penalties that increase with each offense. These penalties may include fines, jail time, probation, and driver’s license suspension, among others.
1. First Offense
Up to 6 months in jail, fines ranging from $500 to $1,000, and a driver’s license suspension of 6 to 12 months. Additional requirements may include probation, community service, and DUI school.
2. Second Offense
Up to 9 months in jail, fines ranging from $1,000 to $2,000, a driver’s license suspension of at least 5 years (if within 5 years of the first offense), and mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device. Additional penalties may include probation and community service.
3. Third and Subsequent Offenses
Up to 12 months in jail for a third-degree felony if within 10 years of a prior conviction, fines starting at $2,000, long-term or permanent driver’s license revocation, and mandatory ignition interlock device installation. More severe penalties may apply depending on the circumstances.
In addition, individuals convicted of DUI in Florida are required to complete DUI school and may be evaluated for substance abuse treatment. If your BAC is 0.15% or higher, or if a minor was in the vehicle, enhanced penalties may apply, including higher fines, longer jail time, and extended use of an ignition interlock device.
Because DUI charges can have serious and lasting consequences, understanding the law and your rights is essential when facing these allegations.
What to Expect After a DUI Arrest
Florida also has an implied consent law that requires drivers who are lawfully arrested for DUI to submit to a breath, blood, or urine test. If you refuse to comply and the State meets its burden, you may face immediate and mandatory penalties, regardless of whether you are ultimately convicted of DUI. These consequences may include:
1. Driver’s License Suspension
A refusal can result in an automatic license suspension, typically 1 year for a first refusal and 18 months for a second or subsequent refusal. This suspension is administrative and can take effect quickly, impacting your ability to drive to work, school, or meet daily responsibilities.
2. Additional Penalties and Consequences
Beyond the suspension, you may face additional fines and court-imposed penalties depending on the circumstances of your case. These penalties can add to the overall impact of the arrest and may increase the financial burden associated with defending your case.
3. Use of Refusal as Evidence
Your refusal to submit to testing may be used against you in court. Prosecutors can argue that the refusal suggests an attempt to avoid providing evidence of impairment, which can influence how your case is presented and perceived.
4. Mandatory Programs and Requirements
In some cases, you may be required to complete DUI school, substance abuse evaluations, or other court-ordered programs. These requirements can take time and add to the overall process of resolving your case.
In addition to these penalties, the DUI process begins immediately after your arrest. You may be taken into custody, booked, and required to address both administrative and criminal proceedings. Acting quickly is critical, as you have a limited time to challenge your license suspension and begin building your defense.
If you’ve been arrested for a DUI, the attorneys at Sanchez & Brown Law Firm are prepared to protect your rights and guide you through every step of the process. Call
(407) 676-4989 today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
How Sanchez & Brown Can Defend Your Case
A DUI charge is not a guaranteed conviction. The outcome often depends on how effectively the evidence is challenged and how early a defense strategy is built. At Sanchez & Brown Law Firm, we take a proactive approach by carefully reviewing every aspect of your arrest to identify weaknesses in the State’s case.
Our team examines whether the traffic stop was lawful, whether law enforcement had probable cause, and whether proper procedures were followed during field sobriety tests and chemical testing. Breath and blood test results are not always reliable, and we investigate potential errors in administration, calibration, or handling that could impact their accuracy. We also review body camera footage, police reports, and witness statements to ensure your rights were not violated at any point.
Beyond challenging the evidence, we focus on protecting your driving privileges and minimizing the long-term impact of a DUI charge. This may involve negotiating for reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or pursuing dismissal when appropriate. If your case cannot be resolved through negotiation, we are prepared to take it to court and advocate aggressively on your behalf.
From the initial consultation through the resolution of your case, our goal is to provide clear guidance, strong representation, and a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation—so you can move forward with confidence.
Speak with a DUI Attorney Today
If you’ve been arrested for a DUI, taking immediate action is critical. The decisions you make in the early stages of your case can have a lasting impact on your driving privileges, record, and future. Speaking with an experienced attorney right away allows you to understand your options, protect your rights, and begin building a strong defense from the start.
At Sanchez & Brown Law Firm, we are ready to guide you through every step of the process and fight for the best possible outcome in your case. Call (407) 676-4989 today to schedule a free consultation and get the answers you need.
Contact a Florida DUI
Lawyer Today
After a DUI, it’s important to seek guidance from an experienced attorney who can help you navigate your injuries and next steps. With the right legal support, you can move forward with filing a claim against the responsible party while protecting your rights and strengthening your case.
Are you ready to pursue justice for yourself or a loved one? Contact Sanchez & Brown Law Firm today by calling (407) 676-4989 to get started with a free consultation.
