Clearwater DUI Attorney
When You’ve Been Pulled Over in Pinellas County, Call Haworth Legal DUI Lawyer
Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is considered a very serious offense in Florida and across the U.S. In an effort to send a message, prosecutors come down hard on the accused. However, the zeal of both prosecutors and law enforcement may mean errors can be made that can undermine the validity of the charge.
At Haworth Legal, we know how to deconstruct DUI charges to help build a solid defense on your behalf. We can challenge the validity of the stop, the evidence against you, and the circumstances of your arrest, all of which can be contested by numerous nuanced issues.
When you’ve been pulled over, schedule a free initial consultation with our Clearwater DUI attorney. Call (727) 610-8114 or contact us online to get started.
What Constitutes a DUI in Florida?
In Florida, you can be charged with DUI under the following conditions:
- Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) measured .08 percent or higher. For drivers under 21, the legal limit is .02 percent.
- You were deemed by law enforcement to be under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs enough that normal faculties are affected regardless of BAC.
You can be charged with DUI in these situations even if you were not driving but were in physical control of the vehicle, such as sitting in your car with the keys in the ignition. This expands the scope of DUI laws to ensure that potential risks are mitigated even before the vehicle is in motion.
A DUI arrest will lead to two separate proceedings. One is the criminal case in which you will have to defend yourself in court against potential penalties such as fines, jail time, or community service, and more. The other is the administrative process with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) related to the automatic suspension of your license.
You will have just 10 days to request a hearing and 30 days to schedule a formal review to fight the automatic loss of your license or request a restricted license. If you fail to request the hearing, your license will be suspended.
What are the Penalties For a DUI Conviction in Florida?
On the criminal side, the penalties for a DUI conviction are harsh, even for a first offense. If you have prior convictions within the last 5 to 10 years, you can expect to face even stiffer penalties.
Penalties for a first offense can include:
- Fines ranging from $500 to $1,000
- Up to 6 months in jail or mandatory treatment
- 50 hours of community service or an hourly fee in lieu of service
- License suspension from 180 days to a year
- 10 days of vehicle impoundment
Why Choose Haworth Legal?
We’re dedicated to protecting your rights with a strategic, personalized approach
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Extensive Legal Experience
With years of experience handling thousands of cases, Michael Haworth applies detailed analysis and strategic planning to defend your case effectively.
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Personalized Representation
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Accessible Consultations
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Around-the-Clock Availability
Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Defense in Clearwater
What Should I Do Immediately After a DUI Arrest in Clearwater?
After a DUI arrest in Clearwater, your first step should be to exercise your right to remain silent and request legal representation. Avoid discussing details of the incident with law enforcement until your attorney is present. Contact Haworth Legal to obtain advice tailored to your specific situation. This immediate action protects your rights and allows your lawyer to start crafting a defense strategy promptly. You also have 10 days to request a hearing to prevent automatic license suspension, underscoring the importance of swift legal intervention.
How Are DUI Checks Conducted in Pinellas County?
In Pinellas County, DUI checkpoints are randomly conducted, especially during periods associated with increased drinking and driving. These checkpoints aim to deter impaired driving and are set up in locations where DUI incidents are frequently reported. During these checks, officers assess sobriety using standard field tests and breathalyzer equipment. Knowing your rights during these stops is vital, and our team can advise on compliance and what to do if you believe your rights were violated.
Can I Contest A Field Sobriety Test Result?
Yes, field sobriety test results can be contested if there were errors in administration or interpretation. Factors such as uneven surfaces, poor weather conditions, or medical impairments can affect test outcomes. Our lawyers scrutinize every aspect of test conditions to identify inconsistencies or mistakes. If procedural errors impacted your test, it could lead to evidence being challenged or dismissed, strengthening your defense.
What Are the Long-Term Consequences of a DUI Conviction?
A DUI conviction can carry long-term ramifications, including increased insurance premiums, employment challenges, and travel restrictions. Beyond immediate legal penalties, the stigma of a conviction can affect personal and professional relationships. Legal counsel from Haworth Legal focuses not only on immediate charges but also on mitigating future impacts by aiming for record expungements where applicable. Comprehensive defense planning addresses these potential consequences to help you preserve your future.
How Can Haworth Legal Assist with Fighting a DUI Charge?
Our approach begins with a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding your arrest, including officer conduct and evidence collection methods. We utilize our familiarity with local laws and our accessible 24/7 support to develop a strong defense. By systematically challenging weak points in the prosecution's case, we aim to reduce or eliminate charges where possible. Our strategy is tailored to each client, emphasizing future protection alongside immediate legal challenges.
Call us at (727) 610-8114 or request your free consultation online to learn more about how our Clearwater DUI attorney can help you. We are available 24/7 to help.
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"Very Professional"Choosing Mr. Haworth as my lawyer was the best decision I ever made. He was able to get my charges dropped clear my name and is still working for me on my family court process.- Jonathan D.
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"Calm and smooth, incredibly grateful."I am now completed with the program and done, moving forward with my life and it couldn’t have happened if it wasn’t for Michael.- Javi J.
