Florida DUI Myths Debunked
You went out with some friends after work and enjoyed a couple adult beverages. You thought you were okay to drive home, but you have found yourself pulled over and being told that the officer suspects you of driving under the influence. Your stomach sinks as the handcuffs are placed around your wrists and you are taken to the station.
There is no doubt that being arrested for DUI is frightening and stressful. It doesn’t mean, though, that the rest of your life is ruined or you do not have a right to fight your case. There are serious consequences that come along with a DUI charge, but there are also several myths and misconceptions. When you believe these myths, you may be more anxious than necessary. The situation you find yourself in may not be as hopeless as you have been led to believe.
Myth 1: I am going to be harshly punished.
It’s not unusual for people to believe that they are going to get the maximum sentence when they are charged with a DUI. In many cases, this is not true, especially when the person charged hires an experienced attorney. Typically, a prosecutor will be willing to enter into a plea bargain with the defendant, to avoid going to trial.
Myth 2: My blood alcohol content is all the evidence needed.
Even if you chose to take a chemical test, your score may not be all the evidence that is needed to convict you. Two people can have the exact same blood alcohol content and have different levels of impairment.
Myth 3: Because I submitted to testing, I cannot challenge the results.
There are many factors that affect the readings of a chemical test. Issues may arise with the maintenance of the machine, the time the person was tested, or even how the test was administered.
Myth 4: I have to go to trial to challenge my charges.
Less than 10 percent of DUI cases end up in front of a judge in Florida. Again, this is because experienced attorneys understand how to work with prosecutors and negotiate favorable outcomes before a trial is necessary.
Myth 5: Any criminal defense attorney will do.
This is simply not true. If you are charged with a DUI, you want a criminal defense attorney who specializes in these types of cases. Each type of criminal law has its own nuances, making finding an attorney experienced in defending DUI charges important. It is easy to find a lawyer — it takes a bit more time to find a lawyer who has the knowledge and experience you need to fight a DUI charge.
If you have been charged with DUI in Orlando or the surrounding area, you need an experienced attorney standing by your side as you work to defend your rights. Call our team today for a free case evaluation. We will review the details of your charges and arrest and help you make the best legal decisions for your unique situation. Call today or browse our website for more information about our firm and the types of cases we handle.