Is It Possible to Fight DUI Charges?

Is It Possible to Fight DUI Charges?

DUI, driving under the influence, is a serious offense and one that should not be taken lightly. There can be severe penalties for those found guilty of DUI. It is usually best to take the matter to court with the help of an experienced DUI attorney. Your lawyer will offer some options as to the best way to proceed in your particular case.

DUI Charges

DUI charges may often be accompanied by traffic charges. For example, you may have been stopped for a violation such as speeding or failure to signal a turn. Once stopped, the officer may ask that you take some basic field sobriety tests. Then, the officer may ask you to submit to a DUI test. The initial DUI test may be a breathalyzer. The breathalyzer analyzes the blood alcohol concentration by measuring the concentration in the breath. Breath tests are very often given at the scene of the traffic stop.

What is Implied Consent?

Florida has an implied consent law in place for all drivers. Drivers automatically consent to DUI testing when they accept their driver’s licenses. When a member of law enforcement requests that you take a breath, blood, or urine test for DUI, it is necessary to comply. In most cases, it is advisable to comply because refusal may bring about additional charges and an automatic suspension of your driver’s license. If stopped for a possible DUI consult with a DUI attorney before making any decisions.

BAC

The legal BAC, blood alcohol concentration, is 0.08%. If you have tested over the limit you will likely be charged with DUI. The best way to defend a DUI may depend, in part, upon the BAC level detected. It is possible to have your own BAC testing done. This could be an important option because the testing procedures or results could be faulty. By having your own testing completed you will be able to compare results and may have a possible defense. For this reason it is important to speak to a DUI attorney immediately.

Fighting DUI Charges

In some cases, it may be possible to reduce or eliminate some of the charges against you. If the evidence against you is insufficient it may be possible for your lawyer to work to have the DUI dropped or charges reduced. Your lawyer will discuss your case including all aspects of the traffic stop and subsequent arrest. It is helpful to contact a lawyer as quickly as possible after a DUI arrest to ensure the best possible outcome.