Florida DUI Checkpoints Lawyer

You’ve seen those notices on electronic freeway billboards. One may read, “Florida DUI checkpoints this weekend.” Or one could state, “Don’t drink and drive. Extra patrols during holiday weekend.” But how does a Florida DUI checkpoint work? It must be legal – right?

There is a fair amount of controversy regarding the legality of police sobriety checkpoints. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) has indicated that checkpoints keep drunk drivers off the streets. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is against checkpoints and has indicated that they are a violation of our civil rights. The U.S. Supreme Court has weighed in on the issue and ruled that checkpoints do not violate one’s civil rights.

So what is permitted? And will a DUI charge stick if its initiation point is a Florida DUI checkpoint? That is where a skilled criminal defense attorney can be critical. At Katz & Phillips, P.A., our attorneys are not only skilled criminal defense lawyers; we are accomplished DUI defense lawyers.

Role of a Florida DUI Checkpoints Attorney

Because the legality of a checkpoint is not black and white – but gray – a criminal defense team may be able to help you avoid a drunk driving conviction on your criminal record. Several of the attorneys at Katz & Phillips, P.A. have worked as prosecutors prior to becoming criminal defense lawyers. This means that our attorneys are aware of the tactics used by the prosecution – because they’ve used them.

Attorney David Katz gained significant experience during his years as the lead DUI prosecutor in Seminole County, Florida. Since partnering to form the law firm of Katz & Phillips, P.A., attorney Katz has become even more focused on DUI defense, including Florida DUI checkpoints defense. His credentials include:

• Training (from the manufacturer) on the Intoxilyzer 8000
• Featured speaker at national and local DUI conferences
• Board Certification as a DUI Defense Expert (National College of DUI Defense)

At our law firm, we are firmly grounded in DUI law, including that of arrests made at sobriety checkpoints.

The Importance of Immediate Legal Representation

Immediate legal representation is crucial following a DUI checkpoint stop. Time is a critical factor; early intervention by an experienced DUI defense lawyer can significantly influence the outcome of your case. A skilled attorney acts swiftly to scrutinize the details of your stop and arrest, ensuring that your rights were not violated and that the procedures at the checkpoint were lawfully conducted. This early analysis can uncover potential defenses, such as questioning the legality of the checkpoint or the accuracy of sobriety tests. 

In the initial stages, a lawyer can also guide you through the complex legal proceedings, helping you understand your rights and the charges against you. They can effectively communicate with law enforcement and prosecutors, often gaining access to critical evidence such as dashcam footage or officer reports. This information is vital for building a robust defense strategy.

Moreover, early legal counsel helps in preventing common mistakes that could adversely affect your case, such as making incriminating statements or missing crucial deadlines. Ultimately, securing a lawyer promptly after a DUI checkpoint stop enhances your chances of a favorable outcome, be it a reduced charge, acquittal, or a more lenient sentence.

Arrested at a DUI Checkpoint in Florida – What’s Next?

If you are reading this web page, chances are you’ve already stopped at a DUI checkpoint and may have been arrested under suspicion of drunk driving. You may or may not have been charged yet. There is no time to waste because a wrong move at this point could impact your defense.

One of our law firm’s skilled and experienced Florida DUI checkpoint attorneys can do the following for you:

• Examine the evidence: Was your breathalyzer properly calibrated? Is there a dashboard camera video and what does it show?
• Talk to witnesses: Who was in the car with you? Can they testify regarding police behavior?
• Follow the procedure trail: Did the police do everything “by the book?” Was every ‘I’ dotted and ‘T’ crossed?
• Explain the legal process and your rights to you: Were your rights violated? Do you understand the choices you are facing?
• Provide you with options: This may be the most important point. As you’ve just learned, the law surrounding DUI checkpoints is not as clear-cut as the prosecution would have you believe. We provide you with options, but the choice is always yours.

There may be room to maneuver. At Katz & Phillips, P.A., we will work toward the best possible outcome for you and keep you informed every step of the way.

Contact Our Florida DUI Checkpoint Law Firm For an Aggressive Defense

Our commitment to providing exceptional legal support is reflected in our 24/7 availability. We understand that DUI checkpoint incidents can happen at any time, and the need for immediate legal advice can arise outside of regular business hours. 

By calling Katz & Phillips, P.A., you can schedule a free consultation with our experienced DUI checkpoint lawyers. During this consultation, we’ll provide a preliminary assessment of your case, offering insight into your legal options and the potential strategies we can employ. We believe in making informed decisions, and this consultation serves as an opportunity for you to understand the legal process ahead and how we can assist you in navigating it.

Our team is dedicated to offering personalized attention to each case, starting from the very first call. We prioritize clear communication and are ready to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide the necessary guidance to help you through this challenging time. Your defense starts with this call, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us and take the first step toward securing your legal representation.