Pembroke Pines DUI Lawyer

Being charged with DUI in Pembroke Pines can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. You may be worried about losing your license, facing steep fines, or even spending time in jail. At Orlando Criminal Team, we understand the stress and uncertainty that comes with a DUI arrest, and we’re here to help you navigate every step of the process.

Our mission is to protect your rights, challenge the evidence against you, and work toward the best possible outcome for your case. Whether it’s your first offense or you’re facing more serious charges, our team is ready to provide the knowledgeable and aggressive defense you deserve.

What is a DUI in Pembroke Pines?

In Pembroke Pines, a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is defined under Florida law as operating a vehicle while your normal faculties are impaired by alcohol, drugs, or both. This can be proven by showing a BAC of 0.08% or higher, or by demonstrating through driving behavior and field sobriety tests that your ability to operate a vehicle is compromised, even if your BAC is below the legal limit.

DUI enforcement in this city is active and visible. The Pembroke Pines Police Department’s Traffic Unit regularly conducts targeted patrols and sobriety checkpoints along major corridors like Pembroke Road (SR 824) and near popular event areas. These operations are often part of larger, multi-agency campaigns, such as the Arrive Alive Campaign, in partnership with the Florida Highway Patrol and FDOT, focusing on high-traffic weekends and holidays.

A DUI arrest in Pembroke Pines is more than a traffic issue, it is a criminal charge with serious consequences for your license, finances, and future. From the moment you’re stopped, strict legal deadlines begin, such as the 10-day window to request a hearing with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to challenge your license suspension.

Working with an attorney who understands both Florida DUI laws and Pembroke Pines’ enforcement practices can give you a significant advantage in protecting your rights and exploring every possible defense.

Types of DUI Charges in Pembroke Pines

Each DUI case is unique. Factors such as the details of your arrest, your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), and any prior offenses can influence the type of charge filed and the penalties you may face. In Pembroke Pines, some of the most common DUI charges include:

• First-Time DUI: A first offense can still result in license suspension, fines, probation, and mandatory DUI school.
• High BAC DUI: If your BAC is 0.15% or higher, you could face enhanced penalties, including higher fines and longer license suspensions.
• Underage DUI: Florida’s zero-tolerance policy means drivers under 21 can be penalized for a BAC as low as 0.02%.
• DUI with Property Damage or Injury: Accidents involving injury or property damage can escalate the severity of charges and penalties.
• Felony DUI: Multiple DUI convictions or a DUI involving serious injury or death can lead to felony charges and potential prison time.

Knowing exactly what type of DUI charge you’re facing is the first step in building a strong defense. An experienced attorney can evaluate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and fight for a better outcome.

Tips to Remember After a DUI Arrest

A DUI arrest in Pembroke Pines can be stressful, but the steps you take immediately afterward can have a major impact on your case. Here are a few key things to keep in mind:

• Stay Calm and Respectful: Your demeanor matters. Arguing or becoming confrontational with law enforcement can make the situation worse.
• Know Your Rights: You are not required to answer incriminating questions without an attorney present. Politely state that you wish to remain silent until you have legal counsel.
• Act Quickly to Protect Your License: In Florida, you usually have just 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a hearing to challenge your license suspension. Missing this window can limit your options.
• Document the Details: Write down everything you remember about the stop, including times, locations, officer names, and anything unusual about the testing process.
• Seek Legal Help Immediately: The earlier you involve a DUI defense lawyer, the better your chances of identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and exploring alternatives to conviction.

Even a first-time DUI can carry long-term consequences, but timely action can help you protect your rights and future.

Factors That Can Affect My Case

DUI cases in Pembroke Pines can vary widely, and multiple elements may affect the final outcome. Knowing what these are can help you and your attorney build the strongest possible defense:

• Accuracy of Chemical Tests: Breathalyzer and blood test results can be challenged if the equipment wasn’t calibrated correctly or if testing procedures weren’t followed precisely.
• Legality of the Traffic Stop: If the officer lacked reasonable suspicion or probable cause to pull you over, the stop, and any evidence from it, could be thrown out.
• Field Sobriety Test Conditions: Uneven roads, poor lighting, bad weather, or physical limitations can impact performance and make results unreliable.
• Prior DUI History: Repeat offenses can lead to harsher penalties, mandatory jail time, and fewer opportunities for reduced charges.
• Aggravating Circumstances: High BAC readings, having minors in the vehicle, or being involved in an accident can increase the severity of penalties.

An experienced DUI defense attorney will know how to investigate these factors, uncover errors, and use them to negotiate a reduced charge or even seek dismissal.

Pembroke Pines DUI Laws and Penalties (First Offense)

DUI cases in Pembroke Pines are prosecuted under Florida Statutes Section 316.193, which sets clear standards and penalties for driving under the influence. These penalties apply whether the impairment is from alcohol, controlled substances, or a combination of both, and even a first offense can carry serious consequences.

If you are convicted of a first-time DUI in Pembroke Pines, you could face:

• Fines: Typically $500 to $1,000, with higher amounts if your BAC was 0.15% or more or if a minor was in the vehicle.
• License Suspension: A suspension of 180 days to 1 year, as regulated by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).
• Probation: Up to 12 months of probation, which may include 50 hours of community service.
• DUI School: Completion of a state-approved DUI education program is mandatory.
• Possible Jail Time: Up to 6 months in jail, or 9 months if aggravating factors are present.
• Vehicle Impoundment: Your vehicle may be impounded for 10 days as part of sentencing.

These penalties are not guaranteed to happen in every case because it depends on the circumstances, the evidence, and how your defense is presented. Florida courts allow you to challenge the charges, negotiate for reduced penalties, or seek alternative sentencing. Acting quickly after your arrest can give your attorney more options to protect your record, license, and freedom.

Why Choose a Pembroke Pines DUI Attorney

When facing DUI charges, the attorney you choose can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. At Orlando Criminal Team, we’re more than just legal representatives – we’re advocates who understand what’s at stake for you and your future.

As trusted Pembroke Pines criminal defense lawyers, we combine in-depth knowledge of Florida DUI laws with a strategic, personalized approach. Our team will help you:

• Thoroughly Review Your Case: From the initial stop to the testing process, we look for errors, rights violations, or weak evidence.
• Build a Tailored Defense: Every case is unique, so we create a defense strategy that addresses your specific circumstances.
• Protect Your Driving Privileges: We act quickly to preserve your right to drive and explore hardship license options.
• Negotiate Aggressively: We work to reduce charges, minimize penalties, or seek dismissal whenever possible.
• Stand by You in Court: From pre-trial motions to trial representation, we’ll be there to fight for your best interests.

With years of experience defending clients in Pembroke Pines and throughout Florida, we know how to navigate both local court procedures and state DUI laws to give you the strongest defense possible.

FAQs About a DUI in Pembroke Pines

Can I refuse a breath test in Florida?

Florida law allows you to refuse a breath test, but there are serious consequences. A refusal results in an immediate driver’s license suspension and may also be presented as evidence during your DUI case.

Will a DUI stay on my record permanently?

A DUI conviction in Florida stays on your record for 75 years and is not eligible for sealing or expungement.

How long do I have to challenge my license suspension?

You typically have 10 days from your arrest to request a hearing with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

Is a first-time DUI really that serious?

Yes. Even a first offense can result in license suspension, fines, probation, and possible jail time. It can also impact your employment and insurance rates.

Do I need a lawyer for a DUI if I plan to plead guilty?

Absolutely. A DUI attorney can often negotiate reduced penalties, explore alternatives to conviction, or identify defenses you may not have considered.

Don’t Face a DUI Alone

A DUI charge in Pembroke Pines can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it by yourself. The sooner you act, the more options you’ll have to protect your license, your record, and your future. At Orlando Criminal Team, we combine legal skill, local knowledge, and a commitment to personalized defense to give you the strongest representation possible.

If you’ve been arrested for DUI, take the first step toward protecting your future. Call us at (239) 332-0430 to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how we can help you fight your charges.