DUI
Compassionate Advocacy. Powerful Defense.
DUI Defense Attorney in Seminole County, Florida
Experienced DUI Defense Throughout Seminole County
Being charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in Seminole County can have immediate and long-lasting consequences on your life. Florida has some of the strictest DUI laws in the country, with penalties that can include license suspension, hefty fines, mandatory DUI school, probation, and even jail time.
Our dedicated DUI defense attorneys serve clients throughout Seminole County, including Sanford, Lake Mary, Longwood, Altamonte Springs, Oviedo, Winter Springs, and Casselberry. We have extensive experience with the local courts, law enforcement practices, and prosecutors, giving you a strategic advantage in your case.
Understanding DUI Charges in Florida
In Florida, you can be charged with DUI if:
- Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher
- Your normal faculties are impaired by alcohol or drugs (even with a BAC below 0.08%)
- You refuse to submit to a lawful breath, blood, or urine test after being arrested for suspected DUI
Enhanced DUI Charges
Certain circumstances can lead to enhanced DUI charges with more severe penalties:
- DUI with BAC of 0.15% or higher: Results in increased minimum penalties
- DUI with a minor in the vehicle: Additional charges and heightened penalties
- DUI causing property damage or injury: Elevated to more serious offense levels
- DUI manslaughter: A second-degree felony with potential prison sentences of up to 15 years
Multiple DUI Offenses
Florida’s penalties increase significantly for repeat offenders:
- Second DUI within 5 years: Mandatory 10 days in jail
- Third DUI within 10 years: Mandatory 30 days in jail
- Fourth or subsequent DUI: Considered a felony regardless of timeframe
Immediate Consequences of a DUI Arrest in Seminole County
From the moment you're arrested for DUI in Seminole County, you face several immediate challenges:
Administrative License Suspension
- First-time offenders face a 6-month suspension for a failed test (BAC above 0.08%)
- First-time refusals face a 1-year suspension
- Subsequent refusals result in an 18-month suspension and can be charged as a separate misdemeanor
You only have 10 days from your arrest to request a formal review hearing to contest your administrative license suspension. Don’t delay in contacting our office to protect your driving privileges.
Criminal Case Timeline
- Booked into the John E. Polk Correctional Facility in Sanford
- Released on bond after a first appearance hearing
- Required to appear for arraignment at the Seminole County Criminal Justice Center
- Facing multiple court dates as your case progresses
Our Strategic DUI Defense Approach
Our experienced DUI defense attorneys will thoroughly analyze every aspect of your case to build the strongest possible defense.
We Scrutinize
- Traffic Stop Legitimacy: Was there reasonable suspicion for the initial stop?
- Field Sobriety Testing: Were tests administered properly according to standardized protocols?
- Breath/Blood Testing: Was equipment properly calibrated and maintained? Were proper procedures followed?
- Miranda Rights: Were you properly advised of your rights?
- Officer Conduct: Was there any misconduct or procedural errors?
- Medical Conditions: Could medical issues have affected test results or physical performance?
Potential Defense Strategies
- Challenging the legality of the traffic stop or arrest
- Questioning the accuracy and reliability of breathalyzer results
- Disputing field sobriety test administration and interpretation
- Introducing alternative explanations for observed behaviors
- Negotiating for reduced charges or alternative sentencing
Alternatives to Traditional Prosecution
For eligible clients, we pursue alternatives that can minimize the impact of DUI charges
Why Choose Our Seminole County DUI Defense Team
Specific training in DUI defense strategies
A proven track record of successful DUI defenses
Experience with the Seminole County court system
Relationships with local prosecutors that facilitate negotiations
Knowledge of breathalyzer operation and scientific testing principles
Contact Our Seminole County DUI Defense Attorneys
A DUI arrest doesn’t have to define your future. The sooner you contact our experienced DUI defense team, the more options we’ll have to fight your charges and protect your rights.
Call our office today to schedule a confidential consultation where we’ll review the details of your case and explain your legal options.
Remember: You only have 10 days from the date of your arrest to request an administrative hearing to contest your license suspension. Don’t delay in seeking legal representation.
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Every case is unique and requires individual analysis by a qualified attorney.
Seminole County Criminal Court Information
The Seminole County criminal courts are located at:
Seminole County Criminal Justice Center
101 Eslinger Way
Sanford, FL 32773
Cases are typically heard before judges in the 18th Judicial Circuit Court of Florida, which covers both Seminole and Brevard counties.