Fort Lauderdale DWI Lawyer
Fort Lauderdale DWI Lawyer Near Me
Expert DWI Defense by Mayersohn Law
Facing a Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) charge in Fort Lauderdale can be overwhelming, with potentially severe consequences. If you or a loved one has been charged with DWI, it’s important to seek experienced legal representation immediately. At Mayersohn Law, our trusted DWI Laywers specialize in defending individuals against DWI charges, providing expert legal guidance and aggressive defense strategies to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.Understanding DWI Charges in Florida
In Florida, a DWI charge, commonly referred to as DUI (Driving Under the Influence), is defined under Florida Statute 316.193. A person can be charged with DUI if they are found operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or if their normal faculties are impaired by alcohol or drugs. The penalties for DWI/DUI can be severe and may include:- Fines: Ranging from $500 to $2,000 or more, depending on the circumstances and prior offenses.
- License Suspension: From six months to several years, based on the severity and number of offenses.
- Jail Time: From a few days to several months or even years for repeat offenders.
- Community Service: Mandatory community service hours.
- Probation: Supervised probation with strict conditions.
- Ignition Interlock Device: Installation of a device that prevents the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on the driver’s breath.
Florida DWI Laws and Statutes
Florida Statute 316.193
This statute outlines the definition and penalties for DUI offenses in Florida. Key points include:- A BAC of 0.08% or higher constitutes a DUI.
- Enhanced penalties for BAC levels of 0.15% or higher or if a minor is in the vehicle.
- DUI penalties increase with multiple offenses, including longer license suspensions, higher fines, and longer jail sentences.
Implied Consent Law (Florida Statute 316.1932)
Florida’s implied consent law requires drivers to submit to chemical testing (breath, blood, or urine) if lawfully arrested for DUI. Refusal to submit to testing can result in an automatic license suspension and other penalties.Our DWI Defense Services
Comprehensive Case Evaluation
At Mayersohn Law, we begin by conducting a thorough evaluation of your case. This includes reviewing the police report, analyzing the evidence, and identifying any procedural errors or violations of your rights.Aggressive Defense Strategies
Our experienced DWI defense attorneys develop tailored defense strategies to challenge the prosecution’s case. This may include:- Challenging the Traffic Stop: Evaluating the legality of the initial traffic stop and whether the officer had probable cause.
- Questioning Field Sobriety Tests: Examining the administration and accuracy of field sobriety tests conducted at the scene.
- Disputing BAC Results: Investigating the procedures and calibration of breathalyzers and blood tests to ensure accurate results.
- Examining Officer Conduct: Scrutinizing the conduct of the arresting officer for any signs of misconduct or rights violations.
Negotiation and Plea Bargaining
When appropriate, we negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or secure a plea bargain that minimizes the impact on your life. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for your case, whether that means reduced penalties or alternative sentencing options.Court Representation
If your case goes to trial, our skilled litigators provide aggressive representation in court. We present a compelling defense, cross-examine witnesses, and challenge the prosecution’s evidence to protect your rights and achieve a favorable verdict. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What should I do if I am arrested for DWI in Fort Lauderdale? | Contact an experienced DWI lawyer immediately. Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney and exercise your right to remain silent. |
| Can I refuse a breathalyzer test? | Under Florida’s implied consent law, refusing a breathalyzer test can result in an automatic license suspension and other penalties. Consult with your attorney for specific advice based on your situation. |
| What are the penalties for a first-time DWI offense in Florida? | Penalties for a first-time DWI offense can include fines, license suspension, community service, probation, and potentially jail time. The severity of penalties depends on the specifics of the case. |
| How can a DWI lawyer help me? | A DWI lawyer can challenge the evidence against you, negotiate with prosecutors, represent you in court, and work to minimize the impact of the charges on your life. |
| What should I bring to my initial consultation with a DWI lawyer? | Bring any documents related to your arrest, including the police report, any test results, court documents, and any other relevant information. This will help your lawyer evaluate your case effectively. |
Local Resources
| Resource | Description | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|
| Fort Lauderdale Police Department | Law enforcement agency handling DWI arrests and related incidents. | Phone: 911 (Emergency) Non-Emergency: (954) 828-5700 |
| Broward County Clerk of Courts | Filing of legal documents and access to court records. | Address: 201 SE 6th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Phone: (954) 831-6565 Website: www.browardclerk.org |
| Mayersohn Law | Expert legal assistance for DWI charges and defense. | Address: 101 N.E. Third Avenue, Suite 1250, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Phone: 954-765-1900 Fax: 954-827-8118 Website: www.mayersohnlaw.com |
| Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) | Driver’s license issues, including suspensions and reinstatements. | Phone: (850) 617-2000 Website: www.flhsmv.gov |
| Florida Legal Aid | Provides free legal assistance to low-income individuals facing criminal charges. | Phone: (888) 582-3410 Website: www.floridalegalaid.org |
Why Choose Mayersohn Law?
- Experienced Attorneys: Our legal team has extensive experience handling DWI cases in Fort Lauderdale and throughout Florida.
- Personalized Service: We provide individualized attention to each client, ensuring your unique circumstances are considered in developing your defense strategy.
- Proven Track Record: We have a history of successfully defending clients against DWI charges, securing favorable outcomes through negotiation and litigation.
- Comprehensive Support: From the moment you contact us, we offer comprehensive legal support, guiding you through every step of the legal process.
