Common Mistakes to Avoid After a DUI Arrest in Florida
Anyone who’s been arrested for DUI in Florida knows how stressful and overwhelming it can be. In those first few hours or days, the decisions you make will have a major impact on your driver’s license, your criminal case, and, yes, even your future. Unfortunately, many folks make serious mistakes that can make their situation worse. In this article, the Orlando DUI attorneys at FL DUI Group will discuss some of the most common missteps and how to avoid them.
Talking too much to the police
One of the biggest mistakes that people make after a DUI arrest is giving away too much information. You have a right to remain silent! Use it! Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. Florida law enforcement officers are trained to gather statements that support a DUI conviction. You should politely provide your identification, but remember: you are not required to answer any questions about where you were, what you drank, or how much you drank. The best thing you can say after an arrest is, “I would like to speak to my attorney.”
Missing the 10-day DMV deadline
After a DUI arrest, the majority of folks don’t realize that there are actually two cases against them. The first is their criminal case. The second is the administrative case with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). You only have 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a formal review hearing to challenge your license suspension. If you miss that window, you can face months without a driver’s license and no ability to fight it. Acting quickly with the help of an experienced DUI attorney can protect your ability to drive to work, school, and more.
Assuming you have no defense
Another mistake is thinking, “I blew over the limit, so I’m guilty and there’s nothing I can do about it.” This isn’t true. DUI cases are highly technical, and a skilled DUI defense lawyer can often find problems with the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, or the breathalyzer machine. Equipment malfunctions, improper police procedure, and breathalyzer machines can all play a central role in whether the evidence is admissible. Pleading guilty too quickly can mean giving up all your defenses.
Failing to document what happened
As soon as possible after your arrest, you should write everything that you remember down somewhere. This includes what you ate that day, how much you had to drink, when you were pulled over, what the officer said, and how the tests were administered. These details can fade quickly, but they’ll make a big difference in how your case is defended. Without documentation, valuable evidence can be lost.
Talk to an Orlando DUI Attorney Today
FL DUI Group represents the interests of Orlando residents who are facing DUI charges. Call our Florida DUI defense lawyers today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin preparing your defense right away.
