Charged With A Crime? We're Ready To Fight.
First Steps for a DUI
When you are arrested for DUI, a legal process is set in motion. You need to understand what steps to take within that process and be prepared to quickly develop a strategic approach in responding to the charges brought against you. A Florida DUI lawyer at Katz & Phillips, P.A. can answer the following questions:
- What happens after a DUI in Florida?
- What are the first steps you need to take?
- How can you prepare to fight charges or reduce penalties?
What Happens After a DUI in Florida?
After an arrest for DUI in Florida:
- You will be arraigned on charges. You’ll be informed of the accusations against you, and have to enter a plea.
- You will face an automatic suspension of your driver’s license if you do not take action. This suspension is imposed even before criminal conviction, and is separate from criminal penalties. It will go into effect automatically if you do not take action.
You need to know exactly what to do at arraignment and how to keep your driver’s license. The smartest thing for most DUI defendants is to exercise their right to an attorney. Call a lawyer as soon as you can after you are taken into custody so you won’t make your situation worse. After that, you can begin fighting for your license and your future.
What are the First Steps You Need to Take?
After a DUI:
- Call a lawyer. Your attorney will guide you through the process of responding to charges.
- Request a hearing before the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). You have 10 days to request the hearing or you are going to lose the chance to argue against losing your license. Your license will be automatically suspended if you do not act within 10 days.
- Decide how to plead. Even if you are going to plead guilty, get a lawyer to try to negotiate a plea deal with the prosecutor.
When you request a hearing with the DHSMV, your case will be reviewed by an agency worker at your first hearing. A more formal proceeding will be scheduled, during which a decision will be made on whether or not you should lose your license.
How Can You Prepare to Fight the Charges or Reduce Penalties
Preparing to fight charges or deal with a DHSMV hearing is complicated. You need to be ready with legal arguments for why you should keep your license, why you should not be convicted, or why the charges should be dropped.
Katz & Phillips, P.A. has extensive experience helping defendants fight for their license and to avoid conviction. We understand the DHSMV agency process as well as the criminal process and we are ready to advocate for you. Give us a call today to schedule a consultation and learn more.
Decades of Trusted Service. Hundreds of Grateful Voices.
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“David Katz sets the standard by which all other defense attorney's must measure. He not only knows his craft and has the experience to back it up, he relishes forcing his opponents to follow the law towards the best outcome for his clients.”- Karate K.
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“Christine Vazquez took on our case with a 24hr commitment. She put everything on the line to hold the judicial system accountable.”- Phil W.
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“I can’t thank attorneys Christine Vazquez and David Katz enough for the incredible job they did on my DUI case.”- Gabriel H.
Why Hire Katz & Phillips?
Some important reasons to secure experienced representation include:
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Board-Certified* Attorneys
Our founding attorneys are two of three board-certified* DUI defense lawyers in the state.
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Former Prosecution Experience
As former prosecutors, we bring an invaluable perspective and skillset to every case.
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High Success Rate in Criminal Defense
With a 90%+ success rate, our proven track record of success speaks for itself.
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Decades of Experience
With more than 10,000 cases handled, our advocates are well versed in criminal law to help you navigate your case with care and efficiency.
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Always Responsive
Our team is available to take your call and address any questions or concerns you have.
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Financing Available
The last thing you need during a criminal case is financial stress. Our firm offers financing with no credit check required.
Meet Your Dedicated Defense Team
Led by two of Florida's Board-Certified* DUI Experts, Our attorneys bring together more than 50 years of success, defending clients across Florida against criminal and DUI charges.
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DUI Charges Reduced
The court deemed all other conditions satisfied so M.A. did not have to go on probation at all and walked out of courthouse with a fine and fees to pay, and the case behind her.
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Case Dismissed
J.A.R. had had a previous DUI conviction and was facing mandatory jail time if convicted of this offense. In reviewing the discovery provided by the state, our team found several issues with the police investigation, and realized that our clients’ rights had been violated.
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All Charges Dropped
In reviewing the evidence provided by the State our team realized that T.R.’s rights had been violated when she was immediately illegally arrested by the Trooper. Further, there were many other errors made by the Trooper which would result in the evidence gathered being suppressed.
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All Charges Dropped
In this case, our client, R.H., was out with friends. A family member who was angry with him tracked his location by tracking his cell phone, called the police, told them he was very drunk, and led the police right to his car. The officers stopped his car and eventually arrested him.
Our Case Results
Two of Florida’s only Board-Certified* DUI Defense experts fighting for you.
- DUI Charges Reduced
- Case Dismissed
- All Charges Dropped
- All Charges Dropped
