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Should I Admit to Drinking If Stopped for DUI?
There are thousands of traffic stops each year in the Orlando area for DUI. Often a vehicle will be stopped for another type of traffic offense first. After being stopped, the police officer may determine that the driver has been drinking. The consequences for a DUI conviction are very serious so it’s important to do your best to handle the situation in the best way possible. The penalties for DUI conviction may include fines, suspension of your driver’s license, points on your license, increased car insurance rates, and even jail time. Remember that you aren’t guilty unless the judge finds you guilty once the matter goes to court. If a police officer stops you and thinks you may have been drinking several things may occur.
DUI Traffic Stop
The first thing that may happen after being stopped is the officer will ask to look at your driver’s license. If he already suspects DUI he may ask you several questions to determine whether you are driving while impaired. He may ask if you’ve been drinking. This can be a difficult question to answer because no matter what you say it can get you into trouble. It’s usually best to avoid this question altogether and allow the police officer to make his own determination based on your actions. If the officer thinks you may have been drinking he will ask you to exit the car and take some simple field sobriety tests. These may include some simple actions such as walking a straight line, reciting the alphabet, and standing on one leg.
DUI Tests
Field sobriety tests are subjective so they aren’t considered valid to determine DUI. If the officer feels, based on observation and field sobriety tests, that you are DUI he may put you under arrest. There are several types of DUI tests that may be performed to calculate actual blood alcohol content levels. The legal BAC in Florida is 0.08%. A breathalyzer test is frequently used to measure BAC. Other methods of measurement include blood or urine testing. Many people wonder if they should agree to submit to these tests. Florida has an implied consent law. By obtaining your driver’s license you are agreeing to submit to these tests if asked to do so by a member of law enforcement. Failing to submit to testing will result in additional charges and an automatic suspension of your driver’s license.
Fighting DUI Charges
If you’ve been charged with DUI it is best to seek assistance from an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible. Your lawyer will be able to represent you at your first hearing (arraignment) where the charges will be officially made. Sometimes the evidence against you is weak and if so your lawyer will work to get the charges dropped. If you’ve been held in jail your lawyer will try to have your bail reduced or eliminated. Once your case goes to court your attorney will present your defense and if found guilty will try to get the least possible penalties. The sooner you involve an attorney the better your chances will be of a successful outcome. Every case is different, but an attorney with knowledge about handling DUI cases will be able to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. e
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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
