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What Happens on a DUI Stop?
Driving under the influence or DUI is one of the most common reasons for arrest in Florida and across the country. DUI is a serious charge and one that you must vigorously defend. The consequences for a DUI conviction are severe and may include suspension of your driver’s license, fines, and even a jail sentence. DUI laws and penalties have become much stricter in the last decade, making it a difficult situation to overcome. Most DUI charges begin with a routine traffic stop. Sometimes law enforcement may pull you over for a minor traffic infraction and then determine that you may be DUI. You may be facing several violations as well as a DUI charge. DUI charges are considered criminal in nature rather than traffic violations but will also have an impact on your ability to retain your driving privileges.
Field Sobriety Tests
A police officer will approach your vehicle and ask to see your driver’s license, registration, and insurance. If the officer suspects you may have been drinking, he may ask you to exit the vehicle and step to the side of the road to perform some field sobriety tests (FSTs). Some of the most common field sobriety tests include:
- Walking a straight line
- Standing on one leg
- Reciting the alphabet
- Touching your finger to your nose
The results of these types of tests are subjective, meaning that the officer uses his own perception to decide how well you perform. Field sobriety tests are usually not admissible in court; however, they are used to take further action. After taking a FST the officer may then choose to place you under arrest for suspicion of DUI. This is a preliminary status that allows testing for blood alcohol content.
DUI Testing
In Florida, the legal drinking limit is 0.08% blood alcohol content. Your BAC can be tested using one of several methods. A breathalyzer test is familiar to most people. This device measures your blood alcohol content (BAC) by blowing into it. While this is a very handy portable device, it may not be as accurate as other methods of testing. For this reason you may be asked to take a blood or urine test. This requires a sample to be provided and is completed at the police station. The sample is then sent in to a company that specializes in analyzing the results. This is an important step because a high reading can make a big difference in the potential penalties. In Florida, the implied consent law requires you to submit to DUI testing if requested to do so by law enforcement. Failing to submit to testing can and will result in additional charges which will automatically suspend your driver’s license. Additionally, the fact that you refused the test will be used against you in your DUI case in court.
Fighting DUI Charges
An experienced attorney is necessary to present a good DUI defense. There are many things that your lawyer will review in preparing your case. This starts with your initial traffic stop, taking FSTs, and how the DUI tests were administered. It’s best to get a DUI lawyer involved as soon as possible after your arrest. It is important to understand that there are two parts to a DUI which include the criminal case against you as well as your driving privileges. Your lawyer will be able to address both of these issues and take care of all your concerns in fighting your DUI case.
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
