St. Petersburg DUI Lawyer

St. Petersburg DUI Attorney

If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), a St. Petersburg DUI lawyer can help you understand your rights and legal options. Jeff Marshall Law represents clients throughout Pinellas County and the surrounding areas. Our firm can help identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, create a strong defense, and pursue the most favorable outcome possible.

DUI Laws in Florida

Florida defines DUIs as operating or being in actual physical control of a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. However, if law enforcement believes your normal faculties are impaired, they can pursue charges if your BAC is lower than the 0.08%.

St. Petersburg is a busy area, and DUI arrests aren’t uncommon on major roadways, such as US Highway 19 and I-275. Overall, Florida reported 5,746 DUI accidents in 2023. Impaired driving accounted for 32% of all traffic deaths in the United States in 2022, which is around 32 people per day.

DUI Penalties

DUI penalties can vary based on prior convictions, BAC levels, and if there were aggravating factors, such as injuries to others or if children were present in the vehicle. The seriousness of the crime can determine the degree of severity, but some possible penalties can include:

• Jail time
• Fines
• License suspension
• Ignition interlock device
• Probation
• DUI school
• Community service

A conviction could also lead to increased costs for your car insurance, and it may impact your reputation, career, and relationships. Certain professional licensures can also be impacted by an arrest on your record.

In serious cases, you may have your driver’s license revoked entirely, and you might receive a felony charge on your permanent record.

Because of these long-term and serious consequences, having a strong St. Petersburg DUI lawyer on your side is imperative.

Hire a DUI Lawyer at Jeff Marshall Law

A strong defense is the key to navigating DUI charges in Florida. Jeff Marshall Law provides a detailed review of your circumstances and works to argue against the prosecution’s case.

We begin by investigating the traffic stop’s legality. If law enforcement did not have a valid reason for the stop, any evidence gathered may be challenged.

The tests administered can also be challenged. Sometimes, what is perceived as a DUI is actually due to a medical condition, fatigue, or road conditions. Other times, the breathalyzer testing devices are not properly calibrated. Identifying these weaknesses can help reduce the charges and suppress evidence, which can cause the case to be dismissed in some instances.

Jeff Marshall Law has a firm understanding of Florida DUI laws and local court proceedings. We also have a strong working relationship with Pinellas County courts, judges, and prosecutors.

We give every case the attention it deserves, taking the time to understand your situation and needs. Clear communication is essential, and we’re here to answer any questions you have along the way.

The DUI Court Process in Pinellas County

If you’ve been arrested for a DUI in St. Petersburg, it can help you to know what you might expect during the legal process. Immediately after the arrest, you’ll go through booking. This process involves law enforcement collecting your personal information, taking photographs and fingerprints, and reviewing the alleged crime.

A first appearance hearing happens within the following days. At this time, a judge will inform you of your rights, formally read the charges, and set bail or release conditions. If you haven’t already, you will be advised to seek legal counsel.

Next, an arraignment hearing will be scheduled. This court appearance involves hearing the charges against you, and you’re asked to enter a plea, and then negotiations begin between the prosecution and defense.

If necessary, the case will move on to trial, where a judge will make a determination in your case. Many cases are resolved before going to trial, however.

FAQs

How Much Does a Lawyer Cost for a DUI in Florida?

The cost of hiring a DUI lawyer in St. Petersburg, Florida depends on the complexity of the case, if there is a criminal history, and if the case goes to trial. A first-time DUI without aggravating factors may resolve more quickly and come with fewer costs. However, if aggravating factors were present and there is a history of criminal activity, the case could require more of the attorney’s time.

Does Astigmatism Affect the DUI Test?

Astigmatism can affect certain field sobriety tests, like the horizontal gaze nystagmus test, which focuses on tracking eye movements. Fatigue and certain other medications can also affect these test results. If this test is administered, your St. Petersburg DUI lawyer may challenge the validity of the test by presenting medical evidence and questioning the officer about the test’s administration.

What Is the 10-Day Rule for DUI in Florida?

The 10-day rule for DUI in Florida refers to the timeframe after a DUI where you can request a hearing with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. This lets you challenge the administrative suspension of your driver’s license. Without requesting the hearing, you will have your license automatically suspended.

How Often Do DUI Cases Get Dismissed?

The chance of a DUI case being dismissed depends on the specific facts and evidence. Cases may be dismissed if there are issues, such as an unlawful traffic stop, unreliable breathalyzer results, or if the field sobriety tests weren’t administered properly. Strong representation can increase your chances of having the case dismissed, but every situation is unique.

Contact Jeff Marshall Law

A DUI case can move quickly through the legal system, and early intervention can make a big difference in how your case moves through the system. Jeff Marshall Law provides guidance from the very start.

We immediately begin collecting evidence, such as police reports, body cam footage, and interviews with potential witnesses. Our team can also advise you on how to handle communication with courts and law enforcement throughout the proceedings.

When you schedule your initial consultation, we can answer your questions and help you gain a clear understanding of what you can expect throughout the legal process. Reach out to us today and hire a DUI lawyer who can give you some peace of mind during a stressful time.

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