Sarasota DUI Lawyer

Experienced Defense Against DUI Charges in Sarasota County

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Florida is a serious offense, and DUI laws can be complex. After a decade in practice, I understand how devastating the consequences of a conviction can be. By working with Lail Law Firm, PLLC, you will have an experienced Sarasota DUI attorney on your side who can help you protect your rights. Your freedom and driving privileges could be on the line. Don’t wait to contact me and get started on your free consultation.

Have you been arrested for a DUI? Call Lail Law Firm, PLLC, today at (941) 909-2533 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our DUI attorney in Sarasota!

Florida DUI Laws

In Florida, driving under the influence is commonly defined as operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or a mixture of the two. Florida has very strict DUI laws that inflict severe penalties on those who violate them. Drivers in Florida are considered legally impaired if their BAC is 0.08% or higher. By driving on Florida roads, drivers automatically give implied consent to submit to a blood, breath, or urine test if they are questioned about driving under the influence. Refusal to take the test may result in an automatic license suspension.

Understanding Your Rights After a DUI Arrest

Being arrested for a DUI can be a daunting experience, and it's crucial to understand your rights during this challenging time. At Lail Law Firm, PLLC, we believe that knowledge is power, and we want to empower you with the information you need to navigate the legal process effectively.

Here are some key rights you should be aware of:

• Right to Remain Silent: You have the right to remain silent and not answer questions that may incriminate you.
• Right to Legal Representation: You have the right to consult with an attorney before answering questions or making statements to law enforcement.
• Right to Refuse Field Sobriety Tests: You are not legally obligated to perform field sobriety tests, which can be subjective and may not reflect your true level of impairment.
• Right to Challenge Evidence: You have the right to challenge the evidence against you, including the results of breathalyzer tests and other chemical tests.

Understanding these rights can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Our experienced DUI defense attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the best possible defense.

What are the Penalties For a DUI in Florida?

In the state of Florida, driving under the influence is a serious criminal offense that can lead to severe consequences. The penalties for a DUI conviction will vary depending based on the specific circumstances of the case, which include the driver's blood alcohol content (BAC) if they have any prior DUI convictions and if any injuries or property damage was caused by the DUI incident. 

Here are the potential penalties for a first-time DUI conviction in Florida:

• Fines
• License suspension
• Jail time
• Community service
• Probation
• DUI school

Strategic Defenses Against DUI Charges

Being arrested for DUI is embarrassing and devastating. Once charges are brought against you, the clock starts ticking for you to build a defense and tell your side of the story. At Lail Law Firm, PLLC, I know how to challenge the evidence and ensure you are not being unfairly targeted. Your charge may actually just be reckless driving and should not result in the same harsh penalties as a DUI.

Understanding the DUI Process in Sarasota

Navigating the legal landscape after a DUI charge can be daunting. At Lail Law Firm, PLLC, we believe that knowledge is power. Understanding the DUI process in Sarasota can help alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty you may be feeling. Here's a brief overview of what to expect:

• Arrest and Booking: After a DUI arrest, you will be taken to a police station for booking, where your personal information will be recorded, and you may be required to take a breathalyzer test.
• Initial Court Appearance: Within a few days of your arrest, you will have your first court appearance, known as an arraignment, where you will be formally charged and can enter a plea.
• Pre-Trial Hearings: Depending on your case, there may be several pre-trial hearings where evidence will be discussed, and motions may be filed to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
• Trial: If your case goes to trial, our experienced attorneys will represent you, presenting a strong defense to challenge the prosecution's case.
• Sentencing: If found guilty, sentencing will occur, which can include fines, community service, probation, or even jail time.

Our team is dedicated to providing you with clear guidance at every step of the process. We can help you understand your rights, explore your options, and work towards the best possible outcome for your case.