When you get arrested for a DUI on the Fourth of July, it can be confusing and even scary. All it takes is a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher to get arrested. Sometimes, all it takes is one drink, depending on your metabolism, size, and the speed that you are drinking to get to the level of a DUI.
What is meant to be a festive holiday turns into a challenging time, and you may not be sure what to do and what is going to happen to you.
The first thing you need to understand is that it is advised not to deal with it on your own. You should contact a Clearwater DUI attorney as soon as possible. There are a variety and a range of penalties that can occur depending on the situation.
If it is the first time you have been arrested for a DUI, you could be charged with a misdemeanor. If over the Fourth of July you get arrested with your 2nd (or greater) DUI, or if someone gets injured or killed in an accident, more than likely, you will be charged with a felony.
Benefits of Contacting a DUI Attorney
A DUI conviction comes with severe penalties that can make a significant impact on your personal life, your finances, your career, and even your family. When you contact a DUI attorney, they will provide you with legal guidance that is extremely important for both your short-term and your long-term future.
A DUI attorney is also a criminal defense attorney who understands how to present your case and fight for your rights. It is optimal to work with someone who has worked on both sides of the law – prosecution and defense. The justice system in Florida is complex, and a lawyer with this kind of experience and perspective is very valuable.
If you are arrested for a DUI in Florida, these are the types of penalties that can occur, depending on if it is your 1st conviction or greater, or if anyone is injured:
- Jail time – up to 6 months or more
- Fines – up to $1,000 or more
- Losing your driver’s license – up to 6 months or more
- Ignition interlock
- DUI school
- Community service
- Impounded vehicle
The outcome of your case can widely vary depending on the details of the case and whether or not you have a DUI attorney representing you. When you have one in your corner to defend your rights, you are much more likely to have the best possible outcome after you have been arrested for a DUI.
The above penalties often have additional consequences. If you lose your driver’s license for a long time, this can make it extremely difficult to get to work (or anywhere else). Prolonged jail time can impact your life in many ways, including issues with getting another job, working in the field of your choice, and problems with personal relationships too.
The Next Steps
After you have been arrested for DUI on the Fourth of July, contact a criminal defense attorney right away. If you have not taken a breath test yet, the decision to go ahead with it should be made carefully. Even if you have taken the breath test and failed it, it does not mean your case is insurmountable. A good DUI attorney may be able to overcome it.
Also, it is best not to make any statements to the police, admit anything, or apologize for your actions. You have the right to not say anything to law enforcement officials.
Once you speak to a DUI attorney, you will be much better prepared to minimize the impact of getting arrested for a DUI.
Contact the Law Offices of Dean Tsourakis
Contact the law offices of Dean Tsourakis to stay out of jail and put your life back together after getting arrested for a DUI. Mr. Tsourakis has over 38 years of experience in criminal law in Florida and has tried hundreds of cases.
With a highly qualified and experienced Clearwater DUI attorney, you will have the confidence you need to move forward and get the best results from a difficult, potentially life-changing situation.
Call 727-785-2700 to set up a free consultation.
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Dean Tsourakis has received the highest possible rating in both legal ability and ethical standards. The AV Preeminent® Rating is the pinnacle of professional excellence earned through a strenuous Peer Review Rating process that evaluates lawyers in the United States and Canada.
on Jul 7, 2020