Client Blows .082 And .083, and Fails Field Sobriety Tests

The Charges

Our client was observed driving an Oldsmobile with a piece of tape that covered the last letter on his license plate. An officer conducted a traffic stop, where the piece of tape was removed giving the officer the ability to run the plates. When the plates were ran, the plate numbers came back for a Toyota Sedan. When the officer approached the vehicle he reported a strong odor of alcohol emitting from the vehicle and the facial area of the driver. When asked if our client had consumed alcohol, he responded that “he had a few beers earlier.” The officer asked the driver if he would step out of the vehicle and if he would perform field sobriety exercises. Our client agreed and performed unsatisfactorily. Based on the officer’s contact with our client and his performance on the exercises, he was arrested and charged with DUI.

DUI Charges in Florida

A DUI charge, otherwise known as driving under the influence, is a serious crime that can cause havoc in your life. Not only will the charge remain on your record, but future employers have the right to turn down your application if you have a DUI charge. 

DUIs are generally charged as a misdemeanor, unless there are other circumstances that make them felonies, such as a DUI with bodily injury or having several DUI charges. 

There are also different penalties depending on the circumstances of the DUI. Twelve months of probation is a mandatory sentence in which the offender will report to a probation officer monthly. Your car will also be impounded for 10 days for a first offense, and your driver’s license will be suspended. The length of suspension depends upon what you have blown on the breathalyzer. If you blow .08 or higher, you will lose your license for 6 to 12 months if it is your first offense. 

You will also be required to attend DUI schooling. This schooling will teach you the impact that alcohol has when one is driving. It will also teach you how to be more responsible. 

Community service is also required for a first DUI offense. You will need to perform at least 50 hours. In some cases, a judge may allow hours not completed to be paid at a rate of $10/hr to the community in order to complete this requirement. 

Hiring Musca Law Firm

If you have been charged with a DUI, know that you are not alone. We at Musca Law want to help you by fighting for your rights. We have many defenses that we have used successfully and our lawyers will combine their skills to develop a defense that is unique for your case. We offer a free consultation, and our law firm can be reached 24 hours a day.