Facing a DUI charge in Crestview can be overwhelming, but having a skilled Crestview DUI lawyer on your side can make all the difference. A DUI conviction can lead to harsh penalties, including fines, license suspension, or even jail time. At Browning Law Firm, we understand the stress that comes with these charges and are committed to defending your rights.
The attorney will research from the moment the police stopped you, the traffic stop circumstance, the results of Field Sobriety Tests and Breath Tests.
By working with a Crestview DUI attorney, you may have a chance to reduce charges and penalties and avoid incarceration.
Why You Need to Choose the Right Crestview DUI Lawyer
The outcome of your DUI case heavily depends on the lawyer you choose. An experienced Crestview DUI lawyer knows the local laws, court procedures, and how to challenge DUI charges effectively.
Choosing the right lawyer means gaining a partner who will fight for reduced charges, alternative penalties, or even a case dismissal.
DUI Charges in Crestview
- Unclassified misdemeanor
| Maximum jail sentence | Maximum fine | |
| First DUI with BAC of .08 or more | 6 months | $1,000 |
| First DUI with minor Under 18 as Passenger in the Vehicle | 9 months | $2,000 |
| First DUI with BAC of .15 or more | 9 months | $2,000 |
| Second DUI with BAC of .08 or more | 9 months | $2,000 |
| Third DUI More than 10 Years After Prior DUI | 12 months | $1,000 |
| DUI Involving Property Damage | 12 months | $1,000 |
| Second DUI with BAC of .15 or more | 12 months | $4,000 |
- Third-degree felony
| Maximum jail sentence | Maximum fine | |
| Third DUI Within 10 Years of Prior DUI | 5 years | $5,000 |
| Fourth DUI | 5 years | $5,000 |
| DUI Involving Bodily Injury | 5 years | $5,000 |
- Second-degree felony
| Maximum jail sentence | Maximum fine | |
| DUI Manslaughter (Death of Another Person or Unborn Child) | 15 years | $10,000 |
- First-degree felony
| Maximum jail sentence | Maximum fine | |
| DUI Manslaughter with Failure to Render Aid | 30 years | $10,000 |
Other Consequences for DUI Conviction in Crestview
DUI cases often result in negotiated settlements, avoiding incarceration and the criminal record stigma. Those found guilty may face:
- Probation
- Mandatory Counseling for Substance Abuse and Mental Health;
- Mandatory Educational Courses;
- Mandatory Community Service;
- Temporary or Permanent Suspension/Revocation of a Florida Driver's License;
- For BAC over .15, Mandatory Installation of Ignition Interlock Device on Vehicle(s) Driven by the Accused Individual;
- Mandatory Impoundment of Vehicle Involved in a DUI Matter
- A Tarnished Criminal Record
Important Notes About Crestview DUI Cases
DMV 10-day Rule
After a DUI arrest, you have 10 days to ask the Bureau of Administrative Review for a hearing, or you may risk having your license suspended. Based on the findings of the breath test, the suspension is six months for a 0.08 or above and twelve months for a refusal. You have 10 days to obtain a temporary driver's permit, but you will be unable to drive for 30 to 90 days if the suspension is sustained.
Field Sobriety Tests
The police might not say so directly, but by requesting Field Sobriety Tests, they may assume you have committed a DUI. The hidden thing is that these tests are not compulsory. And you have a chance to refuse it, though the police may make it look like you can't.
DUI With a Breath Test
It's usually harder to win a DUI case with a breath test. But, it still can be possible if you work with a professional Crestview DUI attorney.
DUI with Refusal
DUIs with scientific proof of impairment, such as blood, urine, or breath testing, are preferred by state attorneys. When the driver refuses to produce such samples, prosecutors have a tougher time proving DUI prosecutions because they need fewer specific elements, such as driving patterns and alcohol odor.
What Can a Crestview DUI Attorney Do for You?
Challenge the Evidence Against You
The majority of evidence against a DUI offender is subject to challenge or questioning, including medical problems, incorrect field sobriety test administration, and inaccurate breathalyzer test results. A skilled Crestview DUI lawyer will challenge every piece of evidence, and if a large portion of it is rejected, charges may be lowered or dropped. This guarantees the accused a fair trial.
Consult You Whether or Not to Go to Trial
Collecting evidence to prove your innocence and examining evidence against you are parts of pre-trial work. The prosecution may make a plea deal or drop the charges completely if their case becomes weaker.
Your Crestview DUI attorney may assess these agreements and the evidence presented by the prosecution and decide if it would be appropriate for you to challenge the accusations in court. In some situations, a plea agreement could be preferable, but if your case is strong, it might be prudent to go to court and accept the little chance of a guilty conviction.
Present You in Court
An expert Crestview DUI lawyer can be your legal representative in court and help you win the case.
With a professional and experienced team, Browning Law is ready to work for the best result possible. Browning Law's expertise is of a high rank, with a wide range of practice areas that will give you peace of mind.
Contact Browning Law for a Free Consultation on your Crestview DUI case
If you’re facing a DUI charge in Crestview, the team at Browning Law Firm is here to help. Our experienced Crestview DUI lawyer will leave no stone unturned to help you win your case or, at least, minimize the penalties.
Contact Browning Law Firm for a free consultation and take the next steps toward an optimal outcome.
FAQs
1. What are some common DUI defenses in Crestview?
The common DUI defenses are:
- Illegal traffic stop
- Improper Field Sobriety Tests
- Insufficient probable cause
- Inadmissible Breath Test Results
2. How much does a lawyer cost for a DUI in Crestview?
The cost is from $2,500 to over $6,000. Potential court costs, fines, depositions, or subpoenas costs are not included.
3. Can a first-time DUI be dismissed in Crestview?
Depending on the facts of the case, the evidence, procedural issues, and any constitutional rights violations, first-time DUI charges in Florida may be dismissed.