DUI Attorney in Sarasota

Comprehensive DUI Representation in Sarasota County

If you have been subjected to a DUI arrest, a conviction can lead to serious penalties, such as driver’s license suspension, fines, and possibly jail time. The stakes change substantially when a DUI charge goes from a misdemeanor to a felony. You want an experienced criminal defense attorney who knows the law and the process, who can anticipate the strategies and tactics police and prosecutors will use to get a conviction and protect your rights and freedom throughout the legal process.

At the Law Offices of Eric Reisinger, we have the experience you need. Before setting up our practice, Eric Reisinger worked as a prosecutor at the State Attorney’s Office. With more than two decades of experience, our Sarasota DUI lawyer has an in-depth knowledge and understanding of how the state prepares and presents misdemeanor and felony DUI cases. We can quickly and accurately review the evidence against you and provide a realistic assessment of your likelihood of success in defending the charge.

Have you been arrested for a DUI? Call the Law Offices of Eric Reisinger, PA, today at (941) 541-5335 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our DUI lawyer in Sarasota.

What are the Benefits of Hiring a Sarasota DUI Defense Lawyer

Here are several benefits of hiring our Sarasota DUI lawyer:

• Knowledge of DUI Law: We have extensive knowledge of the laws and regulations related to drunk driving, which can be invaluable in ensuring a fair trial.
• Negotiating with Prosecuting Attorneys: Our Sarasota DUI attorney will know how to negotiate with prosecuting attorneys and present legal arguments to get the best possible outcome for your case.
• Understanding Complex Sentencing Guidelines: We can help guide you through the complexities of sentencing guidelines and make sure you understand what is expected from you.
• Investigating Evidence: We can investigate any evidence presented by the prosecution and use this information to challenge their claims or create reasonable doubt about your guilt.
• Crafting Defenses Against Charges: We know how to craft convincing defenses that may result in reduced charges or even dropped cases altogether.
• Finding Opportunities for Plea Deals or Bargaining Agreements: Our Sarasota DUI lawyers are also well-versed in plea deals and bargaining agreements, which may allow clients to avoid jail time or get lesser penalties than they would otherwise receive without representation.

Florida DUI Laws and Penalties

A person can get arrested for a DUI by driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of at least .08 percent or under the influence of drugs. A first DUI conviction is punishable by a maximum jail sentence of six months, fines of up to $1,000, and driver’s license suspension for up to one year.

However, if your BAC is at least .15 percent – almost double the legal limit – or you were driving with a minor passenger at the time of your DUI arrest, you could be charged with aggravated DUI. A first offense carries a jail term of up to nine months and a maximum fine of $2,000.

For drivers under the age of 21, the state of Florida has a zero-tolerance policy; this means that any detectable alcohol in their system is forbidden. A driver underage with a BAC of 0.02% or higher can result in penalties.

First-Time DUI Offense: What to Expect

When you get your first DUI in Florida, you could face harsh penalties depending on a number of factors that occurred in your DUI. You could be facing fines of up to $1,000 and a prison sentence of up to six months, losing your license for 6 months.

If you have no significant prior criminal history, as a first-time offender, you could receive less:

• A $500 fine
• Probation for up to a year
• A license suspension for six months 
• Possibly a six-month jail sentence

If your first DUI leads to the death or significant injury of someone else, you are facing a felony DUI, which is much worse and has harsher penalties. For your first DUI, you may be forced to attend drunk driving school, attend a drug and alcohol program, and be sentenced to community service.

When Does a DUI Become a Felony in Florida?

The following are some examples of felony DUIs in Florida:

• Multiple DUIs – A third DUI charge in ten years or a fourth DUI is a third-degree felony, which can result in imprisonment for up to five years and a fine not exceeding $5,000.
• Serious injury – A DUI causing serious injury is a third-degree felony.
• Death – DUI manslaughter is a second-degree felony, which carries a maximum 15-year prison sentence and a fine of up to $10,000.

Defenses Against DUI Charges 

Our Sarasota DUI attorney handles all matters related to DUI charges, preparing and filing all the necessary documentation and acting as your advocate in all hearings or proceedings. We will fully investigate the facts and circumstances of your case, looking first to see whether law enforcement officers had probable cause to make the traffic stop. We will also review police reports and question witnesses to verify that you were properly advised of your rights before making any statements to police.

Our firm will carefully examine the evidence to establish whether field sobriety and blood alcohol tests were correctly administered. We will look at the history of the arresting officer to determine whether he or she has a history of making things up just to get an arrest. If there are any violations of your constitutional rights, we will seek the exclusion of evidence and/or the dismissal of charges, if appropriate.

What To Do if You Get a DUI?

Getting a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is a serious matter that can have significant legal and personal consequences. If you find yourself in this situation, here are some important steps to take:

• Stay Calm: It's natural to feel anxious and upset, but it's crucial to stay as calm as possible. Panicking or reacting aggressively can make matters worse.
• Cooperate with Law Enforcement: Be respectful and cooperative with the police officers during the stop. You are legally required to provide your identification, registration, and insurance information when asked.
• Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent: You have the right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You do not have to answer questions about how much you've had to drink or where you've been. Politely inform the officer that you wish to remain silent.
• Avoid Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs): You are not legally required to perform field sobriety tests, such as walking in a straight line or standing on one leg. These tests are voluntary and are often used as evidence against you.
• Chemical Testing: In most jurisdictions, you may be asked to take a breathalyzer test or a blood test to measure your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). Refusing these tests can have consequences, such as license suspension, but the penalties for refusal vary by state.
• Contact an Attorney: As soon as possible, contact a DUI attorney with experience in handling DUI cases. They can provide guidance specific to your situation and protect your rights throughout the legal process.
• Understand the Charges: Your attorney will help you understand the charges against you, the potential consequences, and the legal process you will face.
• Attend Court Hearings: You will likely be required to appear in court for arraignment and other hearings. Your attorney will advise you on how to plead and represent you during these proceedings.

Remember that the specific legal consequences of a DUI can vary by jurisdiction, and the advice of a qualified DUI attorney is invaluable in understanding your rights and options. It's essential to consult with an attorney to help you navigate the legal process and work towards the best possible outcome for your case.

Contact Our Sarasota DUI Lawyer Today

Our Sarasota DUI lawyers are here to provide you with experienced legal representation and guidance during this challenging time. We understand the stress and uncertainty that can accompany DUI charges, and we are dedicated to assisting you in navigating the legal process with confidence. At the Law Offices of Eric Reisinger, PA, we aim to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case. With years of experience and a deep understanding of Florida's DUI laws, we can advocate for your interests and work towards a favorable outcome. Contact the Law Offices of Eric Reisinger, PA, and let us be your advocates in the face of DUI charges. Your peace of mind and legal rights are our top priorities. 

Contact Law Offices of Eric Reisinger, PA today to get started on your defense with our DUI attorney in Sarasota.