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Criminal Defense Lawyer in Orlando, FL | Hanlon Law

Orlando DUI Lawyer

DUI Defense Attorney in Orlando, Florida

Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most commonly prosecuted criminal offenses in Florida. Law enforcement agencies take allegations of impaired driving very seriously because a motor vehicle operated by someone whose judgment or physical abilities are impaired can pose a significant danger to others on the road. As a result, DUI charges often carry severe legal consequences, even for individuals who have never been arrested before.

If you have been arrested for DUI in Orlando, it is important to seek experienced legal representation as soon as possible. At Hanlon Law, Orlando criminal defense attorney Will Hanlon represents individuals facing DUI charges and works to protect their rights and their future.

What Constitutes DUI in Florida?

DUI offenses in Florida are governed by Florida Statute 316.193. Under this law, a person may be convicted of DUI if prosecutors can prove that they were operating or in actual physical control of a motor vehicle while impaired.

A driver may be charged with DUI if:

Their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher, or
Their normal faculties are impaired by alcohol, controlled substances, or certain chemical substances

DUI laws apply not only to alcohol but also to drugs and medications that may impair a person’s ability to safely operate a vehicle.

Florida’s Implied Consent Law

Florida drivers are also subject to the state’s implied consent law, which means that by obtaining a driver’s license, a driver agrees to submit to chemical testing if lawfully arrested for DUI.

These tests may include:

Breath tests
Blood tests
Urine tests

Refusing to submit to chemical testing may result in administrative penalties, including a suspension of driving privileges.

Potential DUI Penalties in Orlando, Florida

The penalties for DUI vary depending on the circumstances of the case, including prior convictions, blood alcohol levels, and whether the incident involved injuries or property damage.

Possible consequences may include:

Fines starting at $500 or more
Probation
Mandatory DUI education programs
Community service requirements
Jail time
Driver’s license suspension or revocation
Vehicle impoundment or immobilization

Courts may also order the installation of an ignition interlock device, which requires the driver to provide a breath sample before the vehicle will start.

Misdemeanor and Felony DUI Charges in Orlando, Florida

Most first-time DUI offenses are charged as misdemeanors, but certain circumstances can elevate the offense to a felony.

For example, DUI charges may become more serious if:

The driver has multiple prior DUI convictions
The incident resulted in serious bodily injury
The crash resulted in death, which may lead to DUI manslaughter charges

Felony DUI offenses carry significantly more severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and long-term license revocation.

Defending Against DUI Charges in Orlando, Florida

A DUI arrest does not automatically mean a conviction. There may be several potential defenses depending on the facts of the case.

An experienced DUI defense attorney may evaluate issues such as:

Whether the traffic stop was lawful
Whether law enforcement had probable cause to make the arrest
Whether the driver was actually in physical control of the vehicle
Whether field sobriety tests were administered properly
Whether breath or blood testing equipment was properly maintained and calibrated

Challenging the reliability of chemical testing or the procedures used during the investigation can sometimes lead to reduced charges or dismissal.

Time-Sensitive License Suspension Issues in Florida

In addition to criminal penalties, a DUI arrest may also trigger an administrative suspension of your driver’s license. In many cases, drivers have only a short period of time to request a hearing to challenge the suspension and potentially obtain limited driving privileges.

Because these deadlines can be strict, seeking legal advice quickly after an arrest is important.

Speak With an Orlando DUI Defense Attorney

A DUI conviction can have lasting consequences that affect your driving privileges, employment opportunities, and criminal record. Having knowledgeable legal representation can make a significant difference in how your case is handled.

At Hanlon Law, we provide experienced and dedicated defense for individuals facing DUI charges in Orlando and throughout Central Florida. Our firm carefully examines the evidence in each case and works to pursue the most favorable outcome possible.

If you have been charged with DUI in Orlando, call Hanlon Law at (407) 987-3836 or contact us online today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn more about your legal options.