Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in both Miami and Broward County. If you’ve been arrested for DUI in South Florida, time is of the essence—and securing an experienced DUI attorney should be your first move.

Understanding DUI Laws in Florida

In Florida, you can be charged with DUI if you are caught operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or if your normal faculties are impaired due to drugs or alcohol—even if your BAC is below 0.08%. For commercial drivers, the legal limit is 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, any BAC of 0.02% or higher may result in DUI charges under Florida’s Zero Tolerance policy.

Law enforcement officers typically use a combination of field sobriety tests, breathalyzer results, and officer observations to make an arrest. If you refuse a breath test, your license can be suspended automatically under Florida’s implied consent law.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest?

If you’re arrested for DUI in Miami or Broward County, you’ll likely be booked, held overnight, and face an arraignment shortly after. The penalties for a first-time DUI conviction in Florida include:

• Up to 6 months in jail

• Fines ranging from $500 to $1,000

• License suspension for 6 to 12 months

• Mandatory DUI school

• Possible vehicle impoundment

• Community service hours

• Ignition interlock device (in some cases)

Repeat offenses can lead to significantly harsher penalties, including felony charges, long-term license revocation, and mandatory jail time.

Why You Need a DUI Attorney

DUI cases in South Florida move fast. Hiring an experienced DUI attorney immediately can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. A good DUI lawyer will:

• Review the legality of the traffic stop

• Analyze the breathalyzer calibration and maintenance records

• Challenge field sobriety test procedures

• Identify violations of your constitutional rights

• Negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options

Many people mistakenly believe that a DUI charge automatically leads to a conviction. This is not true. An experienced attorney can often find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case that may lead to dismissal or significant reduction of the charges.

Fighting for Your Future in Miami & Broward County

Miami and Broward prosecutors aggressively pursue DUI cases. Whether your arrest happened in Miami Beach, Downtown Fort Lauderdale, or anywhere in between, the consequences of a conviction can follow you for life. A DUI on your record can affect your employment opportunities, insurance premiums, housing applications, and more.

A local defense attorney with experience in both county court systems will understand the procedures, judges, and prosecutors you’ll be facing. This local knowledge can help craft the best defense strategy tailored to your specific case.

Can a DUI Be Reduced or Dismissed?

Yes, under certain conditions, a DUI charge can be reduced to reckless driving or even dismissed entirely. Common factors that may support a reduction include:

• Lack of probable cause for the stop

• Insufficient evidence of impairment

• Improperly conducted or unreliable field sobriety tests

• Procedural mistakes during arrest

An experienced attorney will review every detail of your case to determine the best course of action.

Don’t Wait — Act Now

If you or a loved one has been arrested for DUI in Miami-Dade or Broward County, don’t wait to seek legal help. The earlier your attorney can get involved, the better your chances are of avoiding harsh penalties. Whether it’s your first offense or you’ve been charged before, your rights deserve to be defended by a skilled professional.

Contact a DUI Attorney Today

Facing DUI charges in South Florida? The Beaton Law Firm is here to help. Our experienced legal team will guide you every step of the way, providing strong, strategic representation tailored to your case.

📍 Locations:

• Miami, FL

• Fort Lauderdale, FL

• Serving all of Miami-Dade and Broward County