What Happens After A You Or A Family Member is Arrested For DUI, And What To Do, in Okaloosa or Walton County, FL?
Being arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Okaloosa County or Walton County, FL can be a stressful and confusing experience. Florida’s DUI laws are strict, with serious legal and financial consequences.
Understanding what happens after an arrest and how to protect your rights is critical. Here’s what you can expect and what to look for in a criminal and DUI defense attorney.
The DUI Arrest Process
- Traffic Stop & Field Sobriety Tests:
Most DUI arrests begin with a traffic stop due to suspected impaired driving. Law enforcement officers may conduct field sobriety tests (FSTs) and a breathalyzer test to measure your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). In Florida, a BAC of 0.08% or higher leads to an arrest. - Arrest & Booking:
If arrested, you’ll be taken into custody, where law enforcement will collect your fingerprints, take your mugshot, and process you into the county jail. In Okaloosa County, this typically occurs at the Okaloosa County Jail in Crestview. - First Appearance:
You will appear before a judge within 24-48 hours. During this hearing, the judge will formally present the charges against you and determine whether you’ll be released on bail or remain in custody. - Driver’s License Suspension:
Following a DUI arrest in Florida, your driver’s license is automatically suspended for six months if you fail a breathalyzer test or one year if you refuse the test. You have 10 days from the arrest date to request a Formal Review Hearing with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) to challenge the suspension.
What Are the Legal Consequences?
A DUI conviction in Florida carries severe penalties, including:
- Fines: Ranging from $500 to $2,000 for a first offense.
- Jail Time: Up to 6 months for a first offense.
- Probation: Up to 12 months, including mandatory DUI school.
- License Suspension: 6 months to a year for a first offense.
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Required for certain BAC levels or repeat offenses.
Additionally, a DUI stays on your criminal record permanently and can impact your employment, insurance rates, and more.
What to Look for in a DUI Defense Attorney
Hiring the right DUI attorney can make all the difference in your case. Here’s what to consider when choosing legal representation:
- Experience in Florida DUI Law:
Look for a lawyer with extensive experience handling DUI cases in Okaloosa and Walton County. They should be familiar with local courts, judges, and prosecutors. - Proven Track Record:
Ask about the attorney’s success in reducing charges, securing dismissals, or winning DUI trials. - Knowledge of DUI Defense Strategies:
Your lawyer should be skilled at challenging field sobriety tests, questioning BAC results, and identifying police procedure errors. - Personalized Legal Approach:
Avoid law firms that treat clients like case numbers. Choose an attorney who offers one-on-one consultations and tailored defense strategies.
Why Choose Lupella & Rehr?
For years, Lupella & Rehr has been a trusted DUI defense law firm serving Okaloosa and Walton Counties. Their team has helped clients avoid convictions, reduce penalties, and restore driving privileges.
Here’s why clients trust Lupella & Rehr:
- Decades of Experience: They have successfully defended clients in Florida’s complex DUI legal system.
- Local Knowledge: Their deep knowledge of local courts and prosecutors ensures a strong defense.
- Aggressive Representation: From fighting license suspensions to challenging police procedures, they explore every legal angle to defend your case.
Take Action Today
Facing a DUI charge in Okaloosa or Walton County, FL can be intimidating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Lupella & Rehr provides experienced legal defense, offering personalized service and dedicated representation.
Call (850) 362-6655 today for a free consultation and let them fight to protect your rights, restore your freedom, and secure your future. Don’t wait—get the legal help you need today!
More Information About DUI Arrests, Court & Procedures
- First DUI
- Is It Possible To Get A DUI in Destin, Fort Walton Beach or Okaloosa County Dismissed Or Reduced?
- What Are The Potential Penalties For A Misdemeanor DUI in Okaloosa County & Walton County, Florida?
- Field Sobriety Tests For DUI Stops In Okaloosa County & Walton County
- What Happens After A DUI Arrest in Okaloosa County or Walton County, FL
- Do I Need A Lawyer For A DUI In Florida?
- Second DUI
- Third DUI & Repeat Offenses
- Felony DUI
- License Suspension
- Under 21 DUI
- General DUI Defense