Clay County DUI Attorneys

Handling DWI Cases in Green Cove Springs & Beyond

Have you been pulled over and arrested for drunk driving? Whether this is your first DUI or your fifth, you need legal representation from a trusted criminal defense lawyer right away.

The Clay County DUI lawyers at Haslett Law have over two decades of combined experience representing the criminally accused in Green Cove Springs and the surrounding areas. Our husband-and-wife team works closely with clients to develop an airtight defense and an effective legal strategy.

Call us at (904) 299-1188 or contact us online right away for a free consultation to discuss your DWI charges.

Fighting Your DUI Charges

Haslett Law can represent you at all stages of the DUI process. Our Clay County DUI attorneys are prepared to heavily scrutinize the state attorney's case.

We will question:

• The legality of the initial traffic stop
• Whether the DUI investigation was videotaped
• Whether the field sobriety tests were administered properly
• The voluntariness of providing the breath sample
• The legality of a forced blood draw
• The legality of a roadblock
• The driver's medical or health problems causing poor performance on the field sobriety tests
• Whether the police officer failed to read your Miranda rights
• The officer's prior disciplinary record
• Any inconsistent breath test results
• Failure to provide a trial within your speedy trial period
• Whether there were any independent witnesses
• Whether the driver was in actual physical control of the vehicle

The Impact of a DUI Conviction

In Florida, DUI charges carry potential penalties exceeding just jail time or probation. A DUI conviction will result in a “mandatory adjudication,” which means it is permanently on your record and therefore not eligible to be sealed or expunged.

A DUI conviction could also carry:

• Court costs
• Fines
• Community service
• Vehicle immobilization
• Installation of an ignition interlock device
• Attendance at a victim impact panel
• DUI school

You may also be facing an administrative suspension of your driver’s license by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. If that is the case, you only have 10 days to request a formal review hearing to contest the suspension. In that hearing, we can challenge the administrative suspension of your driver’s license in conjunction with the DUI arrest and failed or refused breath test.

DUI Defense Strategies

If you have been arrested for DWI, you might be feeling like you have no chance of escaping a conviction. Don’t panic – there are plenty of effective DUI defense strategies we can employ to protect you from an aggressive and life-changing sentence.

Some of the many defense strategies we may present include:

• Someone else was driving
• The rising blood alcohol defense
• The drinking after driving defense
• Lack of reliability in the breath test, including margin of error in the breath machine
• Necessity (it was absolutely necessary that you had to drive under the influence)
• Statute of limitations
• Involuntary intoxication
• Vehicle was inoperable

Is It Worth It to Hire A DUI Lawyer

Hiring a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) lawyer can be highly beneficial in many cases. While the decision ultimately depends on the specifics of your situation, here are some reasons why hiring a DUI lawyer might be worth it:

• Legal Expertise: DUI laws can be complex and vary by jurisdiction. A specialized DUI lawyer will have a deep understanding of the laws relevant to your case and can navigate the legal process more effectively.
• Knowledge of Legal Procedures: DUI lawyers are familiar with the legal procedures involved in DUI cases, including administrative and court processes. They can guide you through each step and ensure that your rights are protected.
• Case Assessment: A DUI lawyer can assess the details of your case, including the evidence against you. They can identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution's case and develop a strategy to challenge the charges.
• Reducing Penalties: In some cases, a DUI lawyer may be able to negotiate with prosecutors to reduce the severity of penalties or charges. This could involve minimizing fines, license suspension periods, or jail time.
• License Suspension Defense: DUI convictions often lead to driver's license suspension. A DUI lawyer can help you understand and navigate the administrative process to potentially minimize the impact on your driving privileges.
• Legal Options Exploration: Depending on the circumstances, a DUI lawyer can explore alternative resolutions such as plea bargains, diversion programs, or enrollment in alcohol education programs.
• Court Representation: If your case goes to trial, having a DUI lawyer to represent you can be crucial. They can present a strong defense, cross-examine witnesses, and challenge evidence on your behalf.
• Understanding Local Procedures: DUI lawyers are familiar with local courts, judges, and prosecutors. This familiarity can be advantageous in negotiating and navigating the legal system more effectively.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that you have a knowledgeable advocate working on your behalf can provide peace of mind during a stressful legal process.

It's important to note that every case is unique, and outcomes can vary. Consultation with a DUI lawyer can help you understand the specific circumstances of your case and the potential benefits of legal representation. Keep in mind that DUI laws and legal practices may change, so it's crucial to consult with a legal professional for the most up-to-date advice.

To learn more about how Haslett Law can defend you against DUI charges, call us at (904) 299-1188.