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Protect Your License After A DUI Charge

A drunk driving charge can come unexpectedly — maybe you were driving home from dinner after a few drinks, and you accidentally crossed the state’s blood alcohol content threshold. The consequences for this type of mistake can be severe: large fines, a suspended license, and repeat offenders can even face jail time. For those who use a commercial driver’s license for their work, a DUI charge can suddenly deprive you of your livelihood as well. That’s why it’s crucial to hire an experienced defense attorney committed to helping you reach a positive outcome. At McNelis Law, P.A., we will stand up for your rights and help you keep your life running as smoothly as possible.

What Are Your Options In Challenging Breathalyzer And Field Sobriety Tests?

When someone is charged with a DUI, one of the most important parts of the case involves the accuracy of the tests used to measure impairment. Many people assume that a breathalyzer or field sobriety test is flawless, but that is not always the case. There are valid legal grounds to challenge a breathalyzer in Florida or question the reliability of field sobriety test results.

Several factors can affect the accuracy of these tests, including:

  • Improper calibration or maintenance: Breathalyzers require regular calibration to produce accurate readings. A poorly maintained device can give false results.
  • Officer training errors: If the arresting officer did not follow the proper testing procedures, the results may not hold up in court.
  • Medical or environmental factors: Conditions such as acid reflux, diabetes or even mouthwash can skew breathalyzer accuracy.
  • Unreliable field tests: Weather, surface conditions or fatigue can make someone appear impaired even when sober.

These issues can create sobriety test errors that weaken the prosecution’s case. Having an experienced DUI defense attorney examine every detail of your test administration and results can make a real difference.

Our skilled lawyer understands how to challenge these findings effectively and protect your rights throughout the field sobriety test defense process.

What Should You Expect In A DUI Court Process In Polk County?

Facing a DUI charge can be confusing, especially if it is your first time dealing with the DUI court process. In Polk County, each step follows a specific structure that determines how the case moves forward. Knowing what to expect helps you prepare and work closely with your attorney.

The DUI court process in Polk County typically includes the following stages:

  • Initial appearance: The defendant is formally informed of the charges, and bail or release conditions may be set.
  • Pretrial hearings: Both sides exchange evidence and may discuss plea deals.
  • Motion hearings: Your lawyer may challenge the legality of evidence, such as an improper stop or faulty breathalyzer results.
  • Trial: If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a DUI trial process before a judge or jury.

Every DUI court appearance carries serious consequences, so preparation and legal representation are essential. Our knowledgeable DUI attorney can guide you through each phase, protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome for your case.

Legal Support For First-Offense DUI Charges, And Repeat Offenders

Whether you are facing your first DUI charge or the most recent of several, we can help. We will analyze the details of your situation and design a defense strategy tailored to your needs.

Whenever possible, we will seek to have the charges against you dropped. By reviewing police documentation of your arrest and all other available information, we will search for procedural violations and errors in the administration of sobriety tests that may undermine the prosecutors’ case against you.

When a DUI charge cannot be dropped outright, we will seek for reduced charges or a reduced sentence. In all cases, our highest priority is to minimize the impact of a misdemeanor or felony charge on your life.

Experienced DUI Defense In Central Florida

Don’t let a drunk driving charge derail your life or your career. Get an experienced lawyer who can protect your criminal record and your driving privileges. To see how McNelis Law, P.A., can help you, call 863-410-0041 or contact us online and schedule a free initial consultation in our Bartow, Florida office.