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Florida DUI Defense: Statewide Representation

If the outcome of a DUI charge is extremely important, connect with O’Mara Law Group in Orlando. The earlier our talented DUI defense attorneys move into action, the better it could be for your case. We move into action quickly, with a strategic approach to pursuing a positive case outcome.

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DUI Manslaughter

Were You Stopped by Police and Charged with DUI?

Charges of DUI are filed against drivers accused of having a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher. Florida law allows for a DUI charge even when BAC is under the legal limit if an officer alleges a driver was under the influence of any alcoholic beverage, chemical substance, or controlled substance to the extent that the substance affected “normal faculties.”

DUI Defense in Orlando— Our Scope of Practice

A DUI conviction can have very serious consequences—jail time, fines, license suspension, and worse. At O’Mara Law Group, our board-certified criminal defense attorney in Orlando offers top-tier legal representation for a range of DUI-related charges, including but not limited to the following:

  • Felony DUI
  • DUI Manslaughter
  • Vehicular Homicide
  • Field Sobriety Test
  • First Offense DUI
  • Second Offense DUI
  • Third Offense DUI
  • Fourth Offense DUI
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DUI Charges in Florida: State Law

State laws regarding DUI are found in the Florida Statutes, Section 316.193. You can be arrested and charged with DUI in Florida even if your BAC is less than .08%. The law allows for charges regardless of BAC level if law enforcement alleges you were driving impaired. Commercial drivers are held to a stricter standard with a legal limit of .04%. Florida enforces a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under the age of 21. The legal BAC limit for underage drivers is .02%.

The following are some key aspects of DUI charges in Florida:

  • The state’s implied consent law is in the Florida Statutes Section 316.1932. Under this statute, anyone driving in Florida has given implied consent to drug or alcohol testing if lawfully arrested for DUI. Refusal to submit to testing can be used as evidence in court, resulting in automatic license suspension.
  • The severity of penalties for DUI offenses is based on factors such as BAC levels, prior convictions, or cases in which a minor was in the vehicle. Penalties escalate with each subsequent offense and may include imprisonment, fines, probation, mandatory substance abuse courses, license suspension, and installation of an ignition interlock device.
  • DUI carries enhanced penalties with aggravating circumstances, such as accidents that cause injury or death.
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DUI Convictions: The Consequences

In addition to criminal and administrative penalties, a DUI conviction can have long-term consequences in several aspects of life, including the following:

  • Personal relationships: The stigma associated with a DUI conviction can cause stress and embarrassment and strain relationships with family and friends.
  • Employment: Being convicted of DUI can lead to job loss or difficulty securing employment, particularly in positions that require a background check or a clean driving record.
  • Licensing and insurance: A driver’s license suspension can make commuting difficult and daily activities much more challenging. Auto insurance rates increase after a DUI conviction.
  • Reputation: Professionals, including doctors, attorneys, celebrities, and other high-profile individuals can experience reputational damage when accused of driving drunk.

DUI in Orlando— Strategies for the Defense

Our skilled criminal defense attorneys believe every client deserves a well-crafted, persuasive, and personalized defense. We take the time to investigate every detail and build a strategy using any of the following defenses that may apply in your case:

  • Challenging the legality of the traffic stop: Police officers must have probable cause to pull you over. If an officer stops you without proper justification, we can challenge the legality of the stop and potentially get the evidence dismissed.
  • Questioning the accuracy of BAC testing: Although most DUI cases rely on breathalyzers and blood tests to measure BAC, these tests are not always accurate. Issues that could lead to a successful challenge include improper calibration, procedural errors, and health conditions affecting results. All equipment and testing methods are evaluated to identify any inaccuracies in the results.
  • Challenging the validity of field sobriety tests: Police administer field sobriety tests on the side of the road to establish impairment, but these tests can be unreliable. Weather conditions, footwear, and physical or mental conditions may affect performance.
  • Challenging implied consent violations: Although testing is required under Florida law, police officers must follow strict protocols. If any violation occurred, it could lead to evidence being deemed inadmissible.

At O’Mara Law Group in Orlando, we offer client-focused care and a highly professional approach to defending misdemeanor and felony DUI offenses. We are always available to our clients, day or night. Our founder, Mark O’Mara, is board-certified in criminal trial law, a highly respected attorney in Florida, and an on-air legal expert on CNN and Court TV. The entire legal team at the firm brings impressive skills to every defense. When a DUI case poses a risk to your freedom, future, and your reputation, contact O’Mara Law Group. In most cases, you can speak to one of our attorneys the day you call us.

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Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

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Compassionate Assistance

The Mark O’Mara Law Firm was a wonderful place and outstanding. Mark was very helpful and always made time for me, answering all my questions. But my hero was Susan Staggs, who prepared all of my paperwork. She is a real magician who takes it seriously.

N.L.

Exceptional Service

Mark O'Mara and his office provided excellent service, demonstrating professionalism and personal attention to all my details of my cases. He is one of the best in his field as a criminal and family attorney. He is honest, direct, and he always does his best for his client.

K.M.

Support in Family Law

Mr. O’Mara and his entire staff, especially Alyssa, were absolutely impressive with everything. Very efficient and punctual; their understanding of every little detail was way beyond expectations. Honestly, this law group has made a major difference in my life.

K.R.

Expert Guidance in Family Law

I can't thank Mr. Thompson and his team enough for their outstanding support. From the very first meeting, Sarah was incredibly knowledgeable and attentive. They handled every aspect of my case with such professionalism and care. This legal team truly changed my life.

B.M.

Dedicated to Fighting Your Cause

Knowing Mark O’Mara as an attorney who has represented me for the past 23 years and has also been a friend… I can say that Mark is not only dedicated to fighting your cause, but his team shares that same dedication. When you call his office the girls at the front desk always strive to assist you. As for the rest of his team they are committed to winning the best...

R.M.

Nothing Short of Amazing

Mr O’Mara and the entire staff were nothing short of amazing. Mr. O’Mara knew exactly what we needed to do and has even offered additional advice for any future risks. This was all new for me and they walked me through everything step by step and were very patient and most of all responsive and caring. THANK YOU!!!

G.G.

They Are Top Notch!!!!

I cannot express the gratitude I have for Mark O’Mara, Susan and their firm. I had a very difficult custody situation and they guided me towards the best decisions and fought for me. I highly recommend O’Mara Law Group. They are top notch!!!!

M.M.

Such a Professional and Personable Firm.

Such a professional and personable firm. Everyone treated me with respect throughout my entire process. I absolutely dread ever needing the services of an attorney again but I would certainly go straight back to Mark. Susan was awesome and she totally got me from day one. I can’t begin to say how helpful that was for me. Thank you to the entire team!!

S.D.

I Am Truly Proud

By far, the best person, if you ever need an attorney and someone who will always be there for you. I am truly proud to have Mark as my attorney, advisor and friend. Thanks Mark and Alyssa. Michael Hoffman, Attorney at Law and C.P.A.

M.H.

Way Beyond Expectations

Mr. O’Mara and his entire staff especially Alyssa were absolutely impressive with everything. Very efficient and punctual and the overall understanding of every little detail was way beyond expectations. Honestly this law group has made a major difference in my life and helped me through many obstacles associated with owning multiple businesses and continue to do so in...

N.L.

They Were Ready to Fight the Fight

When I went in for my consultation with Mark and Caitlin, I was in a state of total devastation. They lifted the burden and took away the stress of my situation by making me feel completely taken care of. They were ready to fight the fight I didn’t have the emotional strength to do so on my own. I have and will continue to recommend their law group to anyone needing le...

M.S.

Mark Omara was GREAT

Mark has represented me and I hate to say 2 family members of mine, all 3 times mark has delivered success. He has to be the best lawyer I have ever dealt with, he is caring of the situation and of your fears in facing legal matters , he made us feel comfortable , safe and protected. Surprisingly he never made me feel down on myself for stupid things I created that lead to h...

M.
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