DUI AGGRESSIVE DEFENSE & DEDICATED REPRESENTATION

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Panama City DUI Attorney

Fight Your DUI Charges! Call Shepard Law Today

Whether this is your first arrest or if you have a prior conviction on your record, you cannot afford to take any chances with the situation. Our DUI lawyer in Panama City has handled more than 6,000 criminal cases and is ready to assist with your defense.

Engaging early in the legal process can significantly impact the trajectory of your case and improve potential outcomes. We offer realistic evaluations and tailored strategies that focus on your particular circumstances.

Entrust your case to a former prosecutor with a 6,000 case track record—we are available 24/7! Get started with a FREE consultation by calling (850) 290-2505 today.

Understanding DUI Laws in Panama City

Florida Statute § 316.193 defines a person as guilty of DUI if we prove the following:

The person drove or was in actual physical control of a vehicle; AND
The person was under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances to the extent that their normal faculties were impaired; OR
The person had a Blood/Breath Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.

The battle begins immediately after your arrest, long before your criminal trial.

Panama City has one of the highest per capita DUI rates in the country. Many people who have been arrested for driving under the influence give up on fighting the charges and holding the state to the burden of proving the cases.

In the face of evidence such as a failed field sobriety test or a breath/blood test which demonstrates a blood alcohol concentration above .08%, many people believe there is no way to avoid a DUI conviction.

However, seeking legal counsel from a qualified DUI lawyer in Panama City can significantly alter the outcome of your situation. A knowledgeable DUI attorney can examine the evidence against you, identifying any inconsistencies to suppress certain pieces of evidence or argue the validity of the field sobriety test results.

What is the Difference Between OUI, OVI, & OWI in Florida?

In Florida, terms like OUI, OVI, and OWI are sometimes used interchangeably with DUI, though DUI is the official and most common term. These acronyms highlight differences in how impaired driving is defined in various jurisdictions.

Understanding these distinctions helps clarify your rights and potential penalties. Skilled attorneys ensure your defense strategy accounts for these nuances within Florida law and related legal interpretations.

What is a Field Sobriety Test?

If you are pulled over or suspected of DUI, the officer is likely going to perform one of the three Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFST):

Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test - For this test, the officer will observe the eyes of the person as they slowly move a pen or small object back and forth to look for indicators in each eye that the person is impaired.
Walk-and-turn test - For this test, the officer instructs the person to take about nine steps, touching heel-to-toe in a straight line, and then return back. The officer is looking for signs that the person is impaired, such as not being able to keep their balance, starting before the instructions are finished, or not following the instructions properly.
One-leg stand test - For this test, the officer instructs the person to stand on one foot and hold this pose for about 30 seconds or until told to put it down. The officer looks for signs of impairment such as swaying, hopping, or using their arms to balance.

Understanding how these tests work can be critical to your defense. Each test has specific criteria and methods for evaluation, and any deviation from these standardized methods by law enforcement can be challenged. Errors in administering or interpreting these tests can provide an opening to contest their reliability.

Local DUI Trends & Insights in Panama City

Known for its vibrant tourist attractions and nightlife, Panama City faces unique challenges in managing DUI offenses. The intersection of high visitor volume and local residents increases the likelihood of DUI charges, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Recent data suggests a steady rise in DUI checkpoints and random breath testing, aiming to curb incidences. For this reason, having legal representation from a DUI attorney in Panama City familiar with these trends is invaluable for anyone accused.

Potential DUI Penalties in Florida

Penalties for a DUI in Panama City can include the following:

Up to $1,000 in fines
50 hours of community service
One year on probation
As long as six months in jail
Vehicle impoundment lasting ten days
Driver's license suspension for 180 days to one year

In addition to these penalties, a DUI conviction can have long-term consequences on your career and personal life. Many employers perform background checks and may view a DUI conviction unfavorably.

Furthermore, professional licenses may be jeopardized, leading to potential career setbacks. Attending an approved DUI education program is often required as a part of the probation terms, which can be a time-consuming commitment.

Avoiding a DUI Conviction in Panama City

A plea to a DUI carries many mandatory penalties, including steep fines, driver's license suspension, installation of an ignition interlock device on your vehicle, community service hours, and the possibility of jail time.

Of course, your insurance company will likely dramatically increase your rates. The truth is that it is possible to challenge any DUI case and, in many cases, the circumstances surrounding the case lead to a strong defense.

Developing a strong defense often involves scrutinizing the actions of law enforcement during the arrest.

Did they follow the correct procedures?
Were there errors made during the administration of the breathalyzer or field sobriety tests?

Furthermore, understanding the ramifications of a DUI on your life can emphasize the importance of contesting these charges strategically. It is not uncommon to have a DUI case reduced from a DUI to Reckless Driving once a solid defense is presented to the prosecutor.

Proven Strategies to Fight DUI Charges

There are many tactics that are specific to defending against the charge of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

One effective approach involves challenging the validity of the traffic stop. Were the initial reasons for pulling you over justified? If the arresting officer lacked probable cause, any evidence gathered thereafter could be inadmissible.

Another strategy focuses on the proper maintenance and operation of testing equipment, ensuring breathalyzers are up-to-date and functioning correctly during your test.

Did the arresting officer have probable cause to pull you over?
Did the officer make mistakes in explaining or administering the field sobriety tests?
Was the Intoxilyzer 8000 out of calibration?

No matter how dire the situation may appear, as experienced former prosecutors, Mr. Shepard approaches DUI cases with the goal of having the DUI charge dismissed, reduced, or obtaining a "Not Guilty" verdict at a jury trial. Our dedicated focus on the intricate details of each arrest, such as examining witness statements and officer reports, enhances our ability to provide a robust defense.

Call for Your Free Evaluation & Qualified Legal Guidance

Shepard Law provides a keen understanding of these local trends, drawing on extensive experience with both resident and tourist cases. This localized insight enables our team to preemptively address common prosecutorial tactics and guide our clients through Panama City's specific legal framework.

We handle various types of DUI charges, including:

Additionally, our 24/7 availability ensures that help is always within reach whenever you need it, offering investigations and consultations in real-time to fortify your defense from the outset.

Contact a Panama City DUI attorney at Shepard Law today. Mr. Shepard is available 24/7 to take your calls at (850) 290-2505.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Immediately After a DUI Arrest?

The first crucial step after a DUI arrest is to remain calm and respectfully comply with law enforcement. Avoid making any statements that could be used against you. Once you are able, contacting a DUI defense lawyer in Panama City as soon as possible should be a priority. Retaining a DUI defense attorney from Shepard Law immediately after your arrest can provide guidance on your rights and assist in beginning to build a formidable defense from the very outset of the proceedings. Quick legal intervention can also assist in preserving any potential evidence that could be beneficial for your case.

Can I Refuse a Field Sobriety Test in Florida?

In Florida, drivers are within their rights to refuse field sobriety tests without immediate legal penalty, as these tests are typically voluntary. However, implied consent laws in the state require drivers to submit to chemical tests (like breath, blood, or urine analysis) upon arrest, with refusals potentially leading to an automatic license suspension. Understanding these rights and their implications better equips you to safely navigate a DUI stop. Consulting with a knowledgeable DUI attorney Panama City can further clarify these scenarios, providing you with strategies tailored to your circumstances.

How Can a DUI Affect My Insurance Rates?

A DUI conviction often results in substantial increases in insurance premiums, as insurance companies categorize you as a high-risk driver. This change can affect your policy for years, causing financial strain. Florida law requires drivers with DUI convictions to obtain an FR44 policy, which is a certificate of financial responsibility with higher coverage levels. Consulting with Shepard Law can offer insights into how best to manage these increases and navigate insurance adjustments after a DUI.

Are There Alternative Sentencing Options for DUI Offenders?

Alternative sentencing options, such as probation, community service, or attendance in a DUI education program, may be viable in some DUI cases. These alternatives typically are considered depending on the circumstances surrounding the offense, such as the level of intoxication and whether it is a first-time offense. By working with an experienced drunk driving attorney Panama City at Shepard Law, you can explore all possible options, understanding which are feasible given your specific situation and strategizing to present a compelling case for such alternatives to the court.

What Is the Role of an Ignition Interlock Device?

An Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is a court-ordered breathalyzer for your vehicle, which you may be required to install as part of your sentencing for a DUI in Florida. It requires a breath sample to start the vehicle and periodically during longer trips. Its role is to prevent further incidents of driving under the influence by ensuring the driver is not impaired. Understanding the conditions and costs attached to this requirement can be part of your legal strategy, as minimizing usage or avoiding this penalty altogether may be possible with effective legal representation from a DUI lawyer Bay County.

SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION

No Charges Aggravated Assault
ALLEGATION: Client arrested for drive-by shooting and was facing the possibility of a minimum mandatory 15 year prison sentence under Florida's 10-20-Life Law. RESULT: After consulting with with prosecutors and law enforcement NO CHARGES WERE FILED.
Negotiated Plea DUI Manslaughter
ALLEGATION: Client charged with DUI Manslaughter. Client faced up to 15 years prison and a permanent loss of his drivers' license. RESULT: Client entered negotiated plea to probation and is eligible to drive with a hardship license.
Not Convicted Sexual Battery
ALLEGATION: Client who holds a professional certification and license with the State of Florida was accused of Sexual Battery with the possibility of 15 years prison and mandatory "Sexual Offender" designation. Arrest was reported in the Panama City News Herald. RESULT: Charge reduced without consent of victim to simple battery (misdemeanor). Client NOT CONVICTED of any criminal offense and not designated a Sexual Offender. Client able to return to work without loss of professional certification and license
Client NOT CONVICTED Violation of Probation
ALLEGATION: Client violated probation for a second time by failing to report ("absconding"), committing a new crime of Battery, not completing DUI school and failing to complete court ordered community service hours.
Not Convicted Violation of Probation
ALLEGATION: Client violated probation by failing to report ("absconding") and committing a new felony of Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Forgery. Client was on probation for 7 counts of Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud, 6 counts of Forgery, and 6 counts of Criminal Use of Personal Identification.

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What Sets Shepard Law Apart?

Your case is our priority. We aim for the best outcome.

We understand the complexities of the legal system and the impact on your life. Our focus is on securing your future.

Available 24/7
Former Prosecutors
Free Initial Consultation
Over Four Decades of Experience
Superb Rating on Avvo
Handled 10,000+ Cases

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