Facing a DUI Charge in Orlando? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Orlando or Orange County, you might be feeling overwhelmed. Florida DUI laws are strict, and a conviction can lead to severe consequences—including license suspension, fines, increased insurance rates, and even jail time. But an arrest doesn’t mean a conviction. You have options to fight back.

At Hov Law, we provide DUI defense strategies tailored to the Orlando court system. Keep reading to learn more about DUI charges in Florida, potential defenses, and what steps to take after an arrest.

Florida DUI Laws: What You’re Up Against

Under Florida Statute 316.193, you can be charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) if:
✔ Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher
✔ You are impaired by alcohol or drugs, even if your BAC is below 0.08%

Penalties for a First-Time DUI in Orlando

A first DUI conviction in Florida can result in:

• Driver’s license suspension (up to 1 year)
• Fines ($500–$1,000)
• Jail time (up to 6 months)
• Mandatory DUI school and community service

Enhanced Penalties for Multiple DUI Offenses

If this is your second or third DUI, penalties increase:

• Second DUI: Up to 9 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,000, and a 5-year license suspension
• Third DUI (within 10 years): Felony charges, up to 5 years in prison, and permanent license revocation

🚨 Did you refuse a breath test? Florida has an implied consent law, meaning that refusing a breathalyzer automatically results in a license suspension (even if you weren’t over the limit).

Can You Fight a DUI Charge in Florida?

Yes! DUI cases are highly defensible, and an arrest does not guarantee a conviction. A DUI lawyer in Orlando can analyze the facts of your case and look for potential defenses, such as:

🔎 1. Was the Traffic Stop Legal?

Police must have a valid reason (probable cause) to pull you over. If they stopped you without justification, the entire case could be challenged.

⚖️ 2. Are the Breathalyzer Results Reliable?

Breathalyzers aren’t always accurate—faulty calibration, medical conditions, or improper testing procedures can all skew results.

🚔 3. Were Field Sobriety Tests Administered Properly?

Field sobriety tests (FSTs) are subjective and can be influenced by factors like nervousness, medical conditions, or poor lighting. If the tests weren’t properly administered, their validity could be questioned.

📋 4. Are There Inconsistencies in the Police Report?

Mistakes or inconsistencies in the officer’s report or body cam footage can weaken the prosecution’s case.

What to Do Immediately After a DUI Arrest in Orlando

If you or a loved one has been arrested for DUI in Orlando or anywhere in Orange County, take these steps right away:

✅ Remain Silent – Don’t admit to drinking or answer questions without a lawyer.
✅ Request a Lawyer – The sooner you get legal representation, the better your defense.
✅ Request a DMV Hearing – You have only 10 days to challenge your license suspension.
✅ Write Down Details – Document everything about the stop, including the time, location, and officer’s behavior.

How a DUI Conviction Can Impact Your Future

A DUI charge doesn’t just affect your driving privileges—it can impact your career, finances, and reputation. A conviction may:

🚗 Increase your car insurance rates (or lead to cancellation)
👔 Affect employment opportunities, especially for jobs that require driving
📜 Result in a permanent criminal record, making it harder to find housing or loans
⚖️ Lead to professional license suspension, if you work in law, healthcare, or government

This is why fighting your DUI charge is critical.

Why Choose Hov Law for DUI Defense in Orlando?

If you’ve been arrested for DUI, you need a legal team that understands Orlando’s DUI laws and court system. At Hov Law, we:

🔹 Analyze every detail of your case for defense opportunities
🔹 Challenge faulty breathalyzer results and police procedures
🔹 Negotiate for reduced charges or case dismissal when possible
🔹 Guide you through DMV hearings and court proceedings

Take Action Now – Your Defense Starts Today

⏳ Time is limited! You only have 10 days to request a hearing and fight for your license. Don’t wait—contact Hov Law today.

📞 Call us now for a free consultation: 407-801-0101
🖥️ Visit us online at www.hov.law to learn more.