Fort Lauderdale DUI Lawyer
Defending Your Rights with Experience and Compassion
South Florida is renowned for its nightlife, attracting locals and tourists to enjoy its vibrant bar and club scene. Unfortunately, this also means a high number of DUI arrests in Broward County. If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence, the stakes are high—and you need an experienced Fort Lauderdale DUI attorney to fight for your future.
At George Reres Law, P.A., we understand how overwhelming a DUI charge can be, especially if it’s your first experience with the criminal justice system. You may be worried about your job, your license, your family, and your reputation. You don’t have to navigate this alone. With a strong track record in defending clients against DUI charges—including first-time offenses, repeat DUIs, and felony DUI cases—we’re here to help.
Call 954-523-3811 today or fill out our contact form for a free, confidential consultation.
Understanding Florida DUI Laws
Under Florida law, it’s illegal to operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher—or 0.04% if you’re a commercial driver. For drivers under 21, any measurable alcohol level is prohibited. You can also be charged with DUI for being under the influence of drugs, including prescription and over-the-counter medications.
Refusing a breathalyzer or chemical test can result in immediate license suspension under Florida’s implied consent law.
Even if you don’t “feel drunk,” your BAC might still exceed the legal limit due to factors like:
- Body weight and metabolism
- Food intake
- Alcohol tolerance
- Gender
- Medications that interfere with alcohol absorption
Florida DUI Penalties
Florida DUI penalties are some of the strictest in the country. If you’re convicted, consequences may include jail time, fines, license suspension, vehicle impoundment, and required treatment programs.
In the state of Florida, your first conviction for DUI may result in:
- Fines between $500 and $1,000
- Up to 6 months in jail
- 10-day vehicle impoundment
- 180-day to 1-year license suspension
- Enhanced penalties (up to 9 months in jail and $2,000 fine) if BAC was 0.15%+ or a minor was present
For a second conviction:
- Fines between $1,000 and $2,000
- Up to 9 months in jail (1 year for aggravated factors)
- 5-year license revocation if within 5 years of first conviction
- 30-day vehicle impoundment
Third conviction:
- Fines up to $5,000
- Up to 12 months in jail
- 10-year license revocation if within 10 years of prior
- 90-day vehicle impoundment
Fourth or subsequent convictions:
- Minimum $2,000 fine
- Up to 5 years in prison
- Permanent license revocation
Other Consequences of Conviction:
- Higher car insurance premiums
- Loss of job or driving-based employment
- Negative impact on scholarships and education
- Long-term stigma and criminal record
How a Fort Lauderdale DUI Attorney Can Help You
We build personalized defense strategies and challenge the prosecution at every stage. Common DUI defenses include:
- Unlawful traffic stop (no reasonable suspicion or probable cause)
- Inaccurate breath or blood test results due to improper calibration, handling, or administration
- Duress (forced to drive under threat)
- Lack of actual physical control (e.g., sleeping in a parked car without keys in ignition)
- You were not impaired, despite BAC results
An experienced Fort Lauderdale DUI lawyer will evaluate every detail to determine whether the evidence against you can be suppressed or charges dismissed.
DUI Penalties for Commercial Drivers
Commercial drivers face stricter standards. A CDL holder can be charged with DUI at just 0.04% BAC. A conviction results in:
- 1-year CDL suspension, or 3 years if transporting hazardous materials
- Possible criminal penalties (fines, incarceration, DUI school)
- Loss of livelihood if CDL is required for work
Why Early Legal Representation Matters
Don’t assume a DUI charge will “blow over.” Early representation is critical. Hiring a local Fort Lauderdale DUI attorney as soon as possible allows us to:
- Intervene before charges are finalized
- Protect your license and driving privileges
- Collect and challenge evidence before it’s lost
Why Early Legal Representation Matters
Don’t assume a DUI charge will “blow over.” Early representation is critical. Hiring a local Fort Lauderdale DUI attorney as soon as possible allows us to:
- Intervene before charges are finalized
- Protect your license and driving privileges
- Collect and challenge evidence before it’s lost