A DUI conviction in Florida can mean jail time, license suspension, and skyrocketing insurance rates. At Russo Law & Advocacy, Dominique Russo leverages her experience as a former prosecutor to challenge breathalyzer errors, illegal stops, and aggravated DUI charges across Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties. We act fast to protect your driving privileges and future.
Our Miami DUI Attorney Is There for You
Florida police aggressively target drivers at DUI checkpoints—especially in high-traffic areas like Miami Beach and Fort Lauderdale. Whether you’re facing a first-time DUI or a 2nd DUI with enhanced penalties, we scrutinize every detail of your arrest to build a strong defense.
Defending Against DUI Checkpoints in South Florida
Checkpoints in Miami (I-95, Biscayne Blvd) must follow strict protocols. We review bodycam footage to prove officers violated your rights under Florida Statute § 316.1906.
Felony DUI Charges – Is a DUI a Felony in Florida?
A DUI becomes a felony on 3rd offenses or if there’s serious injury (FS § 316.193). Our attorneys negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges to reckless driving.
License Suspension Hearings
You only have 10 days to request a DMV hearing after a DUI arrest. We file immediate appeals to save your license.
Florida DUI Laws (Florida Statute § 316.193)
Under Florida law, a DUI means driving with a BAC of 0.08%+ or impaired faculties. Penalties escalate fast:
- 1st DUI: Up to 6 months jail, $1K fine, 6-month license suspension
- Aggravated DUI (BAC 0.15%+): Mandatory ignition interlock
- Felony DUI: 5+ years prison for fatalities
Types of DUI Cases We Handle
First-Time DUI
Even a first offense triggers fines and probation. We often get charges dismissed if police lacked probable cause.
2nd DUI Offense
Mandatory 10-day jail in Florida. We argue improper stop or calibration errors in breath tests.
DUI with Property Damage
Common in Miami Beach fender-benders. We challenge ‘impairment’ evidence with traffic cam footage.
Key Defenses in DUI Cases
- Illegal Traffic Stop: Was there valid reason to pull you over?
- Breathalyzer Errors: Machines require calibration every 3 months (we subpoena records).
- Field Sobriety Test Flaws: Medical conditions can skew results.
Steps in a Florida DUI Case
- Arrest & Booking (Request independent blood test within 2 hours)
- DMV Hearing (10-day deadline to save your license)
- Plea Negotiations (Reduce to reckless driving?)
- Trial (Juries often doubt police testimony in Miami courts)
Why You Need a DUI Specialist
Prosecutors push for maximum penalties—especially near DUI checkpoints in tourist areas like Key West. Dominique Russo knows how to expose weaknesses in the state’s case.
DUI Defense FAQs
Is a DUI a Felony in Florida?
Only 3rd+ offenses or DUIs causing injury. First/second DUIs are misdemeanors.
Can I Refuse a Breath Test at a DUI Checkpoint?
Yes, but automatic 1-year license suspension under Florida’s implied consent law.
Contact Our Miami DUI Attorney
Don’t wait—Florida gives you only 10 days to fight license suspension! Call Russo Law & Advocacy 24/7 at (305) 209-5301. Serving Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and all South Florida counties.
