Last updated November 2025
A DUI arrest in South Florida is never minor. With penalties that include jail, license suspension, fines, and mandatory DUI programs, your future depends on choosing the right defense — and the right attorney.
As a former prosecutor now defending DUI clients across Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade, I know how local courts handle these cases and what strategies actually work.
π Florida DUI Law
Under Florida Statute §316.193, a DUI conviction can result in:
License suspension (6β12 months for a first offense)
Fines & probation
Jail time (up to 6 months, more for aggravators)
Mandatory DUI school
π Related: DUI License Suspension in Florida
βοΈ What Makes the Right DUI Lawyer?
Local experience: Knowledge of judges, prosecutors, and court procedures in Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade.
Technical expertise: Understanding the Intoxilyzer 8000 and DUI testing protocols.
Trial experience: Ability to take weak cases all the way to jury trial.
Pre-filing advocacy: Engaging prosecutors early to reduce or avoid charges.
π Related: DUI Defense Services
π‘οΈ Defense Strategies That Work in South Florida
Challenging the stop β No probable cause? Suppression may follow.
FSE errors β Field sobriety exercises are subjective and often flawed.
π Related: Field Sobriety Tests in Florida: Are They Mandatory?Breathalyzer issues β Calibration, operator error, or faulty maintenance can undermine results.Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β π Related: Challenging Breathalyzer Calibration in Florida
Medical explanations β Conditions like diabetes or GERD can mimic impairment.
Video contradictions β Dashcam/bodycam footage can expose weaknesses in the Stateβs case.
π£ Protecting Your License and Record
You have just 10 days from arrest to request a DMV hearing to contest your suspension. Missing this window means losing your license automatically.
π Arrested for DUI in South Florida? Call today for a free consultation.
π Learn more about our Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Services.
Florida DUI Penalties Under Statute §316.193 Explained
1) What counties are considered South Florida for DUI defense?
Typically Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade.
2) Can penalties differ by county?
Yes. Each county has different diversion programs, judges, and prosecutors.
3) Do I need a lawyer if it’s my first DUI?
Yes. Even first DUIs carry permanent consequences.
4) How fast should I act after a DUI arrest?
Immediately. You only have 10 days to request a DMV hearing.
5) Can DUI charges be dismissed in South Florida?
Yes. Suppression motions, weak evidence, or diversion programs can lead to dismissal or reductions.