If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Fort Lauderdale, you’re not alone — but you are on the clock. From the moment those cuffs go on, your rights, license, and future are at risk. The decisions you make in the first 24–72 hours can shape the outcome of your entire case.
That’s why it’s critical to speak with a Fort Lauderdale DUI lawyer as soon as possible.
🕒 Step 1: Act Fast — You Only Have 10 Days to Save Your License
After a DUI arrest in Florida, you only have 10 days to request a formal review hearing to challenge your driver’s license suspension. Miss the deadline, and your license goes into automatic suspension — even before you step foot in court.
A Fort Lauderdale DUI lawyer can immediately:
File for the DMV hearing
Help you apply for a hardship license
Begin gathering critical evidence while it’s still fresh
🧾 Step 2: Understand What You're Charged With
DUI in Florida isn’t a one-size-fits-all charge. You could be facing:
Misdemeanor DUI (with or without accident)
DUI with Property Damage
DUI with Serious Bodily Injury
Felony DUI (e.g., multiple priors or injury)
Each charge carries its own penalties, ranging from license suspension to jail time — and only a seasoned Fort Lauderdale DUI lawyer can walk you through what to expect in Broward County court.
⚖️ Step 3: Protect Your Rights — Even If You Blew Over the Limit
Many people think if they failed a breathalyzer or blood test, they’re automatically guilty. Not true.
An experienced DUI lawyer may challenge:
Whether the stop was legal
If police followed proper testing protocol
Whether the machine was calibrated properly
Whether your BAC was accurate at the time of driving
💡 Related Post: Facing a DUI After a Crash? Why Timing of Your BAC Test Matters
👨⚖️ Step 4: Show Up to Court Prepared — With a Strategy
Your first appearance in court is called an arraignment. Don’t walk in unrepresented.
A Fort Lauderdale DUI lawyer can:
Enter a not guilty plea on your behalf
Begin negotiating with the prosecutor
Push for dismissal or reduction of charges
File early motions to suppress key evidence
🛡 Why Choose Michael White, P.A. as Your Fort Lauderdale DUI Lawyer?
As a former prosecutor in Broward County and General Counsel to the Broward PBA, I’ve handled hundreds of DUI cases from both sides of the courtroom.
My firm fights aggressively to:
Preserve your license and clean record
Challenge breath, blood, and refusal cases
Protect professionals, students, and visitors from lasting consequences
📞 Call 954-270-0769 or contact us online for a free consultation.
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🙋 Frequently Asked Questions
What happens after a DUI arrest in Fort Lauderdale?
You’ll be taken to jail, issued a citation or court date, and your license may be suspended. Act quickly to protect your rights.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time DUI?
Yes. Even a first DUI can lead to jail time, a permanent record, and loss of your license. Legal guidance can make all the difference.
Can a Fort Lauderdale DUI lawyer get my charges dropped?
Possibly. If police violated your rights or made procedural errors, a skilled lawyer may be able to get your case dismissed.
Will my mugshot be public after a DUI arrest?
Yes, unless sealed or expunged. Your Fort Lauderdale DUI lawyer can advise whether you’re eligible for record sealing.
How soon should I call a DUI lawyer after arrest?
Immediately. The sooner your lawyer gets involved, the better your chances of a successful outcome.