Miami DUI Lawyer Ken Hassett

A priest who was recently charged with driving while under the influence (DUI) in South Florida may require more than spiritual assistance to help him out of his dilemma. He will certainly need legal assistance, the type that is available from a qualified Miami DUI lawyer.

The 35-year-old clergyman was taken into custody after he was seen swerving on a Sanibel Island road, almost striking a fire hydrant before he was stopped by police. The suspect, who was returning from a personal engagement, claimed to have consumed only one alcoholic drink. However, he showed definite signs of intoxication, as indicated by his slurred speaking and the fact that he twice dropped his wallet while reaching for his driver’s license, initially taking out his credit card by mistake. He subsequently “stumbled” through a sobriety test. Based on the findings of a breathalyzer test given him, the priest had an alcohol level that was more than twice the legal limit of 0.08. Charged with DUI, he was released on bail the following day, but he could face serious consequences if convicted. This priest could defintely benefit from the services of a Miami criminal lawyer.

In Florida, a first-time DUI conviction can result in a fine of up to $500 and up to six months in jail. Additionally, those so convicted can lose their driving privileges for up to a year and may have to deal with the installation of ignition interlocking devices on the vehicles they drive. The penalty could be more severe for drivers carrying at least one minor. Fines and jail sentences will progressively increase for those convicted of subsequent DUI offenses. The severity of the punishment is reason enough for anyone so charged to seek help from a Miami criminal lawyer.

Help from a Qualified Miami DUI Lawyer

Fortunately, there are defenses to such charges. An expert Miami criminal defense lawyer may challenge the validity of sobriety or other tests given suspects or the tactics employed by the police. It may even be possible to challenge the basis of a stop that led to DUI charges. In other cases, defendants may be able to plead guilty to lesser crimes in order to avoid greater penalties. If you have been charged with DUI, a good decision on your part will be to contact the criminal defense law firm of Kenneth P. Hassett at 954-791-3939.