DUI Defense Lawyers in Clermont, FL
Serving Drivers in the Four Corners Area & Surrounding Areas
After a DUI arrest in Florida, you may feel like a target, with prosecutors eager to make an example out of you by pursuing severe criminal penalties and long-term consequences. At The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, we understand what is at stake.
Our team provides aggressive and knowledgeable defense strategies to protect your rights, challenge weak or flawed evidence, and fight for the best possible outcome. We have defended Floridians against these serious charges since 2003 with a strong track record of positive results.
What Constitutes a DUI Offense in Florida?
Driving under the influence (DUI) is defined in Florida Statutes § 316.193. You can be charged with DUI if you are:
- Operating or in actual physical control of a vehicle,
- While under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or a chemical substance,
- To the extent your normal faculties are impaired,
- Or with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
You do not need to drive erratically or cause an accident to be arrested. Sitting behind the wheel with the engine running may be enough to establish "actual physical control" in the eyes of the law.
Florida DUI Penalties
The penalties you face depend on whether it is a first offense, a subsequent offense, and other factors, such as BAC level, and whether you caused an accident in which someone was injured or killed.
Penalties include:
- Jail and prison time: Sentences can range between six and nine months in jail for a first offense and a maximum of five years in prison for a fourth offense.
- Probation: Probation can last six months for a first-time offense and five years for a fourth offense.
- Fines: Fines range from $500 to $2,000 for a first offense to $5,000 for a fourth offense.
- Ignition interlock: The terms range from six months for a first offense (if the blood alcohol content is 1.5 or higher) to two years for a fourth offense.
- DUI school: Convicted drivers must complete Level 1 or Level 2 DUI school courses and recommended treatment.
- Community service: Judges must order 50 hours for a first offense. Most DUI convictions require community service.
- Vehicle impound: Impoundment ranges from 10 days for a first offense to 90 days for a fourth offense.
- Felony: A third DUI conviction within 10 years or a fourth DUI conviction will result in a felony conviction.
In addition to the criminal penalties, you face administrative penalties, such as license revocation, and collateral consequences, such as increased auto insurance rates.
Consult a Clermont DUI attorney at The Law Offices of Justin Rickman about your case. Call (888) 835-5840 to schedule a free initial consultation. Hablamos español.
Voices of Victory
4.8 Google Rating from 150 of our Clients
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“Angela Alcime was a Godsend who helped us navigate some muddy waters and resolve some tough issues. She really knows what she's doing. More than that, she actually cares.”- David L.
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“We were so pleased and appreciative of the friendliness and professionalism of Mr. Rickman and the staff that we couldn’t have been happier.”- Gregg S.
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“Angela was exceptional in assisting my family. Within a 5-minute conversation, she knew exactly how to assist my family and worked within our time constraints.”- Norma V.
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“If you want a upfront, straight forward, professional go-getter, Justin and his team are all that and more!”- Nathan P.
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“He and his staff made me feel like my needs were a priority, exuded professionalism, and I always felt like I had an advocate in my corner.”- Christopher F.
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“He is a straight shooter and doesn't sugar coat, which was also very appreciated. I recommend Justin 100% and would definitely use him again if the need arises.”- Shannon Z.
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“I will always continue to recommend Mr. Rickman to anyone in need and I am confident that him and his team will be able to take care of them!”- Brandon T.
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“I highly recommend him to anyone in need of a good attorney. I am very thankful for his service and kindness.”- Jimmy
Should You Fight a DUI Charge?
Many people ask, “Should I fight a DUI charge?” The answer is yes. Even if the evidence seems stacked against you, DUI cases are rarely as straightforward as they appear. What may look like an open-and-shut case often involves legal and procedural issues that can be challenged with the right defense strategy.
Our attorneys can also walk you through the potential consequences of a DUI conviction and what it could mean for your future. A DUI charge can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to define your life. With the proper legal guidance, you can fight for a better outcome.
At our firm, we take the time to thoroughly review the details of your traffic stop and arrest. We listen closely to your account and carefully examine the circumstances of your case.
We explore every potential defense, including:
- Was the initial traffic stop lawful?
- Did the officer have probable cause to detain or arrest you?
- Were breath or blood tests administered and appropriately processed?
- Were there alternative explanations for your behavior or BAC reading?
- Were your constitutional rights respected throughout the process?
Our Core Values
We always provide our clients with a realistic assessment of their likelihood of success and are driven by three core values:
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True Commitment
At our firm, unwavering dedication defines everything we do. We stand by our clients with integrity, diligence, and a relentless pursuit of justice.
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Delivery of Effective Results
We are a dedicated team of legal professionals committed to delivering strategic, timely, and results-driven solutions tailored to our clients' needs.
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Bang for Your Buck
We want you to receive maximum value for your legal investment - experienced representation, transparent pricing, and results that matter.