Four Corners First DUI Defense Lawyer

Helping First-Time DUI Offenders in Four Corners, FL

Being arrested for a first DUI can be a frightening and confusing experience. You may be worried about losing your license, paying hefty fines, or even facing jail time. At The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, our experienced first DUI defense attorneys understand how stressful this situation can be — and we’re here to help you protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.

Whether you were stopped at a DUI checkpoint or pulled over for suspected impaired driving in Four Corners, our team will carefully review every detail of your case. We know Florida DUI laws inside and out, and we fight to minimize the consequences of a first-time offense whenever possible.

Contact us today at (888) 835-5840 to schedule a confidential consultation.

What is a DUI in Florida?

Under Florida Statute §316.193, a person commits Driving Under the Influence (DUI) when they are operating or in actual physical control of a vehicle and:

• Have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or
• Are under the influence of alcohol or drugs to the extent that their normal faculties are impaired.

This includes impairment caused by prescription medications, illegal drugs, or a combination of substances.

It’s important to note that you can still be arrested for DUI even if your BAC is below 0.08% if the officer believes your driving ability was affected by alcohol or drugs.

Florida takes DUI charges seriously — even a first offense can lead to significant criminal and administrative penalties. Hiring our Four Corners first DUI defense lawyer from The Law Offices of Justin Rickman can make all the difference in how your case is resolved.

What Happens After I'm Arrested?

After a DUI arrest in Florida, several steps occur that can impact your driving privileges and criminal record:

1. The Arrest and Booking

You’ll likely be taken into custody, and your driver’s license will be confiscated. You’ll receive a temporary permit valid for 10 days, during which you must decide whether to request a DMV hearing to challenge your license suspension.

2. The Administrative License Suspension

If you fail to request a hearing within 10 days, your license will be automatically suspended — even before your criminal case is resolved. The suspension for a first DUI is typically 6 months if you refused testing, or up to 1 year if your BAC was over 0.08%.

3. The Arraignment

At your arraignment, you’ll be formally charged and given the opportunity to enter a plea. Having an attorney from The Law Offices of Justin Rickman present at this stage ensures that your rights are protected from the very beginning.

4. The Pretrial and Evidence Review

Your defense lawyer will obtain and analyze all evidence, including police reports, breathalyzer results, and body cam footage. If there were errors in testing procedures, unlawful stops, or violations of your constitutional rights, your attorney can move to suppress evidence or even have your case dismissed.

5. Trial or Plea Negotiations

Many first DUI cases are resolved through plea agreements or diversion programs that can help you avoid a criminal conviction. However, if necessary, The Law Offices of Justin Rickman is fully prepared to take your case to trial and fight for your acquittal.

First DUI Offense Penalties

Even though a first DUI is a misdemeanor offense, the penalties in Florida can still be severe. The specific consequences depend on the circumstances of your arrest, such as your BAC level and whether any aggravating factors were present.

Standard First DUI Penalties:

• Fines: Between $500 and $1,000.
• Jail: Up to 6 months (though often suspended for first-time offenders).
• License Suspension: 6 months to 1 year.
• Probation: Up to 1 year.
• Community Service: Minimum of 50 hours or an additional fine.
• Vehicle Impoundment: 10 days.
• DUI School: Mandatory completion of a state-approved DUI education course.

Enhanced Penalties Apply If:

• Your BAC was 0.15% or higher.
• You had a minor passenger in the vehicle.
• You caused an accident or property damage.

In such cases, fines may increase to $2,000, and jail time could rise to 9 months or more.

An experienced Four Corners first DUI defense attorney from The Law Offices of Justin Rickman can help you pursue options such as a hardship license, reduced charges, or even case dismissal, depending on the evidence.

How Our Firm Can Help

Trying to handle a DUI charge alone can be risky. The legal process is complex, and the consequences can affect your driver’s license, employment, and insurance rates for years.

At The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, we provide:

• Thorough investigation into the legality of your traffic stop and arrest.
• Analysis of breath and blood test results for accuracy and reliability.
• Negotiation with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties.
• Representation at DMV hearings to protect your license.
• Defense in court, if your case goes to trial.

We believe everyone deserves a fair defense — especially first-time offenders who may have made a one-time mistake.

First DUI FAQs

Will I lose my driver’s license for a first DUI?

Yes, your license may be suspended for up to a year. However, you may qualify for a hardship license that allows you to drive to work or school. Your attorney can help you apply.

Can I refuse a breathalyzer test?

You can refuse, but under Florida’s Implied Consent Law, doing so results in an automatic one-year license suspension, even if you’re not convicted.

Will a DUI stay on my record forever?

A DUI conviction in Florida cannot be sealed or expunged. However, if your attorney successfully gets your charges reduced or dismissed, you may be eligible to expunge the arrest record.

Is jail time mandatory for a first DUI?

Not necessarily. Many first-time offenders avoid jail through plea agreements, probation, or participation in diversion programs.

What’s the difference between a DUI and a DWI?

In Florida, the law uses the term DUI (Driving Under the Influence). The term DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) is used in some other states, but generally refers to the same type of offense.

Contact a Four Corners First DUI Defense Attorney Today

If you’ve been arrested for a first DUI in Four Corners, you need legal representation immediately. Every decision you make — from requesting a DMV hearing to how you plead — can affect your future.

At The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, we’ve helped countless first-time offenders protect their rights, their licenses, and their freedom. We’ll stand by your side from start to finish, fighting for the best possible outcome.

Your future matters—call us at (888) 835-5840 to learn your next steps and get the help you need today.