Dedicated Orlando DUI Defense Lawyers Ready To Help You

Orlando DUI defense lawyer

Criminal traffic violations can lead to serious legal consequences.

Depending on the criminal charge, a conviction can lead to penalties ranging from points on your license to fines to driver’s license suspension, fines and a prison sentence.

One of the traffic violations that is taken most seriously by Florida law enforcement agencies and state prosecutors is intoxicated driving or driving under the influence.

If you have been arrested for drunk driving in Orange County, FL, it is imperative that you seek immediate legal help from an attorney experienced in criminal defense. The case against you can move very quickly.

At Moses & Rooth, Attorneys at Law, our Orlando DUI defense attorneys are strong advocates for our clients.

We have the skills and experience needed to provide you with the top-quality legal defense that you deserve.

If you or your family member has been arrested for drunk driving or drugged driving in Orlando, please do not hesitate to contact our law firm today for a fully confidential consultation.

We are a Full-Service Orlando DUI Defense Law Firm

If you have been charged with a criminal traffic offense, it’s important that you work with an experienced defense attorney who can work to protect your rights.

At the Orlando, Florida, law firm of Moses & Rooth, Attorneys at Law, we are experienced in handling all major traffic violations and DUI charges, including:

Further, we have handled these charges on “both sides” of the law — as defense lawyers and as criminal prosecutors.

10/10 Andrew Moses is a professional hard working lawyer who goes above and beyond for his clients. If you’re scared about the legal system and in a bind look no further he will give you a clear view.
veronica heissner
veronica heissner
2023-04-01
Paul Ghezzi took his time and listened to my issue AND did exactly what he said he would do. If you want someone who will listen and follow their word, then call Paul.
Jordan Cristwell
Jordan Cristwell
2023-03-23
Absolutely tremendous staff (Tracy was Great 👍🏾). Attorney Rooth gave me a layout of the charges I was facing and he was able to successfully fight my tickets that would've jeopardized my driving record. Highly recommended. Can't thank ya enough
Emmanuel Rogers
Emmanuel Rogers
2023-03-23
This law firm went on a 2 year roller coaster ride with me. They kept me from going to prison. They got me into rehab. I can say for certain that I am sober and intend to stay this way. Thanks to Mr. Jay Rooth , THE ORLANDO BRIDGE, My family and friends and above all myself. I can finally close this chapter in my life. Thanks again Moses and Rooth.
robert carlin
robert carlin
2023-02-23
A wealth of legal expertise coupled with a make it happen professional attitude is exactly what you get when you hire Attorney Paul E. Ghezzi, Esq., of Moses & Rooth, to represent you. From my initial consultation Paul exuded an air of overwhelming confidence in his ability to get the Court to grant my motion for early termination of probation. Mom always said to me that God gave us all 2 ears to listen twice as much as we talk. Paul did just that, he listened intently to my intricate predicament which is a major attribute in the legal world. Having said that, when he spoke, I hung on every word and the motion was granted. Thank you Paul. Ladies and gentlemen, to regain your peace of mind in tough legal times, get yourself a magnificently savvy go-getter type of attorney.......Call Moses & Rooth and ask for Attorney Paul Ghezzi. With Paul, failure is NOT an option!
Byrd Risner
Byrd Risner
2023-02-02
Paul Ghezzi, ESQ. represented me for a felony criminal defense case. He was able to get my 2 felonies dismissed & arrived at a plea for a misdemeanor with minimal fine and time served. He spent the time searching through my discovery and watching body cam footage to find my defense. An iron clad one at that That left the prosecution confused on why I was getting the deal of a lifetime. His knowledge on case law, his dedication of time to his clients and his empathy are unmatched. He is even trying to help me find an attorney to help me with a case I have in another state. Above & beyond is an understatement and the retainer was more than reasonable and well worth it. As somebody whose criminal history is as tall as me I have never had a lawyer fight for me, until now. If you find yourself in the position to need a power house attorney, look no further. You found him. to put this into full view for you, a case I could have done 5 years in prison for and have been sentenced to that for similar cases in the past, he was able to get me time served (for two days I spent in county awaiting bond), less than a $1,000 fine and NO PROBATION. When I have priors. I’m going to say it again, LOOK NO FURTHER.
Ashley Renee
Ashley Renee
2023-01-28
I have hired attorneys in the past and I have to share that I’ve never had an attorney like Paul Ghezzi from Moses & Rooth, Attorneys at Law. Paul kept in contact with us through the entire process. Paul was always available for any questions we had and was always willing to go the extra mile. From my family to you Paul you are more than just attorney your now my friend. You are so much appreciated. Thank you Paul for being you! I strongly recommend this law firm if any of these attorneys give you 50% of what Paul has done for my family you will be in great shape!
Vicente Vigil
Vicente Vigil
2023-01-27
I had an excellent experience with Moses and Rooth. From beginning to end I felt I had trusted the right firm. Jay Rooth represented me in my case and having an attorney who was pleasant, professional, and very experienced was everything. During a stressful time, I feel much of the stress was reduced due to the fact I made a good decision going with Jay. What is also important is everyone at this office is fantastic and helpful throughout the process. Many thanks !
Erin Meaney
Erin Meaney
2023-01-24
If I could tell Mr. Jay Rooth a million times how much I thank and appreciate him I would ! After being told by three attorneys that my case was complicated and couldn’t be turned around, I almost gave up but my last attempt to fix my situation was the best decision I could have made ! Mr. Rooth worked so efficiently to help me. His knowledge, confidence, and reassurance is truly unbelievable. He updated me, communicated with me and did not miss a beat ! I will forever be grateful, I’ve been bragging on him ever since our first conversation! 10/10 HIGHLY RECOMMEND !!!!!!
Nastashia Kirkwood
Nastashia Kirkwood
2022-08-20
Andrew is an amazing attorney. He really cares about his clients and goes above and beyond. Finding him was a blessing and my family and I will be forever be grateful to him.
Jessy C.
Jessy C.
2022-07-11

Understanding Florida DUI Laws

No matter the specific circumstances, a DUI is a serious offense in Florida. The potential penalties for a DUI can be severe.

The penalties in your case will depend on the nature of your arrest as well as your history of conduct. Still, even if you have no prior offenses on your record and you were only alleged to have been slightly over the legal limit, you still need to seek guidance from an experienced Orlando DUI lawyer.

There is no such thing as a minor DUI.

The Florida DUI guidelines are as follows;

  1. 1st offense—A fine of up to $500, a license suspension for up to 6 months, up to 6 months of jail time, and up to 50 hours of community service.
  2. 2nd offense—A fine of up to $1,000, a license suspension for up to 12 months, up to 9 months of jail time, and up to 50 hours of community service.
  3. 3rd offense—A fine of up to $2,500, a license suspension for up to 5 years, up to 12 months of jail time, and up to 50 hours of community service.

Notably, for repeat DUI offenders, the second conviction can come with mandatory jail time.

For example, a second DUI conviction in the same five-year period comes with a mandatory minimum ten-day prison sentence under Florida law.

Other aggravating factors can potentially turn a DUI into a felony charge.

For example, if the drunk driver was involved in a major accident, and that resulted in injuries, they may be charged with a felony. Similarly, if there was a child in the car at the time of the arrest, the defendant may face a felony charge.

How Our Orlando DUI Defense Lawyers Can Help Save Your License

Did you know that your driver’s license can be suspended before you have ever had your day in court?

Under Florida law, a person who has been arrested for a DUI is subject to an immediate administrative suspension of their driver’s license.

The good news is that you can typically stop this from happening.

From the date of your arrest, you have ten days to submit a request to have the administrative suspension review. To save your license, please get help from an experienced Orlando DUI defense attorney.

DUI Defense Strategies

Drunk or impaired driving poses a significant risk to public health and safety. Therefore, state and federal laws allow the police to identify offenders and charge them with the crime of DUI. However, the U.S. Constitution guarantees criminal defendants a meaningful opportunity to present a complete defense.

In Florida, various defenses are available if the State has accused, arrested, or charged you with DUI. The defenses typically involve suppressing evidence, presenting an affirmative defense, or negating an element of the offense. Understanding your rights and remedies is crucial to presenting a compelling defense and minimizing penalties and consequences. It’s always wise to consult with a DUI attorney in Orlando to discuss potential defenses.

Suppression Defense

Those accused of DUI in Florida can challenge their charge based on constitutional, legal, or administrative grounds. These challenges typically involve filing a motion to suppress evidence. A motion to suppress asks the court to exclude certain types of incriminating evidence or statements, but it will only be successful if it is based on appropriate legal grounds. Some common grounds for a DUI motion to suppress involve challenging the following:

  • Traffic stop,
  • Field sobriety test,
  • Breath test,
  • Blood test, or
  • Urine test.

Most of these challenges stem from improper procedures, mistakes, or constitutional violations by law enforcement.

Negating an Element

In Florida, the State must prove every element of a DUI case to secure a conviction. This means that prosecutors must prove the following:

  1. The accused was driving or in actual physical control of a vehicle;
  2. While in control of the vehicle, the accused was under the influence of drugs or alcohol; and
  3. This influence impaired the accused’s faculties.

An accused may craft a defense based on negating any one of the above elements. For example, a defense that negates an element may include the following:

  • Asserting that the State cannot prove who was driving;
  • Contending that the State cannot prove that the accused was under the influence either because the tests were improperly administered or otherwise in error, or because the symptoms observed were due to a different illness; or
  • Arguing that no one could drive the car because it was inoperable.

These are just a few possible ways to negate an element of a DUI charge. The viability of these defenses hinges on the unique circumstances of the offense and the experience of a DUI attorney in Orlando.

Affirmative Defenses

Generally, DUI defenses involve discrediting or disproving the government’s case. As such, the prosecutor maintains the burden to prove all of the elements of the offense, and a defense attorney will work to prevent the government from meeting that burden. 

In contrast, an affirmative defense places the burden of proof on the person who is accused.

Affirmative defenses are available in Florida DUI cases. However, this strategy can be risky and involves a comprehensive understanding of complex legal concepts. If your lawyer wants to use an affirmative defense, that means that you admit you were driving under the influence, but circumstances excuse or justify your behavior. Let’s look at some affirmative defenses for a Florida DUI case.

Necessity

Necessity involves admitting to DUI but arguing that some emergency created no other option. Necessity is not a common defense to DUI charges in Florida because the threshold for what amounts to an emergency is high.

Duress

Duress involves admitting to DUI but arguing that you had no choice because someone made you commit the crime through force, coercion, or duress.

Entrapment

You may assert an entrapment defense if you can successfully argue that law enforcement caused you to commit a crime you would not otherwise commit. While this defense can work in some cases, it is not as likely to work for a DUI.

Involuntary Intoxication

Involuntary intoxication may be a viable defense if you can prove you did not consume the drugs or alcohol of your own free will.

Affirmative defenses are case-specific. You should work with an Orlando DUI lawyer to ensure the defense does not compromise your rights.

Sentencing and Post-Conviction Considerations in Orlando

Florida maintains a set of mandatory penalties for those convicted of DUI. Accordingly, judges do not have discretion and must impose certain restrictions. These repercussions include:

Judges have the discretion to impose additional punishments. However, a DUI defense attorney can help you secure less severe punishments.

Sentencing Options for Those Convicted of DUI in Orlando

Under Florida law, judges can order alternative sentences as credit toward jail time. However, these alternatives are typically only available for first-time offenders with misdemeanor DUI convictions. DUI offenders in Florida may be eligible for electronic monitoring, work release, and residential treatment programs. Further, an attorney may help facilitate DUI courses and community service options and assist with license revocation issues.

Possibility of Appealing a DUI Conviction

Those convicted of DUI in Florida may challenge their conviction or sentence. Appeals are much more complicated than initial trials and require a comprehensive understanding of complex appellate procedures and substantive laws. However, a successful appeal can lead to a reversal, a new trial, or a new sentencing hearing. 

Expungement of a DUI conviction

Florida has some of the strictest expungement laws in the nation. As a result, Florida DUI convictions cannot be expunged or sealed. However, those whose DUI charges were dismissed, dropped, or reduced may be eligible to have their records sealed or expunged.

Overview of DUI Penalties in Florida

The penalties you face will depend on whether this is your first offense or if you have been convicted of DUI within the last 10 years.

  • First offense for DUI 
    • Fines — $500- $1,000
    • Jail — up to six months in the county jail
    • Vehicle impoundment — mandatory 10 days of vehicle impoundment
    • Probation — up to one year of supervised probation
    • Driver’s license suspension — can range from six months to a year suspension
    • Ignition interlock — up to six months
    • Additional penalties include a minimum of 50 hours of community service, an approved DUI Counter Attack School including a substance abuse evaluation with any recommended treatment, and the Victim Awareness Class
  • Second offense for DUI within five years of first DUI conviction
    • Fines — $500- $2,000
    • Jail — must serve a minimum of 10 days in the county jail and the maximum amount of jail time is nine months
    • Vehicle impoundment — mandatory 10 days of vehicle impoundment
    • Probation — up to one year of supervised probation
    • Driver’s license suspension — five years
    • Ignition interlock — a minimum of 12 months
    • Additional penalties include an approved DUI Counter Attack School including a substance abuse evaluation with any recommended treatment, and the Victim Awareness Class
  • Second offense for DUI outside five years of the first DUI conviction —
    • Fines — $500- $2,000
    • Jail — up to nine months in the county jail
    • Vehicle impoundment — mandatory 10 days of vehicle impoundment
    • Probation — up to one year of supervised probation
    • Driver’s license suspension — between six months and one year
    • Ignition interlock — a minimum of 12 months
    • Additional penalties include an approved DUI Counter Attack School including a substance abuse evaluation with any recommended treatment, and the Victim Awareness Class
  • Third offense for DUI within ten years of the first DUI conviction
    • Fines —- $1000- $5000
    • Jail — Must serve a minimum of 30 days in the county jail.The maximum amount of jail time is twelve months
    • Vehicle impoundment — mandatory 10 days of vehicle impoundment
    • Probation — up to one year of supervised probation
    • Driver’s license suspension — 10 years
    • Ignition interlock — a minimum of 24 months
    • Additional penalties include an approved DUI Counter Attack School including a substance abuse evaluation with any recommended treatment, and the Victim Awareness Class
  • Four or more DUI felony offense 
    • Fines — $1,000- $5,000
    • Jail — The maximum amount of jail time is five years
    • Vehicle impoundment — mandatory 10 days of vehicle impoundment
    • Probation — up to five years of supervised probation
    • Driver’s license suspension — permanent revocation
    • Ignition interlock — a minimum of 24 months
    • Additional penalties include an approved DUI Counter Attack School including a substance abuse evaluation with any recommended treatment, and the Victim Awareness Class

Contact Our Orlando DUI Defense Attorneys Today

Whether you are a Florida resident or a tourist from another state, Florida traffic violations can affect your driving privileges, finances and your freedom. Make sure you understand your rights. At Moses & Rooth, Attorneys at Law, we have provided diligent criminal defense legal services to numerous clients facing criminal traffic charges. To schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced Orlando DUI defense lawyer, call our Orlando office.

Orlando DUI FAQs

What Should I Do After Being Pulled Over for a Suspected DUI?

In the event that you are stopped on the suspicion of drunk driving, you have a duty to bring your vehicle to a stop as quickly as it is safely possible to do so. Do not make any sudden or suspicious movements.

What Are the Different Types of DUI Charges in Florida?

In Florida, those accused of DUI may face the following charges including Misdemeanor DUI, Felony DUI, or Underage DUI. The level of crime the State charges you with depends on the circumstances of your case.

How Can a DUI Attorney Help Minimize the Consequences of a DUI Conviction?

DUI attorneys can help minimize the consequences of a DUI by filing suppression motions that prevent the prosecutor from pursuing charges or motivates the prosecutor to reduce the charges to something less serious like reckless driving. Your attorney can also use various angles, like asserting that the State’s case is weak, to negotiate a plea deal that minimizes penalties.

What Is the Legal Limit for BAC in Florida?

Under Florida law, the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08%. Anything at or above that means you were over the legal limit. However, the legal BAC drops to .02% for those under 21 years old.

Should I Make a Statement to the Police?

The Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution protects an individual’s right to remain silent. If you were pulled over for a possible DUI, it is crucial that you exercise this right. It is not advisable to make any statements to the police. Do not try to talk your way out of a DUI arrest.
Remember, police officers are investigators — their job is to look for information that can be used against you in court. You should always ask to speak to an Orlando DUI defense lawyer before making any statements.

Am I Required to Take a Breathalyzer Test in Florida?

Florida has an ‘implied consent’ law. Under this law, all drivers are required to submit to a breathalyzer test when asked to do so at a DUI stop. You consented to this when you obtained your license. If you refuse to do so, you will face the automatic suspension of your driver’s license. You should contact a DUI refusal lawyer immediately. Action can still be taken to protect your rights.  

Do I Have to Take Other Types of Field Sobriety Tests in Florida?

Beyond a breath test, you may also be asked to take other types of field sobriety tests (FSTs) at a traffic stop. For example, you may be asked to take the horizontal gaze nystagmus, where the officer will move their finger back and forth and watch your eye movement.
Alternatively, you may be asked to do the one-legged stand. These tests are far more challenging than many people realize. In Florida, you are not required to participate in these types of field sobriety tests. There are serious questions about their reliability.

Will I Lose My License If Arrested for Drunk Driving?

If you are arrested for intoxicated driving in Florida, your license will be automatically suspended. Indeed, you will face the administrative suspension of your license well before you get your day in court. Do not accept this fate.
You have ten days to challenge the administrative suspension. By doing so, you can preserve your license. As ten days is a very short period of time, defendants should not wait to contact an Orlando DUI attorney.

Can You Go to Jail for a First-Time DUI in Florida?

Yes. A first-time DUI conviction in Florida could result in as much as six months in jail.
That may come on top of other penalties as well — potentially including the suspension of a driver’s license, significant fines, and increased insurance costs. Of course, not every defendant goes to jail following a first-time DUI arrest.
While this is a very serious criminal charge, you still have options available. It is crucial that you seek professional legal guidance as soon as possible. Contact an Orlando DUI defense lawyer who can help protect your rights and freedom.