Jacksonville DUI Stops
The Jacksonville drunk driving attorneys at Robert Shafer & Associates, P.A. are fluent in Florida law surrounding DUI offenses and can satisfactorily represent you. Whether you are guilty of a DUI or not, law enforcement officers do not have cart blanche when it comes to what they are allowed to do when they stop you. You have certain rights and we will zealously fight to protect them.
What are law enforcement officers allowed to do?
If you are stopped for a DUI law enforcement officers are legally allowed to carry out the following actions:
• Search your vehicle if there is suspicion of illegal activity
• Search your vehicle if the officer suspects his or her safety is in jeopardy
• Conduct a search of any occupants of your vehicle if there is suspicion of criminal activity or illegal paraphernalia
• Collect bodily samples such as urine, blood or hair
• Ask you questions surrounding possible alcohol or drug consumption, as long as you are not in formal custody
• Administer a sobriety test such as a Breathalyzer test
• Take you to a hospital to have blood or urine tests performed
You have every right to refuse to take a sobriety test; however, keep in mind all states maintain implied consent laws which means you are obligated to submit to a sobriety test if an officer believes you are intoxicated. If you do refuse, the penalties are sometimes more severe than if you fail a sobriety test. Refusing will get you a suspended driver’s license for up to one year. Additionally, your refusal will be utilized to increase the penalties you face if you are convicted of a DUI.
Be Informed
The Jacksonville drunk driving attorneys at Robert Shafer & Associates, P.A. will gladly explain the Florida laws governing drunk driving and your rights. To schedule your initial free consultation, call us at 866-681-9544 or complete our quick contact web form. We welcome the opportunity to share our vast knowledge of DUI laws and educate you regarding the specifics of your DUI case.
