DUI / DUI Arrest Blog

Refusing a DUI Test in Florida: What It Means for Your Case

Kawecki Law2026-01-15T12:53:16+00:00Drivers sometimes believe that refusing a DUI test will protect them. The idea sounds simple. No test means no proof. In Florida, the situation is far more complicated. State law has strict rules on how refusal is treated, and the consequences reach farther than most people expect. A traffic stop can escalate quickly, and one decision at the roadside may shape the entire case. Learning how Florida handles testing refusal gives drivers a clearer picture of what lies ahead. The...

Florida Domestic Violence Laws: Arrests, Charges, and Defense

Kawecki Law2025-12-12T11:32:15+00:00Domestic violence accusations in Florida trigger an immediate legal response. Many people do not realize how quickly these cases escalate. A single call to law enforcement can lead to an arrest, strict court restrictions, and long-term consequences, even if the situation was heated but nonviolent. Florida lawmakers have created a system that moves fast, and that pace can overwhelm anyone accused of a domestic-related offense. How Domestic Violence Accusations Trigger Immediate Action Domestic violence in Florida is not limited to married...

First-Time DUI Diversion Opportunities in Florida Counties

Kawecki Law2025-12-12T11:31:56+00:00A first DUI arrest can feel overwhelming. Many people entering the criminal court system for the first time are confused, anxious, and unsure of what comes next. Florida takes impaired driving seriously, yet some counties recognize that not every first-time offender needs the harshest penalties. Instead, several jurisdictions offer early intervention or diversion pathways that allow eligible participants to complete structured requirements in exchange for avoiding a DUI conviction. These programs are not available everywhere and often change based...

Driving Without a Valid License in Florida: What Happens Next?

Kawecki Law2025-12-12T11:31:42+00:00Driving is a daily necessity for many people in Florida. Work, school, medical appointments, and family responsibilities often depend on reliable transportation. When a driver is stopped and found to be behind the wheel without a valid license, the situation can escalate quickly. Many individuals are surprised at how serious the consequences can be. Florida law takes unlicensed driving seriously, and even a first offense can disrupt a person’s life in unexpected ways. How Florida Defines Driving Without a Valid...

Defense Tactics for Felony Offenses in Florida Criminal Courts

Kawecki Law2025-12-12T11:30:53+00:00Facing a felony charge in Florida places a person in an extremely serious position within the criminal justice system. The penalties are harsher, the stakes are higher, and the legal process moves through procedures many defendants have never encountered. A felony conviction can reshape someone’s future, affecting employment, housing, financial stability, and personal relationships. Because of these consequences, a strategic defense is essential. Building an effective felony defense does not rely on a single method. Each case has specific details...

Key Differences Between Misdemeanor and Felony DUI Charges in Florida

Kawecki Law2025-12-12T11:30:26+00:00Driving under the influence is treated seriously in Florida, but not every DUI case is classified the same way. Some remain misdemeanors, while others escalate into felonies. The consequences vary widely, and the difference can shape a person’s life for years. Anyone facing charges needs to understand how the law distinguishes these offenses, how prosecutors evaluate each case, and why the classification matters when preparing a defense. Florida’s DUI framework is detailed and strict. It leaves little room for error,...

Understanding Florida DUI Charges and Your Options

Kawecki Law2025-12-03T14:22:58+00:00 Driving under the influence is a serious charge in Florida, and the path that follows an arrest can feel overwhelming. The laws are strict, the penalties can escalate quickly, and the court process is often unfamiliar. Many people are unsure of what to expect or how to protect their rights after an accusation. A clear understanding of the legal framework can help you make informed decisions and avoid mistakes that may harm your case. How Florida Defines Impaired Driving Florida law...

Understanding Each Stage of the Felony Criminal Process in Florida

Kawecki Law2025-11-20T20:33:16+00:00Facing a felony charge in Florida can feel overwhelming, especially if you have never been through the criminal process before. Each stage comes with its own rules, deadlines, and decisions that can influence the outcome of the case. Understanding how felony cases develop can help individuals know what to expect and what their rights are at every step. While the process may seem complicated, breaking it down into clear phases makes it easier to navigate and prepare. How Felony Charges...

The Importance of Working With a Criminal Defense Attorney for Domestic Violence Allegations

Kawecki Law2025-11-14T17:41:14+00:00Being arrested for domestic violence in Florida is a serious legal matter. These cases are treated with urgency by law enforcement and the courts. Even a first-time charge can carry heavy penalties, including jail time, fines, probation, mandatory counseling, and a permanent criminal record. Florida law defines domestic violence broadly. It includes physical harm, sexual assault, stalking, and threats against family or household members. The consequences extend beyond the courtroom and can affect employment, housing, and child custody. Immediate Steps...

Know Your Rights at DUI Checkpoints in Florida

Kawecki Law2025-11-07T10:44:47+00:00DUI checkpoints, also called sobriety checkpoints, are a common law enforcement tool in Florida. Police set up these checkpoints to detect drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The goal is to improve public safety by preventing impaired driving accidents. While checkpoints are legal under both federal and Florida law, they are subject to strict rules. Officers must follow proper procedures, and drivers still retain important legal rights even when stopped at a checkpoint. Understanding these rights...