DUI and Driver’s License Suspension in Florida: Navigating Administrative Penalties After an Arrest

A DUI arrest in Florida can have immediate and significant consequences, including the suspension of your driver’s license. The administrative license suspension process is separate from criminal proceedings and occurs soon after a DUI arrest. Understanding how this process works and exploring options to contest or mitigate the license suspension is crucial for anyone facing a DUI charge. In this blog post, we will provide essential information about the administrative license suspension process and how to navigate it in Florida.

Administrative License Suspension Process in Florida

In Florida, when a driver is arrested for DUI, their driver’s license is subject to an administrative suspension by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). The suspension is automatic and takes effect immediately, usually on the 10th day after the arrest. The duration of the administrative suspension depends on whether it is a first-time or repeat offense:

• First-Time Offense: The administrative license suspension for a first-time DUI offense is typically for six months.
• Repeat Offenses: For repeat DUI offenses, the administrative suspension can be longer, up to one year or more.

Contesting the Administrative Suspension

After a DUI arrest, you have the right to contest the administrative license suspension through a formal review hearing with the DHSMV. To do this, you must request the hearing within ten days of the arrest. At the hearing, your DUI defense attorney can present arguments and evidence to challenge the suspension, such as:

• Lack of Probable Cause: Your attorney may argue that the arresting officer lacked probable cause to believe you were driving under the influence.
• Faulty Breathalyzer or Blood Test: Your attorney can challenge the accuracy or reliability of the breathalyzer or blood test results used to establish your BAC level.
• Violation of Rights: If your constitutional rights were violated during the arrest, such as improper Miranda warnings or an unlawful search, it can be grounds to contest the suspension.

Mitigating the Administrative Suspension

If contesting the suspension is not feasible or unsuccessful, there may still be options to mitigate the consequences of the administrative suspension:

• Hardship License: In certain circumstances, you may be eligible for a hardship license that allows limited driving privileges, such as driving to work, school, or medical appointments during the suspension period.
• DUI School Enrollment: Enrolling in a DUI school may be a requirement for reinstating your driver’s license after the suspension period.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): In some cases, installing an IID in your vehicle may be a condition for obtaining a hardship license or reinstating your license after the suspension period.

Conclusion

The administrative license suspension process after a DUI arrest in Florida is a critical aspect of the legal process. It is essential to be aware of your rights and the available options for contesting or mitigating the suspension. If you find yourself facing a DUI charge and an impending license suspension, seeking legal counsel promptly is crucial. An experienced DUI defense attorney can guide you through the administrative hearing, present a strong defense, and explore potential options to mitigate the consequences. Remember that everyone has the right to contest an administrative license suspension and seek a fair resolution to their case.