Do you realize that from the moment you are arrested and charged with DUI, time becomes a critical factor?
Did you know that if you took a breathalyzer test and blew a .08 or higher – or if you refused to take the test – your license was suspended at the time of arrest?
Just imagine… You’re on the side of the road somewhere in Lake Worth or Palm Beach Count, shocked by what just happened – and while in handcuffs – you’ve already temporarily lost your license and may lose it for a much longer time.
Do you know you could lose your license for up to 18 months before you even go to court?
Getting arrested for a DUI can be terrifying, both in the moment and afterward when you have sobered up and are scrambling to understand the consequences of your actions.
But that’s where a good DUI lawyer can help.
If convicted of driving under the influence in Florida, you can face serious penalties, including jail time, fines, and the potential of losing your driving privileges.
At The Pakett Law Group, PA, our Lake Worth DUI lawyers understand that your future is at risk. Our goal is to help you limit the consequences of your DUI charge.
The Pakett Law Group, PA is committed to providing our clients with the highest quality representation. With over a decade of legal experience, West Palm Beach criminal defense lawyer Brian T. Pakett and his team of West Palm Beach County criminal lawyers possess a comprehensive understanding of Florida criminal law – which can benefit you in your time of need.
So, what are those consequences?
A DUI conviction can have many potential consequences for you, some of which include:
Potential loss of a job or future employment
Employers today frequently conduct background checks. If a DUI conviction is discovered, it can lead to termination or make it difficult to find a new job. Rightly or wrongly, employers may factor this into a hiring decision, and you may face obstacles in advancing your career.
Potential damage to your reputation
A DUI can tarnish both your personal and professional reputation, affecting relationships and community standing. Having to disclose a DUI to your employer, colleagues, or even your family can be embarrassing and detrimental. Once it’s known, people often don’t forget who had a DUI.
New financial strain
Between fines, legal fees, and increased insurance premiums, a DUI conviction can create a significant financial burden. If your vehicle was damaged, you’ll need to repair or replace it. Additionally, you may be held responsible for damaging someone else’s property.
Unseen family stress
The emotional and financial strain of a DUI can put pressure on family dynamics. Imagine explaining the situation to your spouse, children, or in-laws. When financial strain, potential jail time, and legal hurdles are layered in, it can create tension and difficult conversations.
Possible loss of driving freedom
Beyond jail time, the inability to drive can severely impact your daily life. We take the ability to drive for granted until it’s taken away. Losing your license means having to rely on family, friends, or public transportation just to get to work, school, or run basic errands.
That is why hiring the best DUI lawyer in Lake Worth matters
If you need a skilled DUI lawyer in Lake Worth, schedule a free consultation with The Pakett Law Group. Call 561-318-0531 or email us here.
Not hiring the best DUI lawyer can compound the consequences above.
For example, missing critical filing deadlines could lead to an extended license suspension. Many people don’t realize that Florida has a strict 10-day rule for requesting a DHSMV hearing.
Wait – what is the Florida DUI 10-day rule?
If you want to get your license back, you only have 10 days to file an application with the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) to request a special hearing. If you miss this 10-day window, your license could be suspended for up to 18 months, severely impacting your ability to drive, work, and take care of your family.
Or consider what happens if you hire a lawyer who lacks experience in DUI cases. Choosing an attorney based on a billboard ad or Google search without verifying their qualifications could be disastrous. A lawyer unfamiliar with DUI defense may fail to challenge inaccurate breathalyzer results, investigate the arrest thoroughly, or negotiate effectively with prosecutors. The result? Harsher penalties, longer jail time, and higher fines.
Don’t wait – the 10-day rule is real
If you feel like time is slipping away, we can help.
Don’t let a DUI conviction cost you your job, ruin your reputation, negatively affect your family, and take away your freedom. Taking swift action and hiring a qualified DUI lawyer – like attorney Brian Pakett – can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Click here to see what questions people ask Brian about their criminal defense.
So how does a good DUI attorney help limit the consequences of your DUI charge?
Anyone facing a DUI charge in Lake Worth should ask this question, both of themselves and any attorney they consider hiring.
A good DUI attorney can significantly help limit the consequences of a DUI charge by leveraging their knowledge, experience, and strategic legal skills. When facing potential jail time, financial burdens, and damage to your reputation, protecting your rights and future is crucial.
“Mr. Pakett is an extraordinary lawyer. He’s very detailed in his work & will always do the best on his client’s behalf. He’s attentive & always responds quickly! Hire him if you want to win your case!” – Lorena C.
Here are several ways a skilled DUI lawyer can assist you:
- Challenging the evidence: Your lawyer can scrutinize breathalyzer test results, ensuring the machine was properly calibrated and administered correctly.
- Negotiating plea bargains: They can work to reduce your charge to a lesser offense, minimizing fines and penalties.
- Identifying procedural errors: If your rights were violated during your arrest, a lawyer can challenge the case in court.
- Presenting mitigating factors: A lawyer can argue for reduced penalties based on your character, background, and circumstances.
- Protecting your driving privileges: They can request a DHSMV hearing to fight the license suspension or apply for a hardship license.
- Reducing or avoiding jail time: A strong defense may lead to alternatives such as probation or community service instead of incarceration.
- Managing the court process: Your attorney will handle filings, court appearances, and legal paperwork to prevent costly mistakes.
- Providing emotional and legal support: A knowledgeable lawyer will keep you informed, offering guidance and reassurance through the legal process.
A skilled DUI attorney helps limit the consequences of a DUI charge through years of honed experience. Their expertise can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case, helping you achieve the best possible result given the circumstances. Seeking the assistance of a qualified DUI attorney is crucial in mitigating the impact of DUI charges on your life and family.
If you need a good Lake Worth DUI lawyer, schedule a free consultation with The Pakett Law Group. Call 561-318-0531 or email us here.
The Pakett Law Group, PA is committed to providing clients with top-tier legal representation. With over a decade of legal experience, Lake Worth criminal defense lawyer Brian T. Pakett and his team possess a deep understanding of Florida criminal law and are dedicated to protecting your rights.
Speak Directly to a Criminal Defense Attorney in Lake Worth Today
The bottom line is this: if you’ve been charged with a crime or are under investigation, the best time to hire a criminal defense attorney is immediately. Already arrested? You’re likely to have question too. That’s why we are here.
The earlier you have professional legal representation, the better your chances of avoiding critical mistakes, protecting your rights, and achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
Remember – arrests are common in Florida, the legal consequences are serious, and having a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer is essential to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
If you were charged with a serious crime in Lake Worth or anywhere in the state of Florida, please schedule a free consultation with The Pakett Law Group. You can call 561-318-0531 or email us here.
The Pakett Law Group, PA is committed to providing our clients with the highest quality representation. With over a decade of legal experience, West Palm Beach criminal defense lawyer Brian T. Pakett and his team of West Palm Beach County criminal lawyers possess a comprehensive understanding of Florida criminal law – which can benefit you in your time of need.