Musca Law Answers The Top 5 FAQs About DUI
At Musca Law in Palm Beach County, Florida, the legal team have prepared answers to some of the most frequently asked questions by individuals involved in DUI matters.
Online, August 28, 2012 (Newswire.com) - With the holiday season quickly approaching, many people will be attending parties and other functions where alcohol will be consumed. Inevitably, inebriated attendees at these events are often faced with the choice of whether to drive home or not. This may result in a person looking for information about DUI charges, and what to do in cases involving alcohol and driving.
At Musca Law in Palm Beach County, Florida, the legal team have prepared answers to some of the most frequently asked questions by individuals involved in DUI matters.
Question 1
When should someone hire a Palm Beach DUI attorney?
A DUI attorney should be hired as soon as a one is charged with a DUI. One might also want to hire a DUI lawyer if being questioned or held regarding an alcohol-related crime. Always make sure rights are protected. Do not rely on law enforcement officers or prosecuting attorneys to protect rights.
Question 2
When is a DHSMV hearing needed?
In the State of Florida, there is an administrative process that takes place alongside the judicial process. A Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FDHSMV) administrative hearing regarding a driver's license is handled separately from a criminal case. One must act quickly. After a DUI arrest, there are only 10 days to schedule one. A lawyer can be a representative at this hearing and can help get the best possible outcome.
Question 3
What's the difference between a BUI and a DUI?
The law regarding driving while intoxicated (DUI) and boating while intoxicated (BUI) are similar. Because the State of Florida has so many navigable waters, it has a separate Florida Code violation for drunk boaters and drunk drivers of vehicles. The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit for both charges is .08. Penalties escalate if anyone was injured or killed as a result of the incident.
Question 4
What are the penalties for a first DUI conviction?
DUI penalties vary for each conviction and with the individual circumstances of each case. Vehicles are automatically impounded for 10 days. For a first DUI conviction, a fine up to $2,100 may be imposed, plus costs for court and prosecution, with up to 12 months in jail. The mandatory minimums are 6 months' probation, 50 hours of community service and 6 months driver's license suspension. Other requirements include random testing, a victim impact panel and not possessing or consuming alcohol.
Question 5
Can one apply for a hardship license if a driver's license was suspended for DUI?
A hardship license allows one to drive to and from school or the office and in certain household situations. The restricted privilege is granted by a judge on a case-by-case basis, and only when certain requirements are met.
Musca Law Bio
The DUI attorneys at Musca Law provide aggressive defense for individuals in Palm Beach who have been arrested and charged with drunk driving.
The practice of DUI defense requires lawyers who are not only thorough but are committed to their client's needs as well, two features which are characteristic of the attorneys at Musca Law. When choosing Musca Law for representation, individuals will be assigned a DUI lawyer who will fully understand the legal requirements. Most clients come to the firm in a fearful and apprehensive state, but after initial consultation with their DUI defense attorney, much of these negative feelings are relieved.
The harsh reality many individuals face after being charged with DUI in Palm Beach is that their freedom is at stake. The prospect of losing freedom can be overwhelming but one thing is certain: the outlook will significantly improve once a qualified and experienced DUI lawyer is working on behalf of the client. Jail time, heavy fines, driver license suspension, and an increase in auto insurance rates are the most common penalties, all of which can be addressed by the lawyer in court.
For those who are looking for more information about dealing with a DUI, they can visit Musca Law at their website , or the firm can be reached by phone at (561) 346-9101.
