Arrested for DUI in Broward County? Here’s What Happens Next
If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Fort Lauderdale or anywhere in Broward County, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what comes next. Florida takes DUI offenses seriously, and the legal process can move quickly. Here’s a clear, step-by-step breakdown of what to expect after a DUI arrest and how a skilled defense attorney can help you navigate it.
Step 1: Immediate Driver’s License Suspension
Upon arrest for DUI, if you:
-
Refuse a breath/blood/urine test OR
-
Blow over the legal limit of .08% BAC
your driver’s license is automatically suspended by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV).
You’ll receive a temporary permit valid for 10 days. During this time, you must act fast to request a formal review hearing if you want to fight the administrative suspension.
Quick Tip: You have only 10 calendar days to request this hearing. If you miss the deadline, the suspension stands—even if you beat the criminal DUI case later.
Step 2: Booking and Bail
After arrest, you’ll be taken to jail for processing and booking. Most people charged with DUI are:
-
Held overnight
-
Released once their BAC drops below .05
-
Or allowed to post bail or bond (usually between $500–$1,000)
Once released, you’ll be given a court date—typically your arraignment.
Step 3: DUI Arraignment
Your first court appearance is called an arraignment. This is where you’ll be:
-
Informed of the formal charges
-
Asked to enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest)
If you hire an attorney before this date, they can appear on your behalf and enter a not guilty plea—often sparing you the stress of attending.
Step 4: Pre-Trial Hearings and Motions
This stage involves:
-
Discovery (review of police reports, videos, breath results)
-
Filing motions to suppress evidence (illegal stop, faulty breathalyzer, etc.)
-
Negotiations with the prosecution
Many DUI cases are resolved during this phase—either through dismissal or plea agreements. The strength of your defense will determine the direction.
Step 5: Trial (If Needed)
If no agreement is reached and you maintain a plea of not guilty, your case may proceed to trial.
DUI trials in Florida are usually heard by a six-person jury. The prosecution must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that you were impaired or had an unlawful BAC while driving.
Your defense may include:
-
Challenging the accuracy of the breath test
-
Questioning the legality of the stop or arrest
-
Arguing lack of impairment or alternate causes for behavior
An experienced DUI attorney will present evidence, cross-examine officers, and fight for acquittal.
Step 6: Sentencing and Penalties
If convicted, sentencing depends on:
-
Whether it’s a first-time DUI or repeat offense
-
Your BAC level
-
Whether there was an accident, injury, or minor in the car
First Offense DUI Penalties in Florida May Include:
-
Up to 6 months in jail
-
Fines between $500 and $1,000
-
License suspension (6 months to 1 year)
-
DUI School (12+ hours)
-
Community service
-
Vehicle impoundment
-
Ignition interlock device (in some cases)
How a DUI Lawyer Can Help
Hiring a Fort Lauderdale DUI lawyer early gives you the best chance of minimizing—or even avoiding—these penalties. At The Law Office of Michael Glasser, P.A., we:
-
Fight to prevent license suspension
-
Challenge the legality of the arrest and test procedures
-
Pursue dismissal or reduction of charges
-
Represent you in DMV hearings and court
-
Help you apply for hardship licenses
With over 15 years of DUI defense experience in Broward County, Michael Glasser knows how to strategically challenge the prosecution’s case and protect your record.
Don’t Wait – Your Future Is On the Line
A DUI charge isn’t just a traffic ticket—it’s a criminal offense with long-term consequences. Whether this is your first DUI or you’ve been through this before, the right legal representation can make a significant difference.
Contact The Law Office of Michael Glasser, P.A. Today
📞 Call (954) 242-1951 or contact us online for a free, confidential DUI case review.
