Frequently Asked Questions

When should I hire a Sarasota DUI lawyer?

You should hire a Sarasota DUI lawyer immediately when you have been charged with a Sarasota DUI. Call a Sarasota DUI attorney right away when you are being interrogated or detained by law enforcement officials. We can protect your legal rights.

What are the penalties for my first DUI conviction?

DUI penalties vary depending the individual circumstances of each case. The number of convictions changes the minimum penalties given for each violation. On the first offense, your car is impounded for 10 days. When convicted, you may be face fines up to $2,100, plus prosecution and court costs. You will face up to 1 year of jail time. Required minimums are as follows: probation, 6 months; community service, 50 hours; and, suspended license to drive, 6 months. Other first offense requirements include random testing, no possession or consumption of alcohol and a victim impact panel.

Can I get a hardship license if my license was suspended for DUI?

You can apply for a hardship license when specific requirements are met. They are granted by a judge on an individual basis. This license will allow you to drive the vehicle back and forth to work or school in certain situations. A Sarasota DUI attorney can help you determine if and when you are able to apply.

What is an interlock ignition device and do I need one on my car?

If you have been convicted of DUI, you may or may not be required to participate in the Florida Interlock Ignition Program after serving your sentence. The interlock ignition device is installed in every vehicle you own or regularly use. Each time you or anyone planning to drive your vehicle gets in, you must first blow a breath sample into the device. You are required to repeat the breath test throughout the trip. If this is not done properly or successfully, you will have a program violation.

How long will an interlock ignition device stay on my vehicle?

The Florida Interlock Ignition Program will be required from 6 to 24 months, depending on the number of DUI offenses and individual merits of each case. A judge will determine length of participation in the program. The device is installed at a designated shop. It must be calibrated once a month to avoid a program violation.

Should I schedule an administrative DHSMV hearing?

When you are charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in Florida, it is a 2-part process. The administrative process is handled separately from your criminal case. You have only 10 days from the date of your Sarasota DUI arrest to schedule a hearing with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FDHSMV). Yes, you should schedule a hearing, and be sure to bring a skilled, qualified Sarasota DUI attorney with you. What happens at the hearing will play a critical role in the rest of your case.

Is there a difference between a DUI and a BUI?

There are several similarities between driving under the influence and boating under the influence (BUI). There are, however, separate Florida Code sections for operating watercraft under the influence of alcohol. DUI is in a land vehicle; BUI is on watercraft, which includes boats. Both have a minimum blood alcohol content (BAC) violation level of .08.

What types of DUI cases does Musca Law handle?

Musca Law handles all kinds of DUI cases, including juvenile DUI, commercial DUI, boating under the influence, DUI manslaughter and controlled substance DUI. Contact our Sarasota DUI attorneys today to make an appointment. We offer a free consultation in person or by phone. We can help protect your legal rights while getting you the best possible results for your case.

Does Musca Law cover other criminal charges too?

Yes. We cover all types of criminal charges; both misdemeanors and felonies. We defend all criminal cases as vigorously and expertly as our Sarasota DUI cases. We handle charges for drug trafficking and possession, traffic violations, white collar crimes, theft, murder and sex crimes. Whether the charges are for a single crime or there are multiple charges involved, we can help you.