3 Reasons to Hire a Tampa DUI Defense Attorney When Facing a DUI Charge in Hillsborough County

Whether you plan to plead guilty or no contest to a DUI, or you want to fight the charges, a DUI defense attorney in Tampa can help make the process easier. Although you can be appointed a public defender, chances are their caseload is large and their expertise in defending DUIs is lacking. That’s why you need help from a DUI defense attorney in Tampa with Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan.

Reason #1: Your Sobriety Tests May Be Inadmissible

If you’ve been administered a field sobriety test or a breathalyzer test, it’s important that law enforcement not only performed these tests correctly, but analyzed them properly as well. You might be surprised to learn that in many instances, law enforcement tests are simply not accurate.

The Southern California Research Institute, sponsored by NHTSA, conducted extensive research associated with the proper administration and reliability of field sobriety testing in DUI cases. Relying on these studies, the federal government has since concluded:

  • The “Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus” test results will be wrong 23% of the time.
  • The “Walk & Turn” test results will be wrong 32% of the time.
  • The “One Leg Stand” test results will be wrong 35% of the time.

Note: These statistics were secured using “ideal” testing conditions. The SCRI-NHTSA study conceded that not having ideal testing conditions would further reduce the percentage of reliability of results.

Having one of our Hillsborough County DUI defense attorneys review your field sobriety test results and breathalyzer results could be imperative in uncovering defenses in your case.

Reason #2: Florida Law is Complex & You’ll Have Deadlines

Florida has a reputation for being tough on DUIs. Because of that, the laws in Florida regarding DUI are complex. Aside from the legality of the field sobriety test and breathalyzer, there are specific deadlines you must meet. For example, you may need to adhere to the “10 day rule” to challenge a license suspension, and there are time limits to secure a hardship license as well.

A Tampa DUI defense attorney will help make sure you meet all deadlines necessary while still helping you navigate the complexities of Florida law.

Reason #3: Getting a Head Start on Your Case Can Help

When it comes to handling your DUI, you don’t want to wait for the courts to make the first move. Hiring an experienced Hillsborough County DUI defense attorney will help make sure that all avenues are explored for your defense. Just because you blew over the legal limit doesn’t necessarily mean you are saddled with the results for life. Our team at Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan may be able to have your charges reduced to reckless driving and can keep your case moving forward efficiently.

If you’re facing a DUI arrest, contact Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan.

Request a FREE consultation today by giving us a call at (727) 578-0303, or submitting our consultation request form.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.

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