Kevin Hayslett, of Carlson, Meissner, Hart & Hayslett, P.A., Explains Florida’s New Rules on Administrative Suspension of a Drivers License after a DUI Arrest
Tampa Bay, Florida (PRWEB) September 17, 2013 -- Kevin Hayslett, Tampa Bay's Prominent Criminal Law Attorney, Explains Florida’s New Rules on Administrative Suspension of a Drivers License after a DUI Arrest
Knowing the new state guidelines is important if you have been charged with DUI
Kevin Hayslett, The Attorney to the Stars, of the Tampa Bay law firm of Carlson Meissner Hart & Hayslett, P.A., discusses new procedures that became effective in Florida on July 1, 2013, regarding the reinstatement of a suspended drivers license after a DUI arrest.
In 2011, more than 55,000 people were arrested for DUI in Florida and more than 33,000 were convicted of DUI, or driving under the influence. A DUI conviction can permanently alter the course of one’s life. Because a conviction can stay on a criminal record for 75 years in Florida, it can have a serious impact on employment and school opportunities. DUI convictions can also result in a suspended drivers license and can significantly increase auto insurance costs.
Under Florida Statute, s.316.193, a person is guilty of "driving under the influence" if the person is driving, or is in physical control of a vehicle while under the influence of alcoholic beverages, chemical substances or controlled substances that causes the person’s normal faculties to be impaired. A driver with a blood-alcohol level (BAC) of 0.08 is considered to be driving under the influence. DUI convictions are punishable by fine or imprisonment.
Florida drivers arrested for DUI must navigate both a lengthy administrative process before the Department of Motor Vehicles to regain their driver’s license, and face a daunting criminal proceeding in court to determine culpability on the DUI charge. These often occur simultaneously.
Effective July 1, 2013, under Florida Statute s.322.2615, the rules for administrative suspension of a driver’s license changed. Drivers charged with DUI in Florida now have the following options:
1. Request a formal or informal review of the license suspension at the Department of Motor Vehicles; or
2. Request a review of eligibility for a business purpose only license (also called a hardship license) at the Department of Motor Vehicles.
The decision of which option to pursue must be made within the first 10 days after the DUI arrest when the notice of suspension is issued. This decision should be made with full knowledge of the potential consequences of both choices.
Attorney Kevin Hayslett helps Florida drivers charged with DUI evaluate their options related to the administrative license suspension, and provides a strong defense in criminal proceedings. Mr. Hayslett provides legal representation in more than 500 DUI cases annually and has the experience and know-how to effectively navigate the labyrinth of procedures following a DUI arrest.
"We encourage everyone to stay safe. Utilize a designated driver or taxi cab, drink responsibly and never drive under the influence. If you have been arrested for DUI, your best course of action is to retain a skilled DUI attorney to mitigate potentially serious consequences." said Mr. Hayslett.
For additional information on DUI and license suspension in Florida, consult the Florida statute at: http://www.flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/2011/322.2615
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
About Carlson, Meissner, Hart & Hayslett , P.A.
The law firm of Carlson, Meissner, Hart & Hayslett P.A. was founded in 1971 by attorneys Ed Carlson and Paul Meissner. For more than four decades, they have been committed to protecting the injured and defending the accused. Their attorneys have established a solid reputation of case success throughout Florida, providing strong legal representation, easy accessibility and a high level of dependability. A client-centered approach ensures that clients know what is happening as their case progresses, and understand their options every step of the way. With a focus on personal injury, they help victims of auto accidents, slip and falls and wrongful death accidents. The firm is well-known for their innovative criminal defense work, defending both local and high-profile clients. Attorney and Partner Kevin Hayslett is widely recognized as The Attorney to the Stars, providing strong legal representation for notable celebrities and dignitaries throughout Florida. The firm also handles social security disability, workers compensation, divorce, family law and immigration cases. They offer free initial consultations and have five convenient Tampa Bay Area locations. Attorneys are available 24/7 for emergencies. Count on the legal team of Carlson, Meissner, Hart & Hayslett, P.A. to be there, fighting for you, protecting your rights. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 877-728-9653 or visit their website at http://www.CarlsonMeissner.com
MaryAnn Bounacos, Carlson, Meissner, Hart & Hayslett, P.A., http://www.carlsonmeissner.com, +1 727-443-1562, [email protected]
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