🚨 Step One: Stay Calm and Remain Silent

A DUI arrest can be intimidating, but what you say—or don’t say—can have a lasting impact on your case. The most important thing you can do immediately after an arrest is to stay calm and avoid answering questions without a lawyer present. Anything you say can be used against you later in court.

While it may feel natural to explain yourself to police officers, it’s best to politely invoke your right to remain silent and request legal counsel right away. This ensures you don’t unintentionally share information that could harm your defense.

⚖️ Step Two: Understand the Seriousness of DUI Charges in Florida

In Florida, a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) conviction can lead to hefty fines, jail time, and a suspended driver’s license—even for a first-time offense. Repeat or aggravated DUIs can result in longer jail sentences, mandatory ignition interlock devices, and felony charges.

Florida law defines DUI as operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher for drivers 21 and over—or 0.02% for drivers under 21. However, even without a high BAC reading, prosecutors may claim impairment based on your behavior or field sobriety results. That’s why you need a lawyer who can challenge every piece of evidence from day one.

🔍 Step Three: Contact a DUI Defense Attorney Immediately

Once you’re released, your next move should be contacting an experienced DUI defense attorney in Coral Gables. Early intervention gives your lawyer the opportunity to:

• Request and review dashcam and bodycam footage
• Examine breathalyzer calibration and test accuracy
• Challenge improper police procedures
• Represent you at the DMV hearing to protect your license
• Begin building a defense before formal charges are filed

Attorney Matthew Meyers of MPM Law brings over 15 years of legal experience to every case. With a background that combines prosecution insight and defense expertise, he knows how to spot weaknesses in the government’s case—and leverage them in your favor.

🚗 Step Four: Protect Your Driving Privileges

In Florida, you only have 10 days after a DUI arrest to request a hearing with the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) to challenge your license suspension. Failing to act within this short window could result in losing your driving privileges automatically.

Your attorney can help you file the necessary paperwork and fight to maintain your ability to drive legally while your case is pending.

🧠 Step Five: Let Your Attorney Build a Strategic Defense

From questioning the accuracy of a breathalyzer to exposing procedural errors, a skilled attorney can identify key flaws that may lead to a dismissal, reduced charge, or acquittal.

Matthew Meyers meticulously examines every phase of the investigation, from your traffic stop to the field sobriety test, ensuring that your constitutional rights were respected. His goal is clear: to minimize penalties, protect your record, and help you move forward with confidence.

💪 Get Strong Representation From a Trusted Coral Gables DUI Attorney

A DUI arrest doesn’t have to define your future—but the steps you take immediately afterward can make all the difference. At MPM Law Attorney Matthew Meyers provides aggressive, detailed, and compassionate defense for clients throughout Coral Gables, Miami, and South Florida.