Being arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Coral Gables can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. The decisions you make in the minutes, hours, and days following your DUI arrest can significantly impact the outcome of your case. At  MPM Law  , we specialize in DUI defense in Miami and Coral Gables , helping clients navigate the legal system and fight for the best possible outcome. If you or a loved one has been arrested for DUI in Coral Gables , follow this step-by-step guide to protect your rights, your driver’s license, and your future. Step 1: Stay Calm and Cooperate (But Know Your Rights!) The moment you see the flashing red and blue lights, your reaction matters . Here’s what to do: Pull over safely – Signal, slow down, and pull over in a safe location. Remain calm and polite – Arguing with the police can make the situation worse. Limit what you say – You have the right to remain silent. Avoid admitting to drinking, even if you think it’s harmless (e.g., “I only had one beer”). Example: If an officer asks, “Have you been drinking?” you can politely respond: “I prefer not to answer any questions without an attorney.” Step 2: Decide Whether to Take a Breathalyzer or Field Sobriety Tests In Florida, DUI suspects are often asked to take field sobriety tests (walking in a straight line, standing on one leg, etc.) and a breathalyzer test to determine Blood Alcohol Content (BAC). Field Sobriety Tests: These are optional in Florida. You can politely refuse them since they are highly subjective and can be challenged in court. Breathalyzer Test: Under Florida’s Implied Consent Law , refusing a breath test can lead to an automatic one-year driver’s license suspension , even if you are not convicted of DUI. Example: If you refuse the breathalyzer test and it’s your first offense, you may face a license suspension but avoid giving prosecutors critical evidence against you. However, refusal could also be used against you in court. Step 3: Contact a Miami DUI Attorney Immediately The most important step after a DUI arrest is contacting a DUI lawyer in Miami or Coral Gables as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can: Review your arrest for police errors or rights violations Represent you in court and at DMV hearings to protect your license Challenge the evidence, such as breath test results Example: If police pulled you over without probable cause , your lawyer may be able to get your charges dismissed. Step 4: Request a DMV Hearing Within 10 Days After a DUI arrest in Coral Gables , you have only 10 days to request a formal hearing with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) to challenge your license suspension. If you don’t request a hearing, your license will be automatically suspended. A DUI attorney can represent you at the DMV hearing and fight to keep your license. Example: If it’s your first DUI arrest, you may qualify for a hardship license, allowing you to drive for work or essential needs. Step 5: Gather Important Evidence The stronger your defense , the better your chances of reducing or dismissing your DUI charges. Start collecting: Your arrest details – Where and when you were pulled over, what you were doing, and what the officer said. Witness statements – If anyone was with you, their testimony could help. Medical conditions – Some conditions, like acid reflux or diabetes , can falsely raise your BAC levels. Example: If a faulty breathalyzer machine was used, your lawyer could challenge the results and potentially get your case dismissed. Step 6: Avoid Talking About Your DUI Case Do not: Discuss your arrest on social media. Talk about the case with friends or family (except your lawyer). Try to “explain” your side to the police or prosecutors – anything you say can be used against you. Example: Posting “I wasn’t even that drunk!” on Facebook can be used by prosecutors to argue that you admitted to drinking before driving. Step 7: Show Up to All Court Dates and Follow Legal Advice Missing a court date can result in a warrant for your arrest. Dress professionally and be respectful in court. Follow your attorney’s advice on whether to take a plea deal or fight your charges. Example: If it’s a first-time DUI, an attorney may help you enter a DUI diversion program that keeps the charge off your record. Why Choose  MPM Law  for Your DUI Defense? At  MPM Law  , we specialize in DUI defense in Coral Gables, Miami, and throughout Florida. We have a proven track record of helping clients: ✔ Avoid jail time ✔ Reduce DUI charges to reckless driving ✔ Challenge breathalyzer results ✔ Fight for license reinstatement At  MPM Law  , we have a proven track record of getting drug possession charges reduced or dismissed . Contact  MPM Law  at  305-330-5445  . Don’t risk your freedom, future, and reputation . Let Matthew Myers and the  MPM Law  team fight for you.