Fort Walton Beach DUI Lawyer

Anchors Smith Grimsley PLC, or ASG, is comprised of twelve lawyers all of whom have deep ties to the local community. When you have been charged with anything, you want to have the best legal counsel representing you that you can. For legal counsel that understands your situation, give us a call. Our cost-effective legal representation is consistent with our high standards of excellence.

Contact our Experienced FWB DUI Lawyers:

Timothy W. Shaw

Michael Flowers

850-863-4064

  • Our seasoned team of attorneys specializes in DUI defense, boasting comprehensive knowledge and extensive experience in handling DUI cases specific to Fort Walton Beach. We understand the complexities of Florida's DUI laws, and our meticulous approach ensures a thorough examination of each case's unique circumstances.

  • DUI charges can have profound implications, from potential license suspension to hefty fines and even incarceration. Our DUI lawyers employ a strategic and personalized approach, meticulously analyzing the details of your arrest, scrutinizing the validity of sobriety tests, and challenging evidence to craft a robust defense tailored to your situation.

  • Navigating the legal system in the aftermath of a DUI charge demands skilled navigation of intricate legal procedures. Anchors Smith Grimsley's attorneys possess the expertise and courtroom experience necessary to guide you through every step of the legal process, advocating for your rights and working diligently to secure the best possible outcome.

Fort Walton Beach DUI Attorney

If you have been arrested and charged with a DUI, you will need the assistance of a lawyer. Driving under the influence is one of the most common arrests made in the FWB and Okaloosa County areas. You may think that it will not be a big deal, but DUI penalties are often not what you are expecting.Your first impulse might be to plead guilty and get it over with. Not so fast. There are options for you to explore. The only way you will know this, is with an experienced DUI defense attorney on your side. Our Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa County DUI lawyers are here to give you the help you need.Our experienced DUI attorneys have handled countless local DUI cases and our first goal is to protect the rights of every client. If you have been charged with drunk driving, you do have options. Let us discuss with you what they are.

Avoiding a Lifetime Punishment for DUI

You may not have intended to drink so much, but now you have been charged with drunk driving. It is always a bad decision. Anyone found operating a vehicle in Florida with a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher will be arrested. You may have consented to a breath or blood test, failed it, and now assume you are guilty. Actually, at this point, you have been suspected of drunk driving. Nothing has been proven yet. This is why it is so important to discuss your options with an experienced DUI defense attorney. There may be avenues for you to pursue that you are not aware of. You do not want a drunk driving conviction on your record, as it can negatively influence and limit your opportunities in the future. Not to mention the stress that can come with the entire process. A qualified DUI defense lawyer in FWB will help you to look at all of your options. There are other sides to the coin that we can discuss with you. For instance:

  • Was the breathalyzer used correctly and properly maintained?

  • Were the field sobriety tests conducted correctly?

  • Were the reports properly documented?

  • Was proper procedure by law enforcement officers followed to the letter?

  • Did law enforcement have probable cause for pulling you over?

  • Were there any violations of your Miranda rights? Is there any evidence that you were illegally arrested?

  • Do you have existing medical conditions that would affect your alcohol consumption?

  • Is there a thorough timeline for any evidence collected against you and what happened to it?

A DUI charge is not as straightforward as it seems. It is worth working with a qualified, skilled DUI attorney to minimize the impact this will have on you.

  • Beyond legal representation, our role extends to providing compassionate advocacy and unwavering support to our clients. We understand the stress and uncertainty that accompany DUI charges, and we prioritize clear communication and guidance, ensuring you are informed and empowered throughout the legal proceedings.

  • We recognize the potential life-altering impact a DUI charge can have on your personal and professional life. Our DUI defense attorneys' adept negotiation skills often lead to reduced charges or alternative resolutions, aiming to minimize the impact on your future endeavors.

  • Facing DUI charges in Fort Walton Beach is a serious matter that necessitates professional legal guidance. At Anchors Smith Grimsley, we are dedicated to providing you with a robust defense strategy and steadfast support. Your rights and best interests remain our top priority.

What to Expect for Your First Offense

An experienced Fort Walton Beach DUI attorney will want to know if this is your first offense. If you have never been arrested before or you have never been stopped and detained for a DUI, this can be a very frightening experience for you. You are probably unaware of the process and many people make the mistake of just trying to put it all behind them as quickly as possible by pleading guilty. This is the worst thing you can do. People who are arrested on DUI are not always sure what charges they are facing. Therefore, often they will listen to the law enforcement officers as they lay it all out for them. A lawyer can provide unbiased advice that can improve your current situation and your future. This is why you need a FWB DUI lawyer on your side. We will protect your interests and give back the future you were looking forward to. First offense DUI charges often include:

  • Fines and court costs up to $1,000

  • License revocation up to 180 days

  • Community service

  • Probation

  • DUI school

  • Vehicle Impound

  • Victim Impact Panel

  • Potentially some jail time 

Drinking and Boating Consequences

In Florida, there is a boating under the influence law that is almost equal to being arrested and charged as a DUI. Because Florida is home to so many marinas and boating locations, people are able to operate their boats most months of the year. However, if you boat and drink, you may not be aware that statutes await you in a court of law. If you or a loved one have been arrested when boating under the influence, you should seek legal counsel right away. Our FWB DUI lawyers are here to steer you through the rough waters of a possible criminal offense. Boating under the influence is a serious crime. The same blood alcohol content level applies as for driving a vehicle on a road under the influence, which is .08%. Penalties for boating under the influence can include:

  • Fines up to $1,000.

  • Incarceration in jail up to six months.

  • Vessel impoundment (10 days).

  • Community service.

  • Probation.

The time to contact a DUI defense attorney is right after you have been arrested. At ASG, our criminal defense team will go to work for you immediately. We have the experience and the experience to represent you in all manner of DUI penalties including:

  • Driving while intoxicated (DWI)

  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI)

  • Boating under the influence (BUI)

  • Vehicular homicide

  • Reckless driving

  • Habitual offender violations

Consult Anchors Smith Grimsley for DUI Defense Support

If you find yourself confronting DUI charges in Fort Walton Beach, don't face them alone. Contact Anchors Smith Grimsley for a confidential consultation today. Our DUI lawyers are committed to providing you with the experience, advocacy, and support needed to navigate the complexities of DUI defense, ensuring the protection of your rights and future.

Our Fort Walton Beach DUI defense attorneys deal with DUI cases every day. We are familiar with the processes, the courts, as well as your options. Let our team of lawyers assist you with your DUI charge. Our criminal defense team is ready and waiting to help you. Contact us today. We also serve Destin, Miramar Beach, Crestview, and surrounding areas.