Our client was a CDL driver’s license holder. While visiting Florida, he was stopped for a traffic violation and arrested for Driving Under the Influence. He declined to submit to field sobriety exercises and breath testing. A conviction for DUI would have been a career killer. After weighing his options, our client elected to have his case resolved with a trial. Mr. Sullivan defended the client against the allegations and raised reasonable doubts as to his guilt. Ultimately, a verdict of Not Guilty was rendered and our client was able to maintain his employment.

These operations occur numerous times a year and consist of large-scale patrol units that pull over drivers suspected to be under the influence. During these stops, officers will test your blood alcohol content no matter the reason and file charges according to the results. Often times, the “wolf packs” will look to pull over as many drivers as possible on those evenings to increase the chances of locating and arresting impaired drivers. Common reasons for traffic stops include expired registration, stopping in front of a stop bar at a light or stop sign, or failing to maintain a single lane.

If you are pulled over by one of these wolf pack patrols, it is essential to know your rights when it comes to submitting to a breathalyzer test and other field sobriety tests (FSTs). In Florida, the FSTs are not mandatory, but if you refuse, you risk the officer making a decision to arrest and charge you with a DUI based on various other factors.

Our seasoned attorneys received the same certifications as Pinellas County law enforcement officers for both the breathalyzer test and field sobriety tests. We are able to analyze the results of those tests and determine if they were administered correctly and fairly.

When choosing to represent yourself after being accused of Driving Under the Influence, you miss out on the valuable expertise that Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan P.A has to offer. 

Our holistic team approach means that each attorney in our office works together on every case, providing various perspectives and backgrounds that ultimately build a sound strategy for your defense. Some of the most common possible defenses used for DUI are Improper Stop, where officers have a lack of probable cause, Mistake of Fact, where the individual has an honest belief that they are not intoxicated, and inaccuracy of the breathalyzer test or field sobriety test. This level of support from a team of dedicated attorneys is unmatched, and you can have confidence in knowing that your defense strategy will remain strong throughout the case.

Most commonly associated with alcohol, a DUI charge can also result from driving while using an array of prescription medicines. Mixing prescription drugs and alcohol can result in stronger side effects of either substance. One drink while on strong cold medicine could cause impairment equivalent to multiple drinks.

When taking medication prescribed by a doctor, talk with them about how the prescriptions will impact your day-to-day functions. Understanding the dosage prescribed, the time it takes for the drug to work through your system, and how your body will react are all questions you should know the answer to. 

Knowing and following the recommendations associated with all prescription medications is vital to being a safe driver and avoiding a DUI charge.