In DUI cases in Florida, blood test results often carry significant weight in the final verdict. Judges and juries tend to view them as more reliable than breath tests because of the assumption that laboratory testing means that there was likely no human error. 

However, even the most precise methods can produce flawed results. When mistakes occur during the collection, handling, or testing of a blood sample, they can lead to false or inflated blood alcohol concentration readings. If you are facing a DUI charge, you should consult with one of the top DUI attorneys in Clearwater with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan to set yourself up to achieve the most favorable outcome.

When Blood Tests Are Used in Florida DUI Cases

Blood tests will not be used for every DUI case, as they are typically only used in more serious or complex DUI investigations. Officers may request or require a blood draw in cases involving accidents with injuries, drivers who are unconscious or unable to provide a breath sample, or when there is suspicion of drug impairment. 

Because a blood draw is medically invasive, Florida law sets strict requirements for when and how it can be performed. Officers generally need either the driver’s consent or a valid search warrant, unless specific exceptions apply, such as exigent circumstances in certain crash investigations. That being said, if law enforcement fails to follow proper legal procedures, your results may be eligible to be challenged or excluded from evidence, especially if you work with the best DWI lawyer in Clearwater with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan.

The Most Common Causes of Blood Test Errors

Although blood testing is considered the most accurate method for determining BAC, errors can occur at multiple stages of the process, and even a small mistake can drastically affect the outcome. One of the most frequent issues is improper sample collection. Using contaminated equipment, the wrong type of vial, or preservatives that have expired can taint a sample. Even temperature changes or delays in testing can cause chemical changes that alter the final readings. Even in the laboratory, equipment calibration issues and mislabeled samples can produce unreliable results. 

Each of these factors can be used by one of the top DUI attorneys in Clearwater with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan during evidence examination.

Are There Any Legal Defenses Related to Blood Test Errors?

When you work with the best DWI lawyer in Clearwater with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan, they will carefully review every step of the blood testing process to determine whether the results can be trusted. If errors or procedural violations are discovered, the defense may challenge the admissibility of the evidence via cross-examination, expert witnesses, or a move to suppress the evidence, all of which can sometimes lead to reduced charges or a complete dismissal.

How an Experienced DUI Attorney With The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan Can Help Your Case

When blood test results are an important part of your DUI charge, a thorough and strategic defense is extremely important. Because so much rests on the accuracy of a single test, having a knowledgeable lawyer who understands both the science and the law can make all the difference in protecting your rights and your future.

To get your complimentary case consultation, call The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan at (727) 291-9717 today. 

Florida law already takes driving under the influence seriously, but when a minor is in the car, the consequences become much harsher. A DUI involving a child passenger is considered especially dangerous because it puts a vulnerable person at risk, and these cases carry enhanced penalties that can significantly impact your life.

If you are facing a DUI with a Minor in the Vehicle charge, the best way to achieve the most favorable and lenient possible outcome is to speak with one of the DWI defense lawyers in Clearwater with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan.

Florida Law on DUI with a Minor in the Vehicle

In Florida, it is illegal to drive either with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher or while your normal capabilities and faculties are impaired. When a child under the age of 18 is present in the vehicle, the charge is automatically treated as more serious. Whether it is your first DUI or not, having a child in your car while impaired can be considered Neglect of a Child, which can escalate your overall charges from a misdemeanor to a felony..

What Are the Penalties of a DUI with a Minor in the Vehicle?

If you are charged with DUI while a minor is in your vehicle, you can expect penalties that go beyond those of a regular DUI. Fines are higher, jail sentences may be longer, and probation terms are often more restrictive. For example, a first DUI usually carries a fine of up to $1,000, but that amount can increase significantly when a child passenger is involved.

Judges may also order the installation of an ignition interlock device, as well as extend the period of driver’s license suspension. In some cases, you could face additional criminal charges, such as child neglect or child abuse, which can further make the situation far more disastrous, especially without proper guidance from a DUI lawyer in Clearwater with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan.

Additional Consequences Following a Conviction

Beyond fines and jail time, a DUI with a minor in the vehicle can have lasting personal consequences. If you are a parent, the conviction could affect your custody or visitation rights in future family court matters, if applicable. Courts may also require you to complete DUI School and attend a substance abuse evaluation or treatment program before your license can be reinstated.

Even more, being convicted of an elevated DUI charge will most likely appear on background checks, which can make it difficult to keep your job or professional licenses. 

What Can a Lawyer Do for a DUI with a Minor in the Vehicle Charge?

Although facing a DUI charge is daunting in the first place, the first step you should take is booking a consultation with a trusted expert lawyer with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan. One of our highly experienced DWI defense lawyers in Clearwater will examine every detail of your traffic stop and arrest to determine whether your rights were violated. If the officer lacked probable cause or if field sobriety tests were conducted improperly, those issues can be raised in your defense.

Your attorney can also question the accuracy of breathalyzer or blood test results, especially if the equipment was not calibrated correctly or procedures were not followed. In some cases, it may be possible to show that your BAC was below the legal limit or that you were not actually impaired by pulling in experts or thoroughly analyzing results. And, when appropriate, your lawyer will likely also present mitigating factors, such as a previously clean driving record, to help reduce any potential penalties.

Contact The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan for Top-Notch Legal Representation

At The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan, we are proud to represent clients throughout Florida who are facing unjust DUI charges, including those involving minors. We have the combined success and experience to give you confidence in your case.

To get started, book a complimentary case consultation with a leading DUI lawyer in Clearwater and call The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan at (727) 291-9717.

When facing a fourth DUI offense, most people believe the outcome is inevitable:  years in prison, a permanently revoked license, and the loss of everything they’ve worked for. But at the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan, we believe every case deserves a careful, strategic, and aggressive defense, no matter how serious the charge.

The Case: Fourth DUI and Refusal to Submit to Breath Test

Our client was arrested in Pinellas County and charged with DUI (fourth offense) and refusal to submit to breath testing. Because of his prior record, he faced up to five years in the Florida Department of Corrections, a permanent driver’s license revocation and an additional year in the Pinellas County Jail.

Before contacting our office, the client had already spoken to several other attorneys. Each one advised him to plea early, hoping that an early acceptance of responsibility might persuade the court to impose a shorter sentence. However, because he held licenses as a financial professional, a felony conviction would have resulted in the lost of his livelihood. 

Feeling hopeless and believing prison was unavoidable, he reached out to our office for one final consultation.

The Strategy: Identifying a Critical Legal Issue

During his consultation with Attorney Timothy Sullivan, our team conducted a detailed review of the facts and circumstances of the client’s case. Drawing on his experience as a former state prosecutor and lead trial attorney, Mr. Sullivan immediately identified what he believed was a significant legal issue affecting the admissibility of key evidence.

Recognizing the potential impact of this issue, the client made the decision to retain our firm.

The Action: Challenging the DHSMV Suspension

Mr. Sullivan quickly filed a challenge to the DHSMV 18-month suspension that resulted from the alleged refusal to submit to testing. Not only did this challenge allow us to gather critical testimony and evidence that supported our defense theory, but our team also won the administrative hearing, sparing the client from 18 months without a driver’s license.

The evidence obtained through that process proved invaluable in the criminal case.

The Result: Felony DUI Reduced to Reckless Driving

Armed with the administrative-hearing evidence and legal research supporting our motion, Mr. Sullivan engaged in detailed negotiations with the State Attorney’s Office. Ultimately, the felony DUI was reduced to a misdemeanor Reckless Driving, and the client avoided jail time, avoided prison, and kept his driver’s license.

What began as a hopeless case with the possibility of years behind bars ended with a result few believed possible.

The Lesson: Experience and Focus Matter

This case illustrates why it’s vital to hire a true DUI defense specialist, not just a lawyer who “handles” DUI cases occasionally.

Attorney Timothy Sullivan has received the same advanced DUI training as law enforcement officers, including certification in field sobriety testing and breath-testing procedures. As a former Pinellas County prosecutor, he understands how the State builds its cases, and more importantly, how to dismantle them.

Mr. Sullivan limits his practice exclusively to Pinellas County DUI and criminal defense, ensuring every client benefits from his focused experience, strategic insight, and reputation for results.

Contact Clearwater DUI Defense Attorney Timothy Sullivan

If you or someone you care about has been charged with a DUI in Clearwater, Dunedin, St. Petersburg, or anywhere in Pinellas County, don’t give up hope, call the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan today at (727) 855-3847 or visit www.duistpetersburglawyer.com for a free consultation.

Getting a DUI charge can completely turn your life around, and a conviction may result in criminal penalties, steep fines, loss of driving privileges, and long-term impacts on your record. One of the most common tools law enforcement uses during a DUI arrest is the breathalyzer. While breath test results can play a central role in a DUI case, their accuracy is not always as clear-cut as it seems.

As the top DWI lawyers in Clearwater, the team with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan is prepared to help you understand how breathalyzers work, and how they can be used during court proceedings.

Understanding Breathalyzers

A breathalyzer is a device that estimates blood alcohol content by measuring the amount of alcohol in a person’s breath. The science is based on the principle that alcohol in the bloodstream passes into the lungs and is exhaled in measurable amounts.

In Florida, law enforcement currently uses the Intoxilyzer 8000 breath testing device. Because of the size of these machines, breath tests frequently occur a significant amount of time after driving because the machines are most commonly kept at the police station or jail..

Scientific Accuracy of Breathalyzer

Manufacturers often claim their devices can measure BAC within a margin of error as small as plus or minus 0.005 percent. But, real-world conditions can affect this precision. Even simple factors such as temperature changes, poor device maintenance, and pure human error can influence readings.

One of the most common issues is improper calibration. Breathalyzers must be regularly calibrated to maintain accuracy, and a machine that has not been properly maintained can produce unreliable results. Residual mouth alcohol can also affect results. This can occur if a person uses mouthwash, breath spray, or has consumed any amount of alcohol shortly before testing, which can cause artificially high readings.

Certain medical conditions, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and diabetes, can also affect breath test results by introducing alcohol-like compounds into the breath sample. Even diet and medication can have an impact. For example, low-carb diets can produce ketones, which may be misread by some devices, and some medications can cause chemical interference. These factors mean that a BAC reading, especially if it is close to the legal limit, should not be taken at face value without further examination.

What to Do After a DUI Arrest 

If you have been arrested for DUI, it is important not to assume that the breath test results are final. You have the right to challenge the evidence against you. Attorney Tim Sullivan routinely analyzes the maintenance and calibration records for the breathalyzer used in DUI cases. In fact, attorneys from throughout the State have retained Mr. Sullivan to review breath test records.. It is also important to preserve any evidence that could be helpful to your defense, such as receipts, medical records, or witness statements from the time of your arrest. 

More importantly, you should contact one of the Top DWI lawyers in Clearwater with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan as soon as possible. Challenging license suspension does come with a tight timeline, and you should act fast to set yourself up for the most favorable outcome.

We are here for you. To get your complimentary case consultation with a leading DWI attorney in Clearwater, call The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan at (727) 291-9717. 

If you’re trying to have fun or catch up on well-deserved rest while on vacation in Clearwater Beach, being charged with a DUI is the last thing you want. If you have been arrested for drinking and driving, you need to consult with the best DWI attorneys in Clearwater at The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan. We have the expertise and successful track record needed to give you confidence throughout these often complex legal proceedings.

Understanding DUI Laws in Florida

Florida has strict DUI laws to keep roadways safe. A driver is considered legally impaired if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. For commercial drivers, the limit is 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, any detectable alcohol can lead to a DUI charge or driver’s license penalties..

Florida treats all drivers the same, including out-of-state visitors. If you are charged with DUI in Clearwater Beach, the same laws and penalties apply regardless of your residency.

Immediate Consequences of a DUI Arrest in Clearwater Beach

If you are stopped on suspicion of DUI, law enforcement will typically conduct roadside sobriety tests and may use a breathalyzer. If you fail these, you will be arrested, booked at the police station, and your vehicle may be towed and impounded. As soon as possible, you should consult with a top DWI lawyer in Clearwater with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan to best help yourself post-stop.

Following the arrest, your driver’s license will be temporarily suspended in Florida. Florida also notifies your home state’s Department of Motor Vehicles, which may result in suspension or other administrative action against your license there. 

What Happens if You’re Not a Florida Resident?

If you hold an out-of-state driver’s license, Florida will still suspend your driving privileges within the state after a DUI arrest. However, the suspension in your home state depends on your state’s participation in the Interstate Driver’s License Compact.

Most states participate in the IDLC, meaning your home state may take action based on the Florida DUI charge. You generally do not have to physically return to Florida for all court appearances, as some proceedings may be handled remotely or through representation. However, depending on the case specifics, your presence may be required at certain times.

Legal Options and Next Steps

If arrested for DUI in Clearwater Beach, it is important to hire the best DWI attorneys in Clearwater with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan. Your attorney will help you understand your rights, review the evidence, and explore options such as plea deals, diversion programs, or case dismissal.

Don’t Settle for Less Than the Best if You Have Been Arrested for a DUI on Vacation

A DUI arrest while on vacation in Clearwater Beach can turn your life upside down, but knowing that an expert attorney is on your side can provide peace of mind. At The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan, we are dedicated to guiding our clients through Florida’s DUI process with clear advice and strong representation.

Have you been arrested for a DUI? Contact a top DWI lawyer in Clearwater at The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan as soon as possible to get a complimentary DUI case consultation, or call our office at (727) 291-9717 for more information.

Police body camera footage has become an increasingly important piece of evidence in DUI cases. This footage is able to provide a real-time, detailed account of what happens during a traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and arrests, and can either support or undermine a DUI defense depending on what it contains. 

At The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan, our DUI attorneys in Clearwater are skilled in carefully analyzing bodycam recordings to protect our clients and build the strongest possible defense.

How Bodycam Footage Can Help Your Defense

One of the main benefits of police bodycam footage is that it includes the full context of the traffic stop. Unlike written police reports, which can sometimes be vague or subjective, bodycam videos provide an unfiltered view of the interaction between you and the officer. If you acted respectfully, cooperated fully, and followed instructions, your Clearwater DUI defense lawyer with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan can often argue that your behavior was inconsistent with someone impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Bodycam footage also highlights how the arresting officer conducted themself. If they failed to follow proper procedures, did not read you your rights, or lacked legal justification to stop or arrest you, the video can be important when filing motions to suppress evidence or challenging the legality of your arrest.

When Bodycam Footage Can Hurt Your DUI Defense

On the other hand, bodycam footage can also work against you if it captures behavior indicating impairment. Videos that show slurred speech, unsteady movements, erratic driving, or poor performance on field sobriety tests will likely strengthen the prosecution’s case. Even hesitation or confusion in responding to questions can be interpreted as signs of intoxication.

The footage may also confirm that the officer acted lawfully and followed proper procedure throughout the stop and arrest. If the video verifies that there was valid probable cause for the stop and that field sobriety tests were administered correctly, it can weaken your defense by removing grounds to challenge the arrest or suppress evidence.

Legal Strategies Involving Bodycam Footage

If you choose to work with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan, your DUI attorney in Clearwater will review all bodycam footage closely to determine how it can be used to your advantage, or to lessen any damaging aspects. If there are any constitutional rights, your attorney can file motions to suppress evidence gathered as a result of the illegal stop, which could potentially lead to it being excluded from your case.

Bodycam footage is also valuable when questioning the validity of field sobriety test results. The recording may show poor testing conditions, such as uneven ground or low light, or reveal that the officer gave confusing instructions. These factors can help argue that the test results were unreliable or improperly conducted.

Why You Need Experienced Legal Representation

Whether bodycam footage helps or hurts your DUI case depends heavily on how it is interpreted and presented in court, which makes it imperative to have an experienced DUI attorney on your side who understands how to most effectively utilize it. 

To get a complimentary DUI case consultation with one of the top DUI defense lawyers in Clearwater, call our office at (727) 291-9717 today.  

Every five to ten years, Florida’s legislature passes a new law that increases the penalties for DUI. After all, what legislator wants to be seen as “soft on drunk driving”? History shows this pattern clearly:

• 1980s – the “legal limit” dropped from .15 to .10.
• 1994 – the legal limit again dropped from .10 to .08.
• 2002 – lawmakers added the requirement of an ignition interlock device for some offenders.
• 2008 – the “enhancement level” fell from .20 to .15, increasing penalties for drivers whose BAC was .150–.199.
• 2025 – now, we have Trenton’s Law.

How Did We Get Here?

In 2023, tragedy struck when a college football player named Trenton was killed by an impaired driver. The case gained widespread attention not only because of its devastating impact on Trenton’s family, but also because the driver had already served prison time for a separate vehicular homicide. Despite this, the law at the time did not allow for harsher penalties in DUI death cases involving repeat offenders.

What Trenton’s Law Does

Signed into law and effective October 1, 2025, Trenton’s Law has two major parts:

1. Harsher Penalties for Repeat Offenders in DUI Death Cases
   • For drivers convicted of DUI Manslaughter or Vehicular Homicide who have a prior DUI manslaughter or Vehicular Homicide  conviction, the maximum penalty is now doubled.
   • This change closes a loophole and ensures that repeat offenders who cause fatal crashes face significantly tougher consequences.
2. Criminalizing a Refusal to Submit to Testing – Even for First Offenders
   • Previously, refusing a breath or urine test in a DUI investigation resulted in administrative penalties—primarily, the loss of driving privileges.
   • Under Trenton’s Law, any refusal (even on a first offense) is now a criminal offense. A first refusal is now a  second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail.
   • In other words, drivers accused of DUI who decline to provide a sample now face two layers of punishment: administrative license suspension and potential jail time.

Why This Matters

On one hand, the harsher penalties for repeat offenders in DUI death cases make sense to most people. On the other hand, the new “refusal” provision has raised eyebrows. It effectively punishes someone for exercising their right to require the State to prove its case in court, rather than handing over evidence against themselves.

This is a significant shift in Florida DUI law and one that will affect thousands of drivers across the state.

Final Thoughts

Every DUI case is different. The facts, the legal defenses, and the possible consequences can vary widely. With the addition of Trenton’s Law, the stakes are now even higher for anyone accused of DUI in Florida.

If you or a loved one has been charged with a DUI in Pinellas County, call The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan at 727-855-3847 for a free consultation. We have the experience and knowledge to guide you through these complex and ever-changing laws.

Getting charged with a DUI is stressful enough. When it comes to post-conviction requirements, the best DUI attorneys in Clearwater with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan have the expertise needed to help you navigate this often confusing time.

A common requirement after DUI is the installation of an ignition interlock device. Taking the time to understand how ignition interlock devices work and what exactly they entail when mandated can help you better prepare for your next steps.

What is an Ignition Interlock Device?

An ignition interlock device is a small breathalyzer that is installed in your vehicle. Before you can start the engine, you must provide a breath sample by blowing into the device. If the device detects a blood alcohol concentration over a preset limit, usually 0.025%, the vehicle will not be able to start.

Modern IID technology is highly advanced. Some systems require random “rolling retests” while you are driving to ensure continued sobriety. While installation is typically handled by a state-approved provider, you are completely responsible for any costs associated with the device, including installation, monthly monitoring, and maintenance fees.

When is an Ignition Interlock Device Issued?

The requirement to install an ignition interlock device depends on the number of prior DUI convictions, the level of your BAC at the time of your arrest, and whether there were any aggravating circumstances.

First Conviction

If it is your first DUI conviction, the court may order an ignition interlock device as part of your sentence, but it is not a guarantee unless you had a high BAC or aggravating factors, especially with representation from one of the best DUI attorneys in Clearwater with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan.

First Conviction with a BAC of 0.15 or Higher or Minor in the Vehicle

If your BAC was 0.15 or higher, or if there was a minor present in the vehicle at the time of the offense, you will be required to install an ignition interlock device for a minimum of six months.

Second Conviction

A second DUI conviction results in a mandatory ignition interlock requirement of at least one year.

Second Conviction with a BAC of 0.15 or Higher or Minor in the Vehicle

If your second conviction involved a BAC of 0.15 or higher or a minor in the vehicle, the ignition interlock device must be installed for at least two years.

Third Conviction

For a third DUI conviction, the law mandates installation of an ignition interlock device for a minimum of two years, regardless of your BAC or other circumstances.

Four or More Convictions

If you are convicted of four or more DUIs and are seeking a hardship license to regain limited driving privileges, you must have an ignition interlock device installed for at least five years as a mandatory condition of your hardship license.

How an Attorney Can Help

A skilled top DUI attorney in Clearwater with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan can make a significant difference in the overall outcome of your case. In some situations, it may be possible to negotiate a reduction of your charges to reckless driving, which could help you avoid the mandatory ignition interlock requirement altogether. Your attorney can also explain any potential costs and ramifications associated with an ignition interlock device.

Contact The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan for the Highest Quality Representation

If you have been charged with DUI and are concerned about the possibility of being required to install an ignition interlock device, do not wait to get the help and guidance you need.

If you are currently facing a DUI charge, the best way to prepare for what is about to come is to be represented by the top DUI lawyers in Clearwater with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan. For a complimentary DUI case consultation, call our office at (727) 291-9717. 

A recent legislative push in Florida may significantly affect how law enforcement handles Boating Under the Influence cases, and if you are planning on enjoying any amount of time on a boat, you should be aware. As the best DUI lawyers in Clearwater, the team at the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan is ready to continually provide you with the most up-to-date information on legislation surrounding BUI and DUI charges.

What is the Change Being Proposed by These Laws?

In February of 2025, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the “Boater Freedom Initiative,” which includes two proposed bills: Senate Bill 1388 and House Bill 1001. This legislation limits the overall authority and capability of law enforcement officers to stop boaters without probable cause, which would ultimately change the way BUI investigations are handled during court procedures.

Under the prior law, officers with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and other legal agencies can randomly stop vessels for safety inspections or to check for compliance with boating laws. These stops can sometimes lead to BUI charges if the officer suspects the boater is impaired in any way. However, SB 1388 and HB 1001 requires officers to have probable cause or reasonable suspicion of criminal activity before they can legally board or detain a vessel. 

What Are the Potential Impacts on BUI Cases and Charges?

This change in the law will undoubtedly make it more difficult for law enforcement to gather evidence against the defendant in BUI cases. Random stops that lead to BUI arrests are no longer permitted unless an officer can clearly articulate a reason for the stop. Actually, this change  aligns boating more closely with the standards used for road traffic stops in DUI cases.

As a result, boaters may see stronger constitutional protections against unlawful searches and seizures while enjoying their time on the water. For individuals charged with a BUI, this law change could provide a better chance for your DUI lawyer in Clearwater with the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan to challenge the legality of the stop, which could even lead to the suppression of “key” evidence or even dismissal of the charges.

How a DUI Defense Attorney Can Benefit Your BUI Case

Facing a BUI charge can result in severe and long-lasting consequences, including fines, probation, and even possibly jail time. The best DUI lawyers in Clearwater with the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan will take the time to examine the facts of your case to determine whether the stop and detention were lawful. 

Contact the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan Today for Leading Legal Guidance and Representation

At the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan, we always remain informed about legislative changes that can impact your rights. If you have been charged with BUI in Florida, our team is prepared to review your case thoroughly, challenge any improper police procedures, and build the strongest defense possible on your behalf.

If you are facing a BUI charge, you can greatly benefit from working with experienced DUI lawyers in Clearwater. To schedule a complimentary DUI case consultation, call our office at (727) 291-9717.

The consequences of a DUI can be severe, and often incur more than just insurance hikes and legal fees. A DUI conviction can be devastating for professionals working in healthcare, law, finance, and even education, as it can result in the complete loss of your professional licensing. If you are charged with a DUI in Pinellas County, the very first step to take is to consult with a top DUI defense attorney in Clearwater with the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan.

How a DUI Can Affect Your Professional License

In many fields, when a professional receives their licensing from a Florida board, they are required to report any past criminal arrests or convictions. If they do not report a previous incident, even if it is a DUI and whether or not there was a conviction, in the timeframe required, it can lead to disciplinary action. The board may investigate the incident once a charge or conviction is reported, and, based on their findings, it could result in probation, license suspension, or even permanent revocation.

Board investigations can be public, and a disciplinary record can follow you and damage your reputation. Even a temporary license suspension can make it difficult to seek future employment or even retain the trust of current clients and colleagues. Regardless of the field, a DUI can trigger a chain of events that threaten your ability to work and grow in your profession, making it all the more important to work with a trusted Clearwater DUI lawyer with the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan.

The Role of a DUI Defense Attorney

If you are a licensed professional who has been charged with DUI in Pinellas County, hiring an experienced Clearwater DUI defense attorney should be your top priority. They will take the time to thoroughly examine the circumstances of your arrest to build as strong a defense strategy as possible and even identify any procedural issues that could potentially lead to a reduction or dismissal of charges. 

Beyond defending you in criminal court, your attorney can represent you in administrative hearings, work to protect your license, and even advise you on how to minimize damage to your professional reputation.

Protecting Your Career Starts with the Right Legal Help

At the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan, our team is committed to using our combined decades of successful courtroom experience to take a comprehensive approach to your defense strategy. If you are a licensed professional facing DUI charges, contact our office today for a confidential consultation. Your future is too important to leave to chance.

Are you currently facing a DUI charge? Take the best step for your future and seek representation from a leading Clearwater DUI lawyer. For a complimentary DUI case consultation, call our office at (727) 291-9717 today.