DUI Your Legal Lifeline in Stormy Seas

Sarasota DUI Lawyers

Defending Drivers in Manatee Counties & Lakewood Ranch Since 1993

DUI arrests in Sarasota and Manatee counties can be a painful experience. Roadside field sobriety tests given to suspected drunk drivers are typically embarrassing. The terrible reality of handcuffs and spending time in jail can be emotionally challenging for any driver. Furthermore, the penalties that could follow a conviction mean that DUI consequences can have long-term implications on your life.

At McIntosh Law, we know how to lessen or avoid the consequences of a DUI arrest. Attorney McIntosh has received training in forensic blood testing. Our lawyers can investigate the details surrounding your arrest and analyze whether the police properly conducted any breath, blood, or field sobriety tests. Our extensive knowledge of Florida DUI laws puts the skilled legal representation of our entire team on your side.

Request a confidential consultation with a Sarasota DUI attorney at McIntosh Law by phone at (941) 299-0701. You can also use our online contact form to get started.

DUI Charges in Sarasota

Under Florida law, DUI charges are based on the following:

A blood or breath alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 percent or higher, or
Being under the influence of alcohol or any chemical substance to the extent your normal faculties are impaired (regardless of BAC level).

Chemical substances can include illegal drugs, prescription medicines, or over-the-counter products, such as allergy or sleep aids.

Understanding Florida DUI Penalties

In Florida, DUI penalties can be harsh. Judges must impose specific minimum penalties and adjudicate the driver guilty unless a skillful attorney can negotiate a reckless driving plea or another offense.

Consequences of a DUI conviction include:

For a first conviction: You may face a fine of no less than $500 and a maximum of $1,000. Additional penalties include probation time, DUI school, and driver's license suspension.
For a second conviction: Mandatory jail time and fines increase significantly for a conviction within five years, and your license may be suspended for five years.
A third conviction: If the third conviction occurs within 10 years, it can result in a lifetime loss of your license and no less than 30 days in jail. However, many judges impose harsher penalties than the minimum required.

Because the penalties escalate with each subsequent conviction, successfully challenging the first DUI arrest becomes critical.

License Suspensions in Florida

If you face charges for a DUI/DWI, it is vital that you act quickly to protect your driver’s license. You must request a DUI DMV Administrative Hearing within 10 days of your arrest. Contact McIntosh Law to protect your legal rights. We can walk you through the process and help you prepare for your hearing.

Analyzing DUI Test Accuracy

Many people assume that if a breathalyzer, blood, or field sobriety tests indicate you are under the influence, you are automatically guilty of a DUI. This is not the case. Many factors can influence the validity of these tests. A skilled lawyer can help separate fact from fiction regarding sobriety tests.

Our attorneys at McIntosh Law have advocated for those facing DUI charges since 1993. We know the law and understand the flaws associated with breath, blood, and field sobriety tests. Our first step is to meet with you to understand your situation. We can then conduct our own investigation into the evidence to build a defense strategy based on the facts and circumstances of your case.

Sarasota DUI Attorneys Trained In Police Procedures

Law enforcement officials generally use three methods to determine if you are intoxicated:

Breath tests: Recently, the scientific validity of this test has come into question. We have extensive knowledge of these tests and will question if the breathalyzer equipment is properly calibrated and maintained. We also evaluate whether the test was conducted at the scene or later, as this can affect the validity of the results.
Blood tests: Blood tests are commonly believed to be the most effective test for blood alcohol content (BAC). However, multiple steps are involved, which may result in significant errors. Mr. McIntosh has received forensic blood test training. Thus, our attorneys can evaluate whether the sample was properly drawn, preserved, and tested. Since this is an invasive test, we can also question whether proper consent was given to draw the blood sample.
Field sobriety: The National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) designed this series of exercises. The validity of these is questionable. In Florida, it is illegal for law enforcement to refer to them as “tests” in a courtroom. Mr. McIntosh is certified to conduct field sobriety exercises, enabling him to expose them as imperfect measurements.

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"HIGHLY Recommend!"
Beth Loeffler is a knowledgable, no nonsense attorney. She is professional and defends her clients every step of the way. I highly recommend!

- Former Client
"Fantastic Communication"
Kevin saved my life. He is not the typical lawyer, there was fantastic communication and diligent care taken with my case. I am eternally grateful and I highly recommend this law firm!

- Shawn B.
"My First Choice"
Let me first start off by saying WOW! As soon as I called his office he got right on the phone with me and asked me "what can I do to help?" I personally think that if you don't hire them, you are not keen on winning.

- William T.
"Knowledgable and Friendly"
Brett and Kevin are outstanding, diligent lawyers who work extremely hard on behalf of their clients. I felt they offered the most realistic approach and were willing to work hard for the best outcome possible.

- Carla W.
"A Complete Victory"
Brett delivered a masterful performance in court, leading to the dismissal of all charges against me. Not only did Brett secure a complete victory, but he also effectively tarnished my accuser's credibility in the eyes of the prosecutor.

- Greg S.
"All-Around Excellent Guy"
He was awesome. Worked hard on my case and just an all-around excellent guy. He helped me get my contractor's license approved. Calling McIntosh Law was the best decision I made.

- Franklin W.
"Highly Esteemed in the Community"
Brett was able to get my charges reduced, and our case was handled very well. Mr. McIntosh is highly esteemed within the law community by his peers. He is a man of integrity and honesty, and his staff is excellent.

- Laurie H.
"They Saved My Future"
Without a shadow of a doubt the best thing I could have done was retain McIntosh Law. The outcome could not have been better. The communication was outstanding. They saved my future.

- Gerald I.

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Skilled Defenders On Your Side Over 100 Years of Combined Experience

Here's What Sets Us Apart

Deep Local Knowledge & Dedication

With over 25 years serving Manatee County, McIntosh Law is committed to defending our community’s rights with integrity.
Powerful Team Approach

You don’t just get a lawyer—you get an entire team collaborating for your success. Our attorneys and paralegals have over 100+ years of combined experience.
Strategic & Experienced Defense

Your case deserves a personalized strategy. Every team member has over twenty years in law, ensuring a skilled, thoughtful defense tailored to your specific case.
Proven Success

Trusted by thousands, we know what it takes to navigate complex criminal cases, bringing experience and results-driven focus to every stage of your defense.

Aggravating Factors in Florida DUI

Certain factors can aggravate a DUI charge, leading to enhanced penalties:

High BAC levels: A BAC significantly higher than the legal limit, such as 0.15 percent or higher, can result in more severe charges.
Reckless driving: Exhibiting dangerous driving behavior at the time of the arrest can escalate the charge.
Presence of minors: Having a child in the car during the offense can increase penalties.
Accidents and injuries: Causing an accident, especially one resulting in injury or death, dramatically increases the severity of the charges.

Multiple DUI Offenses

Facing successive DUI charges in Florida carries progressively harsher consequences. Each subsequent conviction can lead to the following:

Longer jail sentences: Repeat offenders face mandatory increased jail time.
Higher fines: Financial penalties grow with each conviction, often reaching thousands of dollars.
Extended license suspensions: Repeat offenses can result in longer periods of license suspension or permanent revocation.
Mandatory treatment programs: Offenders may be required to complete substance abuse treatment programs.
Mandatory installation and maintenance of ignition interlock devices: These function as in-car breathalyzers, requiring drivers to provide a breath sample before the vehicle will start.

Florida DUI Manslaughter

DUI manslaughter is one of the most severe DUI charges involving the unlawful killing of another person while driving under the influence.

The legal consequences are severe and can include:

Long-term imprisonment: Convictions are subject to a minimum of four years in prison, usually followed by probation with community service requirements.
Hefty fines: Typical fines can be up to $10,000.
Permanent criminal record: A DUI manslaughter conviction results in a lifelong felony record, affecting employment and personal reputation.
Civil liability: Convicts may also face civil lawsuits from victims' families, which can lead to additional financial burdens.

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Our Commitment to Your Defense in Sarasota & Surrounding Areas

A DUI conviction follows you for life. There is no way to erase or expunge it. Do not take the easy way out and plead guilty without consulting an experienced attorney. Hiring a proven defense lawyer now can save you from a lifetime record affecting job opportunities and your future.

Every DUI case is unique. The best decisions concerning them are based on the facts of your case. At McIntosh Law, we are committed to providing a well-prepared and assertive DUI defense. We understand the complexities and nuances of DUI law and work to zealously protect your rights throughout the legal process. Let our team approach help you navigate this challenging time.

Call (941) 299-0701 or submit our online contact form to discuss your case with a Sarasota DUI attorney.

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100+ Years of Combined Experience Decades of Experience, United for Your Defense

Standing Together When the Storms Rage

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