Yes. Even a first offense can lead to serious penalties, including fines, probation, license suspension, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. An attorney can review the facts, identify possible defenses, and work toward reducing or dismissing the charges whenever possible.

After a DUI arrest, you may face both a criminal case and an administrative license suspension. In Florida, you typically have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a formal review hearing to challenge your license suspension. Acting quickly is critical.

In some cases, yes. DUI charges may be challenged based on an unlawful traffic stop, unreliable breath or blood testing, improperly administered field sobriety tests, lack of probable cause, or police procedure issues. Every case is different, so the evidence must be carefully reviewed.

Domestic violence charges can result in jail time, fines, probation, mandatory intervention programs, restraining orders, loss of firearm rights, and a permanent criminal record. These cases can also affect child custody, employment, and housing. A strong defense is important from the start.

Yes. In Florida, prosecutors can continue pursuing a domestic violence case even if the alleged victim does not want to move forward. The decision is usually in the hands of the State Attorney’s Office, not the alleged victim.

Do not discuss the case with police, friends, or anyone else before speaking with an attorney. Drug cases often involve search and seizure issues, and an attorney can review whether law enforcement violated your rights during the stop, search, arrest, or investigation.

Sealing a record restricts public access to it, while expungement removes the record from public view more completely. Eligibility depends on the type of offense, case outcome, prior history, and compliance with Florida law.

Eligibility depends on several factors, including the charge, the outcome of the case, and whether you have a prior criminal history. Attorney Haas can review your record and determine whether you may qualify for sealing or expungement.

Federal cases are handled in federal court and prosecuted by federal prosecutors, who often have significant investigative resources. Federal charges may involve crimes across state lines, federal agencies, financial crimes, drug trafficking, conspiracy, or other serious allegations.

You may be able to appeal if legal errors occurred during your case, such as improper evidence being admitted, constitutional rights violations, incorrect rulings, prosecutorial misconduct, or ineffective assistance of counsel. Appeals are time-sensitive, so you should speak with an attorney quickly.

Possible defenses may include self-defense, defense of others, lack of intent, mistaken identity, unreliable evidence, witness credibility issues, or violations of constitutional rights. The right strategy depends on the specific facts of the case.

Immediately. Early involvement allows your attorney to preserve evidence, identify witnesses, review police conduct, and begin building a defense before the case progresses too far.

Not every case goes to trial. Some cases are resolved through dismissal, reduced charges, negotiated outcomes, or plea agreements. However, if trial is the best path forward, your attorney should be prepared to fight for you in court.

Attorney A. Randall Haas has nearly 40 years of criminal defense experience and has represented clients in state and federal courts across Florida. His office focuses on protecting clients’ rights, freedom, reputation, and future through aggressive, strategic defense.