Florida legal information · Updated August 3, 2026
What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Florida?
Direct answer
After a Florida DUI arrest, the person may be booked, released on bond or conditions, required to attend court, and face a separate driver-license process. The criminal case and the administrative license consequences are related but not identical. Deadlines can begin immediately.
Preserve evidence early
Body-camera video, dashboard video, dispatch records, breath-test records, medical records, receipts, witness information, and vehicle data may matter. Do not post about the arrest or discuss facts in recorded jail calls, texts, or social media.
What issues are reviewed?
Common issues include the legality of the stop, probable cause, field sobriety exercises, breath or blood testing, refusal allegations, actual physical control, accident evidence, Miranda issues, and whether evidence should be suppressed.
What does Florida law prohibit?
Florida Statutes section 316.193 addresses driving or actual physical control while normal faculties are impaired by alcohol or specified substances, or while an unlawful breath- or blood-alcohol level is present.
Related resources
Florida DUI defense guide
What to do after an arrest
Should I talk to police?
Discuss a specific case
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