Bay County, Florida DUI Attorneys in Panama City

The State of Florida takes drunk driving offenses very seriously, imposing penalties that could change your life. The complex legal system, coupled with the severity of the consequences for DUI in Florida, make it important that you seek qualified legal guidance to help prepare your DUI defense case.

Bay County, Florida DUI Attorneys Dowgul & Hatcher can help you thorough the confusing and stressful legal maze while ensuring you get the best possible result from your case. Panama City DUI Attorneys Dowgul & Hatcher will protect your rights and seek dismissal or reduction of charges at every step of the legal process. Their experience and knowledge of Florida DUI laws can make a positive difference in the outcome of your drunk driving case.

To learn about your rights under Florida DUI Laws and to learn more about Bay County DUI Criminal Defense Lawyers Dowgul & Hatcher and how they can help you, call (850) 763-0900 or fill out the consultation request form to the left. The initial review of your case is free and confidential.

Having experience with driving under the influence cases and the Florida DUI Laws is crucial to the success of your case. Panama City DUI Attorneys Dowgul & Hatcher focus on criminal law. They will use their extensive experience and DUI knowledge to provide you with competent and aggressive legal counsel.

Time is important when it comes to preparing a drunk driving defense. By contacting Dowgul & Hatcher as quickly as possible, you increase the chances of retaining your driver's license and winning your case. For more information, call (850) 763-0900.

According to Florida DUI laws, legal intoxication of a motorist occurs when there is a blood alcohol content of .08% or higher. Though there are variables, the first three drunk driving arrests are considered misdemeanors and subsequent charges are felonies.

The penalties for driving drunk in Florida are influenced by a number of factors, including the level of your blood alcohol content, whether there was an accident with bodily harm or property damage, if you refused to submit to a breath or blood test, and if you have any previous alcohol related arrests.

Generally, a first time DUI offender in Florida could receive a sentence that includes suspension of driver's license, fines, community service, immobilization of vehicle and jail time. Certain circumstances could add mandatory alcohol education classes and installation of an ignition interlock device to the penalties. Auto insurance is usually cancelled after a DUI, forcing the motorist into a high-risk pool with substantially increased premiums. A conviction for drunk driving would result in a permanent criminal arrest record, which would lead to substantial restrictions and limitations in your lifestyle and job opportunities.

To protect your future and your livelihood you need to fight the charges brought against you. Panama City, Florida DUI Lawyers Dowgul & Hatcher will help you by filing motions to suppress your case and challenging evidence. Their goal is to seek dismissal or reduction of your charges in order to keep your record clean.

Bay County, Florida DUI Lawyers Dowgul & Hatcher know that an arrest for DUI can be emotionally trying and frightening. In addition to offering competent legal advice, Dowgul & Hatcher will answer your questions, work with you to determine the best strategy for your DUI defense case and continually communicate the status of your case. They will be there for you at all times.

Dowgul & Hatcher principal James R. Dowgul began his legal career in the Public Defender's Office for the 12th Judicial Circuit in Sarasota, Florida and later with the Public Defender's Office for the 14th Judicial Circuit in his hometown of Panama City. He has extensive misdemeanor and felony trial experience, especially with DUI defense cases.

James Dowgul earned a Bachelor's Degree in Business from Florida State University and a juris doctorate from Oklahoma City University. Mr. Dowgul has also received a Master of Laws Degree from Stetson University. He is admitted to the Florida Bar.

Wesley G. Hatcher, Jr. received an undergraduate degree and Master's Degree in History from the University of West Alabama and earned a Juris Doctorate from Mississippi College School of Law.

Attorney Wes Hatcher formerly worked in the Public Defender's Office for the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit in Bay County, earning significant experience handling thousands of misdemeanor and felony cases, including DUI. He is admitted to the Florida Bar and is a member of the Bay County Bar Association and the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys.

For immediate help with your Florida DUI defense, contact Panama City, Florida DUI Lawyers Dowgul & Hatcher, P.A. by filling out the request form to the left or calling (850) 763-0900. Remember it is important to start your legal defense as quickly as possible if you want the best result from your case. Dowgul & Hatcher will respond to your inquiry at all hours and even on the weekend.