After prosecuting DUI’s in Dade County, back in 1987, for the State Attorney’s Office, I have been defending them for over 20 years now. Historically the State Attorneys office has wanted to get “drunk drivers” off the streets and show a high conviction rate …that meant vigorous prosecution with little mercy for first time offenders!
Suddenly, within the last 4 or so months, the Dade County.State Attorney’s Office has taken an about face. Now, first time offenders of misdemeanor DUI's, where there is no accident and no children involved, are eligible for a program that will result in no DUI conviction..
HOWEVER, the CAVEAT is that people who may have a very legitimate defense that could result in the total dismissal of their charges, may forgo hiring a lawyer and just take the program. The program still leaves people with a reckless driving conviction, DUI school, and loads of fines and costs that amount to thousands of dollars!
