"No Refusal" DUI Checkpoints in Tampa

Tampa DUI Lawyer

DUI Attorney Jeff Paulk as seen on ABC Action News

If you are a driver in the Tampa area, you may soon find that law enforcement is taking DUI enforcement to a whole new level with "no refusal" DUI checkpoints. This program was enacted in Florida in response to concerns that drivers were managing to get away with driving under the influence by refusing breath tests when stopped for suspected drunk driving. In fact, statistics indicate that 40% of Florida drivers refuse breathalyzer tests.

Under the new no refusal program, a driver may refuse a breathalyzer test when stopped at a DUI checkpoint, but a judge will be present to issue a warrant to test the driver's blood alcohol level anyway.

Tampa DUI defense attorney Jeff Paulk has expressed concern that this program may be taking drunk driving enforcement too far. "It might cause the public to believe that the judges aren't impartial but are actively participating in law enforcement," stated Paulk in a Fox 13 News broadcast. Attorney Paulk also showed concern that the no refusal program may not guarantee the deterrent of DUI offenses. "It might have the opposite effect in that people are less likely to convict on DUI cases because they think it's not fair."

Challenging The No Refusal Program

Working with a lawyer is the most important thing you can do if you were arrested for drunk driving and were subjected to the no refusal program. With extensive experience in challenging DUI charges and a thorough understanding of methods that law enforcement may use at checkpoints to compel a chemical test, our legal team can work to effectively challenge your charges. We are aggressive and are committed to conducting thorough investigations into our clients' cases in order to build the best possible defense on their behalf.

Contact a Tampa DUI Lawyer at our firm today to discuss the no refusal program and DUI checkpoints.