DUI Defense Lawyer in Martin County

• I know how prosecutors in Martin County, Florida, evaluate DUI charges.
• As a DUI defense attorney, I understand how law enforcement conducts field sobriety tests and where mistakes often occur.
• I am familiar with flaws in breathalyzer test procedures and Intoxilyzer maintenance records.
• The laws governing DUI checkpoints in Martin County, Florida, are well understood and applied, when applicable, throughout my DUI defense strategy.
• From firsthand experience, I am familiar with how prosecutors in Martin County approach negotiations, and I am familiar with the courtroom procedures and expectations of Martin County Judges when presiding over DUI trials.
• I can anticipate the DUI prosecutor’s strategy at motion hearings and trial.

As part of a veteran-owned trial law firm, I am proud to offer discounted legal fees to U.S. military veterans charged with DUI in Martin County. I take my responsibility to my clients seriously. I know that a DUI conviction can alter careers, finances, and family life. That is why every client has my personal cell phone number and can reach me day or night for guidance, reassurance, and updates on their DUI case. When you trust me with your defense, I will be with you every step of the way.

DUI Laws in Florida

Florida DUI law is governed by Section 316.193, Florida Statutes. A person may be charged with Driving Under the Influence if the State
claims they were:

• Under the influence of alcohol, a chemical substance, or a controlled substance to the extent that their normal faculties were impaired, or
• Driving with an unlawful breath-alcohol level of .08 or higher.

DUI Penalties in Martin and St Lucie County increase for high breath test results, accidents involving property damage, minors in the vehicle, and prior DUI convictions. Protecting your driving privileges also requires fast action: you have only 10 days from arrest to request a hearing on your driver’s license suspension.

Further, beginning October 1, 2025, the “first refusal” to a breath test in Florida is now criminalized (second-degree misdemeanor) under Section 316.1939, Florida Statutes, in addition to the one-year license suspension under Section 316.1932, Florida Statutes. Talk to a DUI Defense attorney about this new law.

DUI Defenses in Martin County

Effective DUI Defense in Martin County, Florida, focuses on exposing errors, inconsistencies, or constitutional violations. Common defenses include:

• Unlawful traffic stop — The officer must have a lawful reason to stop your vehicle.
• Improper field-sobriety testing — Weather, medical conditions, or poor instructions may invalidate the results.
• Breath-test challenges — Calibration issues, operator errors, and maintenance problems with the breathalyzer.
• Unreliable officer observations — Many DUI indicators have innocent explanations.
• Violation of rights — Incomplete implied-consent warnings or unlawful questioning.

Strategies Used by DUI Defense Lawyers in Florida

A strong DUI defense often requires a combination of legal and factual strategies. In defending DUI cases throughout Stuart and the Treasure Coast, I may:

• File motions to suppress traffic stops or statements.
• Challenge field sobriety exercises through cross-examination and expert testimony.
• Request breathalyzer records to identify maintenance issues.
• Analyze body-cam and dash-cam video for inconsistencies.
• Negotiate for reduced charges, such as reckless driving, where appropriate.
• Prepare thoroughly for any required contested hearing or trial.

How to Choose a DUI Defense Lawyer in Martin County

Choosing the right lawyer for DUI Defense in Martin County, Florida is an important decision. When evaluating attorneys, consider:

• Experience on both sides — Defense and prosecution experience gives deeper insight.
• Local knowledge — Familiarity with Martin County judges, prosecutors, and procedures matters.
• Accessibility — Your DUI defense lawyer should be reachable when you need answers, not just during business hours.
• Focus and preparation — DUI defense requires detailed review of every video, report, and test.
• Reputation — Your Martin County DUI defense attorney should be known for professionalism, accessibility, and serious trial preparation.

My approach is simple: prepare harder than the other side, communicate openly with my clients, and fight aggressively to protect their rights, livelihood, and future.

Contact Our Veteran-Owned DUI Defense Law Firm

Van Riper & Nies Attorneys is proud to serve our community as a veteran-owned trial law firm and offer veteran discounts. We represent clients throughout Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound, and all of Martin County. Call Christian Van Riper day or night at 772-283-8712 or contact us here.