Legally Reviewed By:
Brian P. Gabriel, Esquire
Florida beckons spring breakers from around the world to enjoy the state’s warm climates, beautiful beaches, and options for a good time up and down each coast of the peninsula. However, some spring breakers take it a step too far and find themselves behind bars charged with a DUI. When this happens, it is important to have a DUI defense attorney who has in-depth knowledge of Florida law and extensive experience negotiating with prosecutors on your behalf.
It is best not to do anything to put yourself in a situation to be arrested for DUI while in Florida for spring break. But it happens, so knowing your rights and being prepared is essential. It also helps to be aware of the steps to take if you have been arrested for DUI while enjoying your spring break in Florida.
Steps to Take If You’ve Been Arrested for a DUI During Florida Spring Break
As this is likely a time fraught with stress and uncertainty, it might not be clear what you should do first. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to make the situation go smoother.
Step 1: Remain Calm
If you panic, you are more likely to say something that might incriminate you. Be respectful and try not to divulge any details. Don’t make any statements about what you may have been doing. Don’t offer any details about how much you have had to drink, and politely provide your identifying information when asked. This is all that is required by law in Florida.
Step 2: Call a Florida DUI Criminal Defense Lawyer
Your DUI attorney is your best advocate and can rely on years of experience in this area of law to help address your specific circumstances. Your attorney will assess your case and help implement a strategy to address the situation without further inflaming it. Your attorney will also handle, if necessary, seeking a reduced bond amount and continue to attempt to negotiate on your behalf. This is one of the reasons working with a knowledgeable DUI defense lawyer in Florida matters to your case.
Step 3: Follow Legal Advice
One of the biggest mistakes you can make after being arrested for a DUI on spring break in Florida is failing to follow the legal advice of your attorney or failing to show up as needed for various appointments and court dates. Once a legal defense has been established, the best way forward is to implement the steps that your DUI criminal defense lawyer recommends. Following this advice is the surest way to work toward resolving your case and mitigate long-term implications.
Step 4: Be Mindful of Travel and Out-of-State Status
Many spring break DUI arrests involve visitors who do not live in Florida. If you are facing a DUI charge but need to return home, tell your attorney right away, since court dates, bond conditions, and any license consequences may need to be coordinated across the state where you live and Florida. Missing a Florida court date because you traveled home without addressing this can create additional legal problems on top of the original charge.
Consult a Skilled DUI Criminal Defense Lawyer for Spring Break Arrests
If you’ve been cited for an open container violation or charged with a DUI, you need the help of a reputable criminal defense lawyer to assist. Criminal Defense Attorney Brian Gabriel has spent more than 30 years representing people charged with DUI and BUI. He will handle your case using the knowledge and skill developed over the span of his career and will work diligently to defend your rights.
Start with a free consultation. You can also complete an online contact form to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spring Break DUI Arrests in Florida
Do I have to answer questions about how much I had to drink?
No. Florida law only requires you to provide your identifying information. You are not required to answer questions about your activities or how much you had to drink, and it is generally best to avoid volunteering that information.
What if I am from out of state and arrested during spring break?
Tell your attorney about your out-of-state status right away, since court dates, bond conditions, and license consequences may need to be coordinated between Florida and your home state. Leaving Florida without addressing this can create additional problems.
Can my bond amount be reduced after a spring break DUI arrest?
In some cases, yes. Your attorney can request a bond reduction hearing depending on the specifics of your arrest and criminal history.
What happens if I miss a court date because I already went home?
Missing a scheduled court appearance can result in an additional warrant being issued, on top of the original DUI charge. Coordinating your travel and court dates with your attorney in advance helps avoid this.
Is a BUI treated the same as a DUI in Florida?
Boating under the influence, or BUI, is a separate Florida offense from DUI, though the two share similar legal standards for impairment. An attorney experienced in both can explain how the specific charge you’re facing applies to your situation.
Brian Gabriel is the driving force behind the Law Office of Gabriel & Gabriel. He has been in practice for over 30 years and his experience during that time has been devoted almost exclusively to the defense of criminal cases.
August 12, 2026
