Florida DUI Breath-Test Challenges: What the O-Ring Ruling Means for West Palm Beach Drivers
A $1 rubber ring may have exposed a flaw sitting inside breathalyzer machines used across Florida, including the ones deployed by law enforcement here in Palm Beach County. In August 2026, a three-judge panel in Duval County threw out a breath test after finding that the way the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the…
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Florida’s New DUI Law: Understanding “Trenton’s Law” and What It Means for DUI Cases in Palm Beach County
By the criminal defense attorneys at Meltzer & Bell, P.A. | West Palm Beach DUI Lawyers As of October 1, 2025, Florida implemented one of the most significant changes to DUI law in recent memory. House Bill 687, known as “Trenton’s Law,” introduces substantially harsher penalties for repeat DUI offenders and fundamentally changes how breath…
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Prescription Medications and DUI: When Legal Drugs Lead to Illegal Charges
If you’ve been arrested for DUI while taking prescription medication in West Palm Beach or anywhere in South Florida, you’re probably confused and worried. After all, you were following your doctor’s orders — how can taking legally prescribed medication result in criminal charges? The reality is that Florida’s DUI laws don’t distinguish between illegal drugs…
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College Student DUI: Legal Advice and Long-Term Consequences
A DUI charge can be a serious setback for anyone, but for college students, the consequences can be particularly devastating. Beyond the legal penalties, a DUI can impact your academic standing, financial aid, and future career prospects. If you’re a college student facing a DUI in Florida, Meltzer & Bell, P.A. provides experienced legal representation…
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Understanding BUI Florida: Laws, Penalties, and Safety Tips
Boating under the influence (BUI) is a serious offense in Florida, carrying penalties similar to driving under the influence (DUI). If you’ve been charged with BUI, understanding the law and having experienced legal representation is crucial. Meltzer & Bell, P.A. provides a strong and knowledgeable defense to those facing BUI charges, guiding you through the…
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Steps to Getting a Hardship License in Florida
Losing your driver’s license in Florida can significantly disrupt your life. Fortunately, in certain circumstances, you may be eligible for a hardship license, allowing you to drive for essential purposes despite a suspension or revocation. Meltzer & Bell, P.A. provides experienced legal guidance to help you navigate the process of getting a hardship license in…
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Top Florida Ignition Interlock Guidelines for DUI Offenders
Facing a DUI charge in Florida often means dealing with the possibility of having an ignition interlock device (IID) installed in your vehicle. These devices prevent you from starting your car if alcohol is detected on your breath. Understanding Florida’s ignition interlock laws and requirements is crucial for navigating this situation. Meltzer & Bell, P.A….
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Understanding Your Rights: Blood Draw Search Warrant in DUI Cases
A DUI arrest in Florida can be stressful and confusing, especially if a blood draw warrant is involved. Understanding your rights and the legal implications of a blood draw is crucial. Meltzer & Bell, P.A. provides experienced DUI defense, guiding you through the complexities of Florida law and fighting to protect your future. In Florida,…
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Navigating the Zero Tolerance Law Florida: Essential Guidelines for Teens and Parents
Florida’s Zero Tolerance Law: Underage DUI is No Minor Offense If you’re under 21 and facing DUI charges in Florida, the stakes are high. The state’s Zero Tolerance Law is unforgiving, with strict penalties that can impact your future, even if it’s your first offense. Don’t underestimate the seriousness of these charges. Meltzer & Bell,…
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Essential DUI Trial Questions You Need to Know
Facing a DUI trial? Knowing what questions will come up can be crucial to your defense. This article breaks down common DUI trial questions, explores legal definitions, and offers tips for challenging evidence and preparing your testimony. Equip yourself with the insights needed to approach your DUI trial confidently. Key Takeaways Understanding DUI charges and…
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Recreational Marijuana in Florida: What’s Next? Meltzer & Bell, P.A. Weighs In
The potential legalization of recreational marijuana in Florida continues to spark debate, raising questions about the impact on our state’s criminal justice system. Recently, WPTV explored this issue in-depth, including insights from Meltzer & Bell criminal defense attorney, Ari Goldberg. With our experience defending Florida residents facing marijuana-related charges, we offer our perspective on this…
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Mastering Your Defense: How to Beat DUI Charges with Proven Strategies
If you’re looking to learn “how to beat DUI” charges, grasp the actionable tactics and legal insights this article presents. Here, we cut through the confusion and identify the key elements that could turn the tide in your favor – without the complexity or fluff. Embark on your “how to beat DUI” defense journey with…
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How Does Florida Treat Out-of-State DUI Convictions?
Imagine you’re enjoying a sunny vacation in Florida, and suddenly, you find yourself facing a DUI charge. The situation can quickly turn into a nightmare, especially if you’re from out of state or even another country. Navigating an out-of-state DUI case in Florida can be a complex and daunting task. Understanding the state’s unique approach…
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Do Breathalyzers Detect Weed? Exploring the Technology and Challenges of THC Detection
The legalization of marijuana has raised many questions, one of which is how to detect impaired drivers. Traditional breathalyzers can easily detect alcohol, but what about marijuana? Do breathalyzers detect weed? Is there a reliable and efficient way to determine if someone is under the influence of marijuana while driving? In this blog post, we…
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BAC For a Driver Under 21: What Is The Legal Limit?
Underage drunk driving is a critical concern in Florida. Anyone under the age of 21 is forbidden from drinking alcohol, although several young people drink anyway. People over the age of 21 are already severely punished for driving under the influence of alcohol, and the state is even less forgiving with underage drunk drivers. So…
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Is a Second DUI a Felony? Everything You Need to Know
If you’ve been arrested in Florida for a second DUI, you’re probably wondering whether it will be treated as a misdemeanor or felony. Well, to get you started, here’s what a second DUI is defined as under Florida Statute 316.193(1) and (2)(a): A second DUI occurs when a person; Has actual physical control or drives…
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What to Do In case of Multiple DUI Charges?
Driving under the influence is a grievous offense in the United States. The offense attracts possible imprisonment, penalties, and license suspension. For example, in Florida State, a 4th or subsequent conviction is treated as a third-degree felony. It attracts a fine of up to $5000, 5 years jail term, and vehicle immobilization for 90 days….
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DUI Manslaughter Penalties
When you’re charged with DUI manslaughter in Florida, you may be wondering what that means and scared about the possible penalties you could have to face. Could you go to county jail or state prison? Will you have to pay thousands of dollars worth of fines? What would this do to your future plans? Could…
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How Long Is Your Car Impounded for a DUI in Florida?
When you drive under the influence in Florida, you could face many consequences including time in jail and hefty fines. It’s also possible that you’ll lose your car when law enforcement impounds it. Hiring a DUI lawyer with hundreds of wins in Florida will give you the best shot at coming out on top. …
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Is a DUI a Felony in Florida?
If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence in the Sunshine State, one of your first questions may be, “Is a DUI a felony in Florida?” The short answer is “sometimes.” To fully answer that question, it’s important to understand the larger picture of Florida DUI law. Defining Driving Under the Influence of…
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How to Pick a DUI Lawyer
If you’ve been charged with driving under the influence in Florida, you know that you need the assistance of a DUI lawyer, but you may not know how to go about selecting one. When considering how to pick a DUI lawyer, you may not feel comfortable asking friends, coworkers, and acquaintances for referrals. That’s understandable….
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DUI Checkpoints: Still Legal and Still Controversial 25 Years Later
With the holidays fast approaching, it is the time of year to celebrate. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s are usually happy times when people re-connect with family and friends. While traveling the highways and byways to and from their celebratory activities, drivers in West Palm Beach and Palm Beach County may encounter a sobriety checkpoint…
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PROPOSED DUI LEGISLATION-HB-299: VOTE NO!
In an society of social networking, media events, marketing opportunities, social media events and events which are purposely structured to occur at night and occur with cocktails and food, it is natural and obvious that professionals and the like will attend these events, have something to drink and ultimately possibly operate a motor vehicle. It…
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