If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Florida, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is whether to hire a private DUI attorney. Your freedom, license, reputation, and even your job may depend on the outcome of your case. In the 45-second video above, Attorney William F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. explains why having an experienced DUI defense lawyer on your side makes a real difference.

🚨 DUI Arrests in Florida: What You’re Really Facing

Every day, hundreds of people are arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) across Florida. It can happen after one drink, a traffic stop, or even a misunderstanding. But once you’re in the system, the consequences start quickly:

• Immediate driver’s license suspension by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV)
• Mandatory court appearances
• Possible jail time, fines, probation, and ignition interlock devices
• A permanent criminal record
• Increased insurance premiums
• Lost job opportunities, especially for CDL holders or those in government or healthcare

You don’t have to plead guilty or go through it alone.

👨‍⚖️ Why Hire Attorney William F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr.?

Casey Ebsary is a Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer, a distinction held by less than 0.5% of all Florida attorneys. He’s also a former DUI prosecutor, which gives him insider knowledge of how these cases are built—and how to dismantle them.

🛡️ Legal Credentials That Matter:

• Former Assistant State Attorney
• Certified by the Florida Bar Board of Legal Specialization and Education
• Over 25 years of courtroom experience
• Practices in State and Federal Court

This level of expertise is critical. DUI law is complex and constantly evolving, especially with changes in breath test procedures, field sobriety test reliability, and license suspension protocols.

❓Top 5 Questions About Hiring a DUI Lawyer in Florida

Should I hire a DUI lawyer for my first offense in Florida?

Yes. Even a first-time DUI in Florida can lead to license suspension, fines, probation, and a criminal record. A DUI lawyer can evaluate the stop, breath test, and police procedures to identify mistakes or violations of your rights—possibly leading to reduced or dismissed charges.

What does a DUI lawyer do that a public defender doesn’t?

While public defenders are skilled attorneys, they often juggle heavy caseloads. A private DUI lawyer like William F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. can give your case personalized attention, file motions to suppress evidence, handle your DMV hearing, and aggressively negotiate to protect your driving record and freedom.

Can a DUI attorney help me avoid losing my driver’s license?

Yes. After a DUI arrest in Florida, you have only 10 days to challenge the automatic suspension with the DHSMV. A DUI lawyer can request and represent you at the formal review hearing, and in some cases, help you obtain a hardship or business-purpose license.

Is it worth the cost to hire a DUI lawyer in Florida?

In most cases, yes. While DUI lawyers can cost between $2,500–$10,000, the long-term costs of a DUI conviction—including higher insurance rates, job loss, and a permanent criminal record—can far outweigh the initial legal fees.

What qualifications should I look for in a Florida DUI attorney?

Look for experience, courtroom results, and Board Certification. Casey Ebsary is a Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer and former DUI prosecutor—an honor earned by less than 0.5% of Florida lawyers. That means you’re hiring a legal expert with deep knowledge of DUI defense strategies.

⚠️ Public Defender vs. Private DUI Attorney

One of the most common questions clients ask is:
“Why shouldn’t I just use a public defender?”

Here’s why that’s a risky choice:

Only a private DUI attorney can fight your driver’s license suspension through a DHSMV administrative hearing. Many people don’t know they have only 10 days to request that hearing after arrest. Miss that window, and your license may be suspended automatically—even if the DUI charge is later dropped.

🔍 What a DUI Attorney Actually Does

DUI cases are rarely “open and shut.” They often involve flawed testing, poor police procedures, and legal technicalities that can lead to dismissal or reduced charges.

Here’s what Casey Ebsary and his legal team will do for you:

• Request and fight your DHSMV administrative license suspension
• Review dashcam, bodycam, and breath test video footage
• File motions to suppress illegal stops or searches
• Examine the accuracy and calibration of the Intoxilyzer 8000 breathalyzer
• Identify errors in Field Sobriety Test administration
• Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges
• Take your case to trial if necessary

🧠 Knowledge Is Power: Use Our Free DUI Case Database

Want to know how other Florida DUI cases have been resolved? Use our free searchable DUI case results database to research past outcomes. Empower yourself with real information.

🔗 Visit the DUI Case Database

You’ll find real-world examples of dismissed DUIs, reduced charges, and license reinstatements—many handled by Casey Ebsary.

📞 Call Now – Don’t Wait to Defend Your License

Time is not on your side after a DUI arrest in Florida. The clock starts ticking the moment you’re arrested. You have:

• 10 Days to fight your administrative license suspension
• A court date set quickly
• A chance to challenge the case before evidence is lost or witnesses forget

📱 Call 813-222-2220 now to speak directly with a DUI defense lawyer. Casey Ebsary offers confidential consultations and will guide you through your next steps.

📺 Watch: Should You Hire a DUI Attorney?

▶️ Watch the 45-Second Video Above
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7SkXlKD48xk

In this short but powerful video, Casey Ebsary explains exactly why hiring a private DUI attorney is critical to protect your rights, license, and record. He’s been in courtrooms across the Tampa Bay area helping people just like you.

⚖️ Serving All of Tampa Bay and Beyond

Casey Ebsary defends DUI and criminal cases in:

• Tampa
• St. Petersburg
• Clearwater
• Hillsborough County
• Pinellas County
• Pasco County
• Polk County
• Manatee County
• And throughout Central Florida

🔗 Helpful Resources

• Florida Statute §316.193 – DUI Law (Justia)
• Florida DHSMV DUI Information
• Search DUI Case Results – Florida
• YouTube DUI Videos by Casey Ebsary
• Reviews – Google Business Profile – Casey Ebsary

📲 Ready to Take Action?

Don’t risk your license, your freedom, or your future. Call the Law Office of William F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. now.

📞 (813) 222-2220
🌐 https://dui2go.com/
📍 Tampa, Florida

Original Post from 2013

Here is a 45 second video on Should you Hire a DUI Attorney? William F. “Casey” Ebsary, Jr. is a lawyer who practices in the area of criminal defense of all criminal charges in State and Federal Court.

Casey is a former Assistant State Attorney and was a Criminal D U I Prosecutor. Casey is Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law by the Florida Bar Board of Legal Specialization and Education.

Less than one-half of one percent of Florida’s attorneys have qualified for this distinction. Do your homework – Review and Compare. Then Decide should you hire a DUI Defense Attorney? Call 813 222 2220.

Visit our Free fully searchable DUI database here or just go to the search bar at the top of this page:

http://news.duifla.com/

You can also visit  a DUI  Attorney here.

https://plus.google.com/101363839921148808253/about?gl=US&hl=en-US

Here are more DUI  Attorney videos: 

http://www.youtube.com/centrallaw

Video Summary:

Should I  Hire a DUI Attorney? Yes – A public defender cannot save you from a DUI DHSMV suspension. Should I  Hire a DUI Attorney? Yes – DUI DHSMV (Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles) suspension can remain even if the case is reduced or dismissed by the court. Should I  Hire a DUI Attorney? Yes – A DUI lawyer’s investigation can make or break a case.

Transcript:

[DUI  Lawyer Narrates] Hundreds of people are arrested every day, you may be one of them. I spend most of my time in court fighting state and federal criminal charges. I have arrived at my destination. One of the many courthouses in Tampa Bay where I help people. Let me help you. Have you got criminal charges in State or Federal Court? Let me help. Call me at 813-222-2220. [End of DUI Attorney Narrates]

Q&A: RIDR Program in Hillsborough County Florida – Answers from an Expert

Questions and Answers

from a

DUI Expert

As a DUI expert serving Hillsborough County, I understand the anxiety and confusion that follows a first-time DUI arrest. The RIDR program offers a potential path to resolution, but navigating its complexities is vital. This comprehensive guide breaks down the RIDR program through essential Q&A and a detailed table, clearly outlining eligibility, benefits, and restrictions.

My goal is to equip you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions. If you’re seeking clarity and personalized legal guidance on your DUI case and the RIDR program details presented below, reach out to Casey at DUI2Go.com for expert assistance.

Why was the First-Time DUI Diversion (RIDR) program created?

The program was created to address Hillsborough County’s high rates of DUI crashes, injuries, and fatalities. It aims to reduce recidivism and improve community safety by imposing enhanced sanctions on first-time, non-aggravated DUI offenders.  

Who is eligible for the First-Time DUI Diversion program?

Eligibility criteria include: the case must be a misdemeanor DUI offense; there can be no children in the vehicle; the breath alcohol concentration must be below 0.200%; there cannot have been a crash; there cannot be a prior DUI, alcohol-related reckless driving, driving while license suspended with serious bodily injury or death, leaving the scene of an accident with injury or death, or vehicular homicide charges; there cannot have been a prior DUI diversion program and no more than one non-DUI diversion program as an adult; and in the five years prior to the date of offense the driver cannot have had a prior adjudication withhold or any portion of a felony sentence.

How are cases selected for the program?

Your attorney can request consideration. The State Attorney’s Office evaluates cases individually based on the specific facts. They have the sole discretion to determine eligibility. Sanction levels are determined by BAC and the nature of the offense.

What are the benefits of accepting a plea offer under this program?

Benefits include: No Conviction; reduced charge to reckless driving; withhold adjudication; 12 months probation; vehicle immobilization for 10 days; avoidance of a DUI conviction on their record; and completion of DUI school and any recommended treatment.

What are the restrictions during the diversion program?

Restrictions include: no possession or consumption of alcohol, illegal drugs, or non-prescribed drugs during the 12-month probation period; payment of standard court costs and cost of supervision; and completion of DUI school and any recommended treatment.

Table Summarizing the First-Time DUI Diversion (RIDR) Program:

Don’t Navigate Your DUI Alone: Connect with Casey Today.

If you or someone you know is facing a first-time DUI in Hillsborough County, contact Casey at DUI2Go.com today. Learn more about Casey here: https://dui2go.com/about/ For expert legal assistance regarding the First-Time DUI Diversion program, reach out to Casey at DUI2Go.com. Contact Casey here: https://dui2go.com/contact/

Original Announcement from 2018

Why Start New First-Time DUI Diversion (RIDR)?

Hillsborough County has consistently been ranked the worst or near the worst in Florida for DUI crashes, injuries, and fatalities. Given the dangers of impaired driving and the importance of reducing recidivism to promote long-term Community safety, the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office has established the reducing impaired driving recidivism initiative. The program seeks to aggressively target and reduce impaired driving by imposing enhanced sanctions like alcohol monitoring devices and DUI education programs on first-time, non-aggravated DUI offenders. This First-Time DUI Diversion program also promotes consistency in the prosecution of DUI cases by eliminating the incentive for offenders to refuse to provide a breath sample during the investigation.

Who Is Eligible for First-Time DUI Diversion Program?

To be eligible for the First-Time DUI Diversion program, first, the case must be a misdemeanor DUI. There can be no children in the vehicle. Also, the breath alcohol concentration must be below .200% and there cannot have been a crash. Additionally, there cannot be a prior DUI alcohol-related reckless driving, driving while license suspended with serious bodily injury or death, leaving the scene of an accident with injury or death, or vehicular homicide charges in the driver’s past. Finally, there cannot have been a prior DUI diversion program, more than one non-DUI diversion program as an adult, or in the five years prior to the date of offense the driver cannot have had a prior adjudication withhold or any portion of a sentence on a felony.

What Is The Process For Selecting Cases In This DUI Diversion Program?

The state attorney’s office will evaluate all cases on an individual fact-specific basis. The state attorney’s office solely determines the individual’s eligibility for the RIDR First-Time DUI Diversion Program. There will be three sanction levels for eligible cases. Level one cases will have a breath level below .15%. Next, Level two will have breath alcohol levels above .15% but less than .20% or there has been a refusal to provide. Last, Level 3 will be for drug-related DUIs.

Why Would Someone Want To Accept A Plea Offer Under The New DUI Program?

Mainly the driver will be offered a reduced charge of reckless driving and withhold adjudication. There will be 12 months probation. Individual must pay standard court costs and cost of supervision. They will have their vehicle immobilized for 10 days. The first-time DUI offender cannot possess or consume alcohol, illegal drugs, or non prescribed drugs during that 12 month period. Also, the offender must successfully complete the DUI school and any recommended treatment.

Hillsborough County First-Time DUI Diversion Program (RIDR) – Key Information

Facing a first-time DUI in Hillsborough County? The Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism (RIDR) program offers a crucial second chance. Understanding its intricacies is key. We announced the program originally in 2018. Through the past years, we’ve compiled essential information in the table below, followed by frequently asked questions, to help you navigate this opportunity and protect your future.

FAQ First-Time DUI Diversion (RIDR) in Hillsborough County, FL – Answers from a Former DUI Prosecutor

What is the RIDR program in Hillsborough County?

The Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism (RIDR) program is a diversion program designed for first-time DUI offenders in Hillsborough County, FL. It offers an alternative to traditional court proceedings, allowing eligible individuals to avoid a DUI conviction by successfully completing specific program requirements.

Am I eligible for the RIDR program?

Eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis. Generally, you must be a first-time DUI offender in Hillsborough County with no prior felonies and a blood alcohol content (BAC) within certain limits. Other factors may also apply. It is best to contact an attorney to assess your eligibility and guide you through the program.

What are the benefits of participating in RIDR?

The primary benefit is the potential to avoid a DUI conviction, which can have significant long-term consequences. Other benefits include avoiding a criminal record, reduced penalties, such as fines and license suspension, opportunity for rehabilitation and education, and potential for license reinstatement.

What are the requirements of the RIDR program?

The RIDR program typically includes DUI School, Victim Impact Panel, Community Service, Evaluation and recommended treatment (if applicable), and a period of supervision.

How long does the RIDR program take to complete?

The program typically lasts 6-12 months, but the exact timeframe can vary depending on individual circumstances and compliance.

What happens if I fail to complete the RIDR program?

If you fail to complete the program, you will likely face traditional court proceedings, and criminal violation charges will be pursued.

Why do I need an attorney for the RIDR program?

An experienced attorney, like W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr., can assess your eligibility for the program, guide you through the application process, represent you in court and with program officials, advocate for your best interests, ensure you understand all aspects of the program and your rights, and help mitigate any issues that arise during the process. Casey was a Prosecutor in one of the first diversion programs in Hillsborough County over 20 years ago.

How can W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr. help me with my first-time DUI case?

W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr. is an expert attorney with extensive experience in DUI cases in Hillsborough County. He can provide knowledgeable legal representation, ensuring you understand your options and helping you navigate the RIDR program or other legal avenues. Contact him at 813-222-2220 for a consultation.

What are the costs associated with the RIDR program?

Costs include program fees, evaluation fees, and legal fees. It is essential to discuss these costs with your attorney to understand the financial implications.

How do I get started with the RIDR program?

The first step is to contact an experienced DUI attorney like W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr. He can assess your case and guide you through the process. Call 813-222-2220 today.

Call 813-222-2220

• First-Time DUI Diversion
• Avoiding a Criminal Record for DUI with RIDR Program
• Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism – Established DUI Diversion
• What is the DUI Program in Tampa Hillsborough County, Florida?
• Hillsborough County DUI Penalties

Original Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism Announcement 2018

We just found out from Rena J. Frazier, Chief of Policy and Communication in the Office of the State Attorney 13th Judicial Circuit, “The State Attorney’s Office is commencing a new DUI initiative called Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism (RIDR), aimed at reducing impaired driving through enhanced sanctions. RIDR will become effective on March 1, 2018.”

Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism – RIDR

Program To Help Reduce Repeat DUI Offenders

This is breaking news. At this point, this is all we know. This includes all of Hillsborough County. Recidivism is the likelihood of a convicted criminal to carry out another crime. The new policy hopes to lessen the chance of the driver ever getting a second DUI.

This change in policy is important for drivers charged with their 1st DUI. According to Florida law, pretrial intervention programs can are available for a first time DUI driver as long as they have spoken with a lawyer, agrees to complete the program, waives the right to speedy trial, and the victim, the state, and the judge have all agreed.

“Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) in Florida and throughout the nation have raised concerns among both jurors and judges. This is because law enforcement and prosecutors aim to influence the independent judgment of these legal authorities in determining the potential impairment of criminal suspects.

We’ve acquired training manuals and carefully scrutinized the evidence supporting these so-called “experts.” Upon examination, it becomes apparent that these witnesses may not meet the rigorous requirements for the admissibility of “scientific” evidence, especially outside of law enforcement circles. Consequently, it is prudent to consider removing such witnesses from the list of prosecution witnesses.

Florida Drug Recognition Experts DRE

In just five minutes, you can gain insights into various aspects of DRE:

The History and Origin of the DRE.
The Comprehensive Training Regimen for Drug Recognition Experts (DRE).
The Entities Responsible for Conducting DRE Training.
The Unique Skillset Acquired by Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) that may not be readily available to judges and jurors.
Whether DRE “evidence” aligns with the standards for admissibility set forth by Florida law and the Daubert standard.”

Using Drug Recognition Experts (DRE), in Florida DUI cases and across the nation, law enforcement and prosecutors are trying to circumvent the ability of jurors and Judges to reach their own conclusions as to the impairment, if any, of criminal suspects.

We have obtained training manuals and reviewed the evidence used to support these “experts” and you may also conclude the ability of these witnesses to meet the stringent requirements for admissibility of “scientific” evidence is far from generally accepted within any communities other than law enforcement. Such witnesses should be stricken from Prosecutors’ witness lists. In five minutes you will know: What is the History and Origin of the DRE? What is done during Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) training? Who does the DRE training? What special skills are Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) taught that judges and jurors don’t already have? Does DRE “evidence” meet the standard for admissibility under Florida law and the Daubert standard?

What is the History and Origin of the Drug Recognition Expert (DRE}?

The Los Angeles Police Department developed this area of alleged expertise in the 1970’s. The federal law enforcement agency, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) soon jumped on the bandwagon. Strikingly, the “certification” is now issued by the cop’s own International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) and not by a generally recognized educational or scientific institution.

What is done during DRE training?

A Seven (7) day school is supposed to cover a 706-page manual. The curriculum begins by citing the Frye standard for admissibility, a standard that was abandoned in Florida in 2013 (see discussion below: Does DRE “evidence” meet the standard for admissibility under Florida law and the Daubert standard ? ).

During the 7 day romp, cops are allegedly trained in the following areas: Eye examinations; Physiology; Vital signs; the Central Nervous System; Depressants; Stimulants; Physician’s Desk Reference; Dissociative Anesthetics; Narcotic Analgesics. That is only half of the allegedly scientific in-depth training.

Let’s visit the second half of this highly accelerated educational program:  Inhalants, Vital Signs, Cannabis; Signs and Symptoms; Drug combinations; Writing a resume (Curriculum Vitae); and wrap it up with a list of questions defense attorneys will ask when the newly minted expert tries to spew this garbage in court.

Seven days to a better you – In short, street cops become quasi-medical professionals in only one week.

Who does the Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) training?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP).

What special skills are Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) taught that judges and jurors don’t already have?

None. Generally, witnesses are not allowed to opine on the guilt or innocence of the accused. When police try to use these “experts” they are attempting to tell the jury how to rule and why. Since the alleged expert issues a highly prejudicial opinion on an ultimate issue in the case, courts must allow only legally admissible evidence to reach jurors.

Does Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) “evidence” meet the standard for admissibility under Florida law and the Daubert standard? 

No. In July 2013,  Section 90.704, Florida Statutes, was amended to read: “Facts or data that are otherwise inadmissible may not be disclosed to the jury by the proponent of the opinion or inference unless the court determines that their probative value in assisting the jury to evaluate the expert’s opinion substantially outweighs their prejudicial effect.” Since, 2013, there is little guidance from courts and judges on the validity of this testimony.

Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.220 requires disclosure of “reports or statements of experts made in connection with the particular case, including results of physical or mental examinations and of scientific tests, experiments, or comparisons . . . .” The rules also discuss, “expert witnesses who have not provided a written report and a curriculum vitae or who are going to testify . . . .”  In 1996, the rules also contemplated, “experts who have filed a report and curriculum vitae and who will not offer opinions subject to the Frye test.” FRCP 3.220 at 151 Note ( July 1, 2014).

Florida Drug Recognition Experts DRE are only alleged experts who issue highly prejudicial opinions on ultimate issues in the case, courts must allow only legally admissible evidence to reach jurors under the 2013 amendments to Florida law and the ruling of the United States Supreme Court in Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 509 U.S. 579 (1993), General Electric Co. v. Joiner, 522 U.S. 136 (1997), and Kumho Tire Co. v. Carmichael, 526 U.S. 137 (1999), and to no longer apply the standard in Frye v. United States, 293 F.2d 1013 (D.C. Cir 1923) . See generally, http://laws.flrules.org/2013/107 .

Standardized 12-Step Drug Recognition Experts Protocol

The 12-Step Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) Protocol is standardized because it is conducted the same way, by every drug recognition expert, for every suspect whenever possible. In the above video, the 12-Step Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) Protocol is not shown.

1. Breath Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Test administered to suspect
2. Interview with the Arresting Officer about BAC, the reason for stop & suspect’s behavior, appearance, and driving.
3. Preliminary Examination and First Pulse. DRE asks questions about health, recent food, alcohol, and drugs, including prescribed medications while DRE observes suspect’s attitude, coordination, speech, breath, and face. DRE examines pupils uses horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN) and takes suspect’s pulse. If needed seek medical assistance immediately. Otherwise, the evaluation continues.
4. Eye Examination. behavior, appearance, and driving. DRE uses HGN, vertical gaze Nystagmus (VGN), and looks for a lack of convergence.
5. Divided Attention Psychophysical Tests. DRE administers the Modified Romberg Balance, the Walk and Turn, the One Leg Stand, and the Finger to Nose test.
6. Vital Signs and Second Pulse. DRE takes the subject’s blood pressure, temperature, and pulse.
7. Dark Room Examinations. DRE measures at pupil sizes under three different lighting conditions.
8. Examination of Muscle Tone. DRE examines the subject’s skeletal muscle tone (normal rigid, or flaccid).
9. Check for Injection Sites and Third Pulse. DRE looks for injection sites and takes suspect’s pulse.
10. Subject’s Statements and Other Observations. DRE reads Miranda, asks questions about drug use.
11. Analysis and Opinions of the Evaluator. DRE forms an opinion as the suspect is impaired. If DRE believes there is impairment, then the category of drugs will be indicated.
12. Toxicological Examination. DRE requests a urine, blood and/or saliva for toxicology lab analysis.

Sources: http://www.wsp.wa.gov/breathtest/dredocs.php