A first-time DUI diversion of prosecution after a DUI arrest in Hillsborough County can be overwhelming. Understanding the RIDR program, designed to reduce DUI recidivism, is crucial for those seeking a path to resolution. This guide provides essential Q&A and a detailed table summarizing the program’s eligibility, benefits, and restrictions, offering clarity to individuals facing DUI charges and exploring their diversion options. If you’re looking for expert legal guidance, especially concerning the details found below, contact Casey the Lawyer at DUI2Go.com to discuss your case.
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:
Category
Details
Program Goal
Reduce DUI recidivism and improve community safety in Hillsborough County.
Eligibility
Misdemeanor DUI, BAC < 0.200%, no crash, no prior DUI-related offenses, no children in vehicle, limited prior diversions, no recent felony convictions.
Case Selection
State Attorney’s Office discretion, individual case evaluation.
10-day vehicle immobilization, no alcohol/drug consumption, payment of court costs, DUI school completion.
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.
Feature
Description
Benefits for Client
Program Name
Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism (RIDR)
Opportunity to avoid a DUI conviction.
Eligibility
First-time DUI offense in Hillsborough County, FL. Specific criteria apply (e.g., no prior felonies, limited BAC).
Access to a diversion program instead of traditional court proceedings.
Program Components
Expert attorney W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr. (813-222-2220) provides guidance and advocacy.
Structured rehabilitation and accountability.
Potential Outcomes
Upon successful completion, charges may be reduced or dismissed.
Avoidance of a criminal record, reduced penalties, and potential license reinstatement.
Navigating the complexities of the program with experienced legal counsel.
Timeframe
Typically 6-12 months, depending on individual circumstances.
A defined period for rehabilitation and compliance.
Cost
Program fees, evaluation costs, and legal fees.
Investment in avoiding long-term consequences of a DUI.
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.
Original Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism Announcement 2018
RIDR A New Hillsborough County DUI Initiative
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.
If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Florida, it’s important to find a reputable DUI attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Casey the Lawyer is a well-known DUI expert in Florida who has been providing legal representation for over 20 years. Here are some key questions to ask when hiring a DUI attorney:
Is the Lawyer Board Certified?
Board certification is an important factor to consider when hiring a DUI attorney. Board certification means that the lawyer has been recognized by the Florida Bar as having significant experience and knowledge in a particular area of law, in this case, DUI defense. Casey the Lawyer is a board-certified criminal trial attorney, which means he has demonstrated a high level of proficiency in criminal defense law.
Is the Lawyer Experienced?
Experience is key when it comes to DUI defense. You want a lawyer who has handled many cases like yours and has a proven track record of success. Casey the Lawyer has been practicing law for over 20 years and has represented countless clients in DUI cases. He has a deep understanding of the legal system and knows how to develop effective defense strategies.
Will you receive Personal Attention?
Personal attention is important when it comes to working with a DUI attorney. You want a lawyer who will take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and keep you informed throughout the legal process. Casey the Lawyer prides himself on providing personalized attention to his clients. He works closely with each client to develop a tailored defense strategy and keeps his clients informed every step of the way.
Is the Lawyer a Former DUI Prosecutor?
Having a former DUI prosecutor on your side can be a significant advantage in your case. A lawyer who has worked on the other side of the aisle knows how the prosecution thinks and can anticipate their strategies. Casey the Lawyer is a former DUI prosecutor and has a deep understanding of how the prosecution approaches these cases.
Is the Lawyer a Criminal Defense Expert?
While it’s important to find a lawyer who specializes in DUI defense, it’s also important to find a lawyer who has a broad range of criminal defense experience. This is because DUI cases often involve other criminal charges, such as reckless driving, drug possession, or even assault. Casey the Lawyer is a board-certified criminal trial attorney, which means he has extensive experience in a wide range of criminal defense cases.
In conclusion, hiring a reputable DUI attorney is essential if you’ve been charged with a DUI in Florida. Casey the Lawyer is an experienced and knowledgeable DUI expert who can help you navigate the legal system and achieve the best possible outcome for your case. By asking the key questions outlined above, you can ensure that you hire the right lawyer for your needs.
A useful checklist for hiring a DUI Attorney. Call and ask these Questions:
1. Is the Lawyer Board Certified?
2. Is the Lawyer Experienced?
3. Will you receive Personal Attention?
4. Is the Lawyer a Former DUI Prosecutor?
5. Is the Lawyer a Criminal Defense Expert?
In Florida, less than 1/2 of 1 percent of Lawyers are Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law. Some, but not all Criminal Defense Attorneys are former prosecutors. Former DUI Prosecutors know how the justice system works from inside the office that is seeking your conviction for the crime of Driving Under the Influence. Some firms practice law all over the state with hundreds of open cases in several jurisdictions but we have specialized in this region of Florida.
FAQ – More Questions to Ask in Choosing a Lawyer
FAQ
Why is board certification important for a DUI lawyer?
Board certification from the Florida Bar signifies specialized expertise and recognized proficiency in criminal trial law. This distinction demonstrates a lawyer’s commitment and proven ability in handling complex DUI cases, providing clients with added assurance of their legal capabilities.
How does a lawyer’s experience impact a DUI case?
Experienced lawyers have developed proven strategies and a track record of successful DUI defenses through years of practice. Their familiarity with local courts and prosecutors allows them to navigate the legal system more effectively, increasing the chances of a favorable outcome.
Why is personal attention crucial when hiring a DUI attorney?
Personal attention ensures your case receives tailored strategies and consistent communication, fostering a strong attorney-client relationship. A lawyer who listens and responds to your concerns provides reassurance and keeps you informed throughout the legal process, which is vital during stressful times.
How does a former DUI prosecutor benefit my defense?
A former DUI prosecutor understands prosecution tactics and can anticipate their strategies, giving your defense a strategic advantage. Having worked on the other side, they possess insider knowledge of how prosecutors build cases, allowing them to identify weaknesses and build a stronger defense.
Why seek a lawyer with broader criminal defense experience?
DUI cases can often involve other criminal charges, such as reckless driving or drug possession, requiring diverse legal expertise. A lawyer with a comprehensive criminal defense background can address all aspects of your case, ensuring a holistic and effective defense strategy.
What advantage does local specialization offer?
Local specialization means the lawyer focuses on specific regional courts and their unique practices, developing a deep understanding of local laws and procedures. This familiarity with local judges and prosecutors can be invaluable in crafting a defense tailored to the specific jurisdiction.
Why be concerned about DUI arrest quotas?
DUI arrest quotas may indicate a focus on arrests over accurate legal procedures, potentially leading to errors in your case. This pressure can compromise the integrity of investigations and lead to wrongful arrests, making it crucial to have a lawyer who scrutinizes every detail.
What does an invalidated DUI checkpoint mean for my case?
An invalidated DUI checkpoint could indicate procedural errors that weaken the prosecution’s case, as it suggests law enforcement may have violated protocol. If the checkpoint was deemed unlawful, any evidence collected during the stop could be challenged, potentially leading to dismissal of charges.
How does knowledge of DUI hotspots help my attorney?
Knowledge of DUI hotspots provides insight into where and how DUI enforcement occurs in the area, allowing your attorney to anticipate common police tactics. This information helps in developing targeted defense strategies, as your attorney can examine if the stop was based on legitimate reasons or potentially questionable practices.
Why are video case reviews important?
Video case reviews provide real examples of DUI stops and legal challenges, illustrating how specific laws and procedures are applied in practice. These visuals offer a clearer understanding of potential defenses and help clients visualize the complexities of DUI cases, leading to better informed decisions.
Video – How to Find and Then Choose a Hillsborough DUI Attorney
This video narrates a recent visit to a DUI Checkpoint. This includes DUI Attorney Casey Ebsary mapping the DUI hot spots in the Hillsborough County Florida area. The St. Petersburg Times reports that in one area, “Town ‘N Country, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s DUI deputies make sure they monitor that portion of the county every single night.”
Brandon: 412 | Town ‘N Country: 226 | New Tampa: 195 DUI Arrests.
Video – How to Find and Choose a Pasco DUI Lawyer
Narrates a recent visit to a DUI Checkpoint. Here is what we saw. There is a Pasco Florida Highway Patrol Arrest Contest. Florida DUI Attorney Lawyer continues to be concerned with the game that some police agencies have made out of DUI arrests. DUI cops in Pasco County Florida set out to break a record of some sort. Then informed the media that a DUI record was broken. The headline reads: “Trooper sets records for DUI arrests.”
Trooper Ron Evans and his colleague “fellow Trooper Richard Arias focus a lot of attention of U.S. 19” so says Fox News in Tampa, Florida. “Evans has developed a well-known reputation for getting suspected drunk drivers off the streets. Last year, he made 238 arrests; back in 2004, he arrested 300.” says Fox News. Arias became a Trooper less than a year ago.
Video – How to Select and or Choose a Pinellas DUI Attorney
DUI Pinellas Attorney Lawyer 1-877-793-9290 or 813-222-2220 – Casey Narrates a video where recently we visited a DUI Checkpoint. In the meantime, a Pinellas DUI Checkpoint was invalidated.
Pinellas DUI checkpoint was invalidated. Pinellas DUI checkpoint was invalidated. The problem with this case is not with the Plan itself, but rather the lack of evidence that the Plan was complied with in conducting the traffic stop of the defendant. The competent substantial evidence is ”sufficiently relevant and material that a reasonable mind would accept it as adequate to support the conclusion reached.” See Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles v. Trimble, 821 So.2d 1084, 1087 (Fla. 1st DCA 2002) (citing DeGroot v. Sheffield, 95 So.2d 912, 916 (Fla. 1957)).
Video – How to Go About Choosing a Tampa DUI Attorney
Call 813-222-2220 Help for You, a friend, or Loved One. In this video DUI Tampa Attorney Lawyer discusses how to choose an Attorney. Meanwhile, Tampa DUI Charges are Dropped amidst a huge scandal at the Tampa Police Department – Video Updates
Tampa DUI Scandal Update: Call our Tipline at 813-222-2220 if you have information about this story. Looking to shore up confidence after a controversial DUI arrest, the Tampa Police department is launching a review of several dozen DUI …Tampa DUI Scandal – read more
Tampa DUI Lawyer Just reviewed video of a Deputy Sheriff – he Crashes and then Refuses to take a Breath Test. Watch Florida Highway Patrol Video that shows the arrest. Allegations have arisen that the deputy told witnesses they did not need to remain at the scene of the alleged Florida DUI crash. Standby for more details on this breaking story.
Tampa DUI Scandal Update:
Call our Tipline at 813-222-2220 if you have information about this story. Looking to shore up confidence after a controversial DUI arrest, the Tampa Police department is launching a review of several dozen DUI cases. The subjects of the investigation – the cases involving two Officers: Ray Fernandez, Tim McGinnis. We have suspected that DUI cops were watching people and places for reasons they often would not admit. To his credit, the officer in the video below tells us they watch parking lots, act on tips received by phone and other types of electronic messages. We have protected the identity of one officer and give him credit for testifying so candidly. Tips to watch locations come from Phone Calls from Bar Managers, letters, pictures he says, “I get all kinds of stuff.”
Tampa DUI AttorneyReviews Supreme Court on Blood Draws and notes that today the Supreme Court holds that in DUI investigations the natural dissipation of alcohol in the bloodstream does not constitute an exigency to justify warrantless blood test. The Court affirmed the decision of the Supreme Court of Missouri, concluding that “the natural dissipation of alcohol in the bloodstream does not establish a per se exigency that suffices on its own to justify an exception to the warrant requirement for nonconsensual blood testing in drunk-driving investigations.”
In DUI / drunk-driving investigations, the natural dissipation of alcohol in the bloodstream does not constitute per se exigency sufficient to justify an exception to Fourth Amendment’s warrant requirement for nonconsensual blood testing. The principle that a warrantless search of the person is reasonable only if it falls within a recognized exception applies where the search involves a compelled physical intrusion beneath the person’s skin and into his veins to obtain a blood sample to use as evidence in a criminal investigation. Natural dissipation of alcohol in the blood may support an exigency finding in a specific case, but it does not do so categorically. Whether a warrantless blood test of a drunk-driving suspect is reasonable must be determined case by case based on the totality of the circumstances.
Video – Choosing a Polk DUI Defense Lawyer Attorney
A Polk DUI Defense Lawyer Attorney can help you, a friend or a loved one. Call 1-877-793-9290 to discuss your case. DUI or Drunk Driving is a serious charge to have on your driving record in Polk County. You need a serious defense.
Polk County DUI Attorney reports on the DUI Drug court division established by Judge Ronald A. Herring. The Judge ordered that any multiple DUI offender may have the option of DUI Court as part of a plea offer. If allowed the plea offer and the case of the multiple DUI offender transfers into the Polk County DUI defendant’s case to the Judge presiding over DUI or Drug Court occur. The DUI/Drug Court shall be a condition of the offender’s probation. Also involved in the DUI Court are: Judges, Assistant State Attorneys, Defense Attorneys, County Probation, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Lakeland Police Department Offices, AA representatives, and MADD representatives.
Other Topics Include:
How To, Reviews , Compare, DUI Hillsborough Lawyer, Pinellas DUI Lawyer, Tampa DUI Lawyer, Polk DUI Lawyer, Pasco DUI Lawyer, dui checkpoint, dui
First of all, some of the confusion of this process is shown below. Since each county has developed their program independently, the demands on the DUI driver differ. Therefore for help, call (813) 222-2220. In Orange and Osceola Counties, only legal U.S. residents can join the DUI Diversion Program. As a result, a tourist, a foreign national or someone on an F1 student visa charged with a DUI could never enter the DUI Diversion program in the Ninth Circuit Court. In Miami-Dade County, there is no upper limit on your breath alcohol concentration (BAC) to make you ineligible. But that same county requires that you sign a statement of guilt before entering. Three of the Circuit Courts (8th, 11th, and 15th) will refuse your admission if a child or animal was with you in the vehicle at the time of the charge. Another difference is that only the 8th Circuit Court will use drunken aggression as a reason to deny your access to the program.
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.
