Drinking and driving is never a good mix in the State of Florida, especially when it involves children. A corrections officer was recently arrested and charged with drunk driving and child endangerment. Douglas Shultz was pulled over by Port St. Lucie police because of irrational driving moves. During the arrest, Mr. Schultz began spouting profanity and responding belligerently to the arresting officer. The officer who was involved handled himself in a professional manner, while Mr. Shultz continued to call him profane names and question the arrest motives. Schultz’s children were in the vehicle at the time. Schultz was brought in for booking and charged with DUI and child neglect. He had been previously arrested for being publicly intoxicated and fighting police officers.Douglas Schultz is facing some time in a Florida jail. This is his second alcohol-related offense and a second instance of aggressive behavior. The judge may be harsh on Schultz if he is convicted. The sentencing may be harsh due to his failure to uphold the law on several occasions. A first offense DUI charge in Florida can land a person in jail for up to six months. Additionally, a convicted party may have to pay up to $1,000 in fines. The courts may suspend the driver’s license of a convicted party for as long as one year. Furthermore, the judge could order additional tasks such as a psychiatric evaluation, substance abuse counseling or DUI school. A St. Lucie DUI Defense Attorney can help to either diminish the charges, decrease the sentence, or get the case dismissed altogether.

Child endangerment is a very serious offense in Florida. A charge of child endangerment can result in the loss of one’s children. The crime can also prompt a jail sentence of up to five years and fines of up to $5,000. A DUI criminal lawyer can help with this charge, as well. The specialist will have a challenging job proving that child neglect did not occur. Therefore, it is important for anyone who is accused of such a crime to contact a St. Lucie DUI Defense Attorney who has a strong reputation for getting the best results.

Jeffrey Garland has been practicing law for more than 20 years. He has expertise in criminal law, personal injury and domestic violence. Therefore, he has the well-rounded knowledge to defend a person fully in the courtroom. If you or someone you know has been accused of DUI or neglect, you can schedule a consultation with Jeffrey Garland by calling 772.489.2200.