Over 100 Not Guilty Verdicts At Trial | Over 2,000 Dismissals

* Statistics Verified by County Clerk of Court Documents

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Client Testimonials
  • "He takes care of everything from start to finish. If you are looking for the best, go with Don!" by Amanda S., Past Client
  • "Mr. Pumphrey rescued my family in a time of crisis. A simple traffic stop turned into out-of-state incarceration for my adult son. Our family has zero experience with needing legal counsel. We were referred to Mr. Pumphrey by another lawyer based on his reputation. Mr Pumphrey was knowledgeable about the out-of-state circumstances and educated us on the complexities of the situation. He and his staff answered and/or returned every phone call promptly. They were able to resolve this in a week’s time. The charges were dropped and my son was released. Mr. Pumphrey will always have my eternal gratitude. His knowledge, actions, and ability to resolve this quickly saved my son." by Amy C., Past Client
  • "Mr. Pumphrey and his staff are true experts at interpretation of the law and worked hard to protect my rights." by Anonymous (Google Review 3), Past Client
  • "I would trust him with my case 10/10 times, A+ lawyer!" by D. Hoffman, Past Client
  • "He took his time with my case and made sure to get me the best results." by David H., Past Client
  • "I have never felt so taken care of from an attorney. " by J. Burke, Past Client
  • "When the quality of rest of your life is at stake go with Don trust me he has literally saved my life more then once" by J. Smith, Past Client
  • "Don Pumphrey and his staff will fight unremittingly for your your rights!" by J.C., Past Client
  • "Without question, the best criminal defense attorney in Tallahassee." by J.P.M., Past Client
  • "Don can minimize your momentary lapse in judgement!" by Laura B., Past Client
  • "They were there for me every step of the way and I never felt like just another case to them." by Lauren J., Past Client
  • "The best in the Southeast!" by Mike T., Past Client
  • " Look no further and trust you child's case to Don Pumphrey. Please don't allow your child to settle for less. " by R.O., Parent of Past Client
  • "If he is involved in your case, you can expect a thorough and compassionate experience with a very good outcome" by Ruth A., Relative of Past Client
  • "One of the finest criminal attorney's in the big bend area" by Terry B., Past Client

DHSMV Formal Review Hearing FAQ

*Click here for more Tallahassee Criminal Defense FAQ

What is a DUI Formal Review hearing?

This hearing is essentially an appeal filed with the DHSMV with the goal of possibly eliminating the driver’s license suspension.

Why request a formal review hearing?

When being charged with a DUI in Florida, the arresting officer typically issues a DUI citation which serves as notice of the administrative suspension, which begins right after the arrest. The benefit of requesting a DHSMV Formal Review Hearing is that the suspension may be ruled as invalidated. There are many circumstances which can result in winning of the hearing and even if the suspension is not reversed, this hearing gives your DUI attorney a chance to question each witness under-oath before the prosecutor has a chance to see the file. It is possible to win a DUI case during pre-trial motions or even at trial due to something that happens at the Formal Review Hearing.

How do I apply for the formal review hearing?

To apply for a Formal Review Hearing in Florida with the DHSMV, the defendant must submit an application for Formal Review. When submitting this request, one must include $25 to cover the filing fee, along with a copy of the DUI citation. If you would like to have one of our experienced DUI attorneys file an application for formal review hearing on your behalf, contact us today.

Do I Need to Attend the Formal Review Hearing?

If you have already retained an attorney for your DUI, it is best to ask them if your attendance is required. In many cases, if the defendant has private counsel, their attendance is not required at the Formal Review Hearing

What is the “10 day rule?”

After being arrested for DUI, you only have 10 days to request a Formal Review Hearing with the DHSMV to contest the administrative suspension of your driver’s license. If you have just been arrested for a DUI and want to file a Formal Review Hearing, contact an experienced DUI lawyer today. Filing this request gives you the chance to get a 42-day hardship license so you can still drive to work while your DUI attorney fights the criminal charges.

Florida DHSMV Formal Review Hearing Resources

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