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
  • "I trust this law firm so much that I refer them friends and family. They are always there for you with advice and guidance." by A.S., Past Client
  • "He takes care of everything from start to finish. If you are looking for the best, go with Don!" by Amanda S., Past Client
  • "Would recommend if looking for a law firm that is committed to every case and personal circumstance" by Cameron J., Past Client
  • "I have never felt so taken care of from an attorney. " by J. Burke, Past Client
  • "Without question, the best criminal defense attorney in Tallahassee." by J.P.M., Past Client
  • "I was referred to Mr. Pumphrey’s law firm through a mutual friend who spoke highly of him. At no surprise, he came through for me in a huge way. He was effective and efficient. If you are in need of a top notch lawyer that gets the job done, Don Pumphrey is who you need!" by Jonathan C., Past Client
  • " I am very grateful for their help and would recommend contacting them for your legal troubles" by L.C., Past Client
  • "Highly recommended if you need the best representation" by L.L., Past Client
  • ""He's one of the best lawyers in town. He's very nice and personable."" by Lashan, Former Client
  • "Don can minimize your momentary lapse in judgement!" by Laura B., Past Client
  • " I would gladly recommend his law firm to represent you or anyone else. They are the real deal." by M.H., Past Client
  • "His dedication to his clients and office is remarkable." by Matt D., 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
  • "Look no further and trust you child's case to Don Pumphrey. Please don't allow your child to settle for less. Kids will grow and learn but a bad legal decision will impact your child forever." by Rosanna O., Former 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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