John Musca Law

John Musca on Xanax DUI Arrests Increasing in Florida

Criminal Defense Attorney John Musca cautions that prescription drugs should only be used by people to whom they are prescribed.  He finds it unfortunate that facts indicate driving under the influence of the prescription anti-anxiety drug Xanax and either alcohol, or marijuana, has increased substantially over the past decade in the State of Florida.  

One Florida county found that 177 DUI suspects had Xanax in their system last year, as compared to 1998 and only four DUI suspects were found to have the drug in their system. Officers in this county rank Xanax, cocaine, and marijuana as the most common drugs that suspects are found to be under the influence of during arrests. Ten years ago Xanax was prescribed to far fewer people and was not as readily available on the streets.

John Musca warns that Xanax and other prescription drugs can be a very dangerous combination with alcohol, or marijuana.  Xanax, generally known as Alazopam, is prescribed to treat panic disorders. While this drug is not as strong as methadone, or even as popular as some painkillers, Xanax has the effect of intensifying intoxication from alcohol. The combination of Xanax and alcohol could be as potent as three or more drinks. The pill can create a euphoric feeling within users, making it popular with people looking for a quick high. Last year 37.5 million prescriptions of Xanax were written. Xanax is easily available illegally and can be purchased for people with prescriptions, or from less reputable websites.

As an experienced DUI defense attorney, John Musca has handled thousands of Florida DUI cases and has definitely seen an increase in Xanax DUI arrests.  He feels it is important to create an awareness of the fact what might seem like one drink, may actually be equivalent to a couple or more when under the influence of a prescription drug like Xanax.

Whether you have been arrested on your first, second, third, or other drunk driving offense, an experienced DUI defense lawyer at Musca Law can advise you of your rights. Our attorneys’ 100 plus years of combined legal experience has enabled us to successfully resolve DUI charges for clients in Key West and throughout Monroe County. Let us put our experience and knowledge to work aggressively defending you and your rights.

Our lawyers are well versed in the Florida DUI laws and can effectively explain how a conviction may impact your life and future. We approach each case as a team, combining the skills and knowledge of our attorneys to ensure that we offer you representation that is tailored to suit the specifics of your case. If you have been arrested for or charged with driving under the influence in Monroe County, call our Key West office at (305) 292-8488.

Driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol is a serious offense and is taken seriously by law enforcement and our firm. We take the time to explain your situation and aggressively stand up for your rights regarding any misdemeanor or felony charges that may apply. We also represent clients charged with vehicular homicide Link to Traffic Offenses Page in connection with a drunk driving accident.

Working to Help you Keep Your Driver’s License

Your driver’s license is in jeopardy from the moment you are arrested on suspicion of DUI / drunk driving. Since our firm has handled numerous DUI / drunk driving cases for clients across Key West and the entire state of Florida, we have a full understand the repercussions that a DUI arrest and/or conviction can have on your driver’s license. If you do not file for an administrative review hearing within 10 days of your arrest, you will sustain an immediate driver’s license suspension.

John Musca - DUI Attorney

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI) is a serious offense. A DUI may cause you to lose you drivers’ license, to receive an exorbitant fine, to watch your insurance rates skyrocket, and may even cause you to lose your freedom.

The penalties are even more serious if you were involved in an accident or vehicular homicide while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

You should know you only have 10 days from the date you were arrested for DUI to request an administrative review hearing to retain your driving privileges.

How Our Experienced Florida DUI Attorney Team Can Help

Our team of criminal defense attorneys has over 100 years of combined experience. We will investigate the constitutionality of the stop, the procedures used in obtaining evidence, the constitutionality of any statements you gave, and the accuracy of any tests administered.

We have the experience and understanding to represent you if you have been charged with an alcohol related offense. We are equipped to handle your criminal hearing as well as the formal administrative review hearing regarding the retention of your driving privileges.