There are various mandatory DUI penalties which are mandatory for a DUI conviction in the State of Florida. These include: fines, driver’s license suspension, jail time, community service, probation, DUI school, vehicle impoundment and ignition interlock device installation.
DUI is a serious criminal offense involving driving with a blood or breath alcohol level at or above .08%, or driving while one’s normal abilities are impaired due to alcohol or a controlled substance. Whether you are convicted for an unlawful blood alcohol concentration or impaired abilities, the penalties are the same. A driver may face increased penalties for specific factors:
A blood alcohol concentration of .15% or greater
A minor in the vehicle at the time of the offense
Prior DUI convictions
Causing an auto accident that results in injury or death
Leaving the scene of an accident while DUI
Although, not necessary mandatory under the law, the state attorney will move for increased sanctions if there is a prior DUI conviction, a crash occurred, there is injury involved, or you left the scene of the accident. A sentence involving jail time is a distinct possibility, at least initially, depending on the facts of the case.
If you have previous DUI convictions, then the penalties may result in the following maximum penalties:
- Second DUI (within 5 years):
Up to $2,000 in fines, 5 year license suspension, 1 year probation, 10 day – 12 month jail sentence. - Third DUI (within 10 years):
Up to $5,000 in fines, 10 year license suspension, 30 day to 12 month jail sentence, 2 year probation. - Fourth DUI (at any time):
Possible felony charge, up to $5,000 in fines, permanent license suspension, up to 5 years imprisonment, 5 year probation.
Working with the right DUI lawyer will positively impact your case. Even for a first DUI offense you may face up to 6 months in jail as well as fines and driver’s license revocation for up to 1 year. Additional penalties may also be imposed. You need an attorney to take aggressive action and protect you during all court proceedings and at your DMV hearing. The legal team at Finebloom, Haenel, and Higgins is more than qualified to handle your case.
Contact our firm today to talk to an attorney about your DUI case -1-888-781-9696.