Although most DUI (driving under the influence) cases are charged as misdemeanors, certain DUI offenses are classified as felonies as per Florida law. A third DUI arrest that occurs within 10 years of a DUI conviction(regardless of how remote the first one was) or a DUI crash that resulted in serious bodily injury or death will be classified as felonies, with the potential penalty being a period of state prison incarceration.
A Florida felony DUI charge requires the special attention of a criminal defense lawyer who knows the particular defense techniques and strategies associated with a felony or multiple DUI case. Often the first and best place to start to work to have your felony DUI charge reduced to a misdemeanor, where the penalties are not so harsh. In a multiple DUI case, this may include discrediting your previous driving under the influence convictions. In other cases, this may include experts to discredit your blood alcohol evidence. By working with the prosecution from the beginning, your felony DUI attorney will make sure the only evidence and information seen is not just what the police have provided, but that your side of the story is made known.
In Florida, a typical DUI charge is escalated into a felony charge by one or more of the following factors
DUI resulting in an injury accident
DUI resulting in a fatal accident
3rd DUI conviction within 3 years of prior convictions
4th DUI conviction, at any time
Often a person with a felony multiple DUI conviction will have to have in ignition interlock device (IID) installed in their car, which acts as a breathalyzer and tests your blood alcohol level. The car will not start unless the test is passed.
Avoid the stress and difficulty of a felony conviction. Work with a felony DUI lawyer at Finebloom & Haenel who can work to reduce your charges, sentence or even get your case dismissed.
Arrested for a felony DUI in Florida? Contact us today!