Being arrested for DUI, or Driving Under the Influence, must be taken seriously. These charges are treated uniquely under the Florida criminal justice system, and even a mere DUI charge will have an impact on driver’s license.
A DUI conviction can have negative effects on most aspects of your life. It can result in incarceration, heavy fines, and a suspended/revoked license. At the DUI Defense Clinic, our lawyers care about protecting your future, and vow to provide you with dependable, assertive, and preeminent legal counsel and representation.
Florida DUI Charges
The outcome of the penalties you receive can differ significantly depending on the attorney you select.
DUI First Offense
You may be charged with a DUI First Offense if you have never had a previous DUI. Possible penalties from this charge include:
- Jail
- Driver’s License Suspension
- Vehicle Impound
- Ignition Interlock
- Probation
- Fines
- Community Service
- DUI School
- Significant Increase in Insurance Premiums
DUI Second Offense
A DUI Second Offense carries stiffer penalties than a DUI First Offense and is further broken down into two categories, “Second DUI” and “Second DUI within 5.” A Second DUI within 5 means that you received your second DUI within 5 years after your first DUI. The penalties for a Second Offense within 5 are significantly more severe than a Second DUI.
DUI Third Offense
A DUI Third Offense may be considered a misdemeanor or a felony. The determination is made primarily based on the time frame in which the DUIs were received. If classified as a felony, a DUI Third Offense can result in a five-year prison sentence.
Driving Under the Influence of Drugs
Many people are not aware that a conviction for Driving Under the Influence of Drugs, or DUID, can result in the same stiff penalties as a DUI conviction. They are also not aware that the drugs involved do not have to be illegal substances but can be prescribed by a physician. As long as the individual’s “normal faculties are impaired,” they can be charged with DUI.
Boating Under the Influence (BUI)
Operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense that can result in incarceration, fines, and probation. Subsequent BUIs have more stringent penalties than a first offense BUI.
Contact the DUI Defense Clinic
At the DUI Defense Clinic, we combine our extensive experience handling DUI cases with our courtroom skills to provide you with the best defense possible. The earlier we become involved in your case, the more likely you will have a positive outcome. We encourage you to contact us today to schedule your free initial consultation.
