Severity of DUI penalties in Florida depend on the number of previous convictions an individual has had, as well as several other extenuating factors pertaining to the incident such as any injuries or property damage in an accident caused by the drunk driver. Those facing DUI charges can seek legal help from a Fort Lauderdale DUI defense lawyer who can discuss defense strategies and possible penalties.
DUI Penalties in Florida for a First Conviction
According to our experienced Fort Lauderdale DUI defense lawyer, and well ... the law, for a first-time conviction of a DUI, a person can be fined, ordered to complete community service, be put on probation or even face imprisonment.
The possible penalties include:
- a fine of $500 to $1,000, and if BAC is higher than .15 or there was a minor in the vehicle at the time of arrest, the fine will be between $1,000 and $2,000;
- a mandatory 50 hours of community service, or $10 fine per each hour of community service required;
- up to one year probation;
- up to six months in jail or, if BAC was .15 or higher or a minor was in the vehicle, up to nine months; and/or
- vehicle impoundment for up to 10 days.
If the driver caused injury or property damage while committing the DUI, he/she could also face a first-degree misdemeanor charge that carries a maximum $1,000 fine and up to one year in prison. Fort Lauderdale DUI defense lawyer Robert Malove will evaluate the specific circumstances of the DUI charges to determine possible penalties.
Second Conviction DUI Penalties in Florida
Upon a second DUI conviction, penalties are steeper, including higher fines, more jail time and long-term vehicle impoundment.
Second conviction DUI penalties in Florida include:
- a fine of $1,000 to $2,000 or, if BAC was .15 or if a minor was in the car, $2,000 to $4,000;
- up to nine months in jail or, if BAC was .15 or a minor was in the vehicle, up to one year, and if the second conviction happened within five years of the first, the suspect must face mandatory imprisonment for at least 10 days; and/or
- vehicle impoundment of up to 30 days if second conviction within five years of first.
Penalties for Third and Fourth Convictions
Total penalties could include:
- fines from $2,000 to $5,000;
- jail time up to one year if third conviction more than 10 years;
- vehicle impoundment of up to 90 days if convictions are within 10 years; and/or
- a third-degree felony charge which carries up to five years imprisonment or a $5,000 fine.
Contact Our Fort Lauderdale DUI Defense Laywer to Fight Your DUI Charges
Anyone who is facing DUI charges in Florida should contact our experienced Fort Lauderdale DUI defense lawyer as soon as possible to begin building their defense. Contact our firm online or give us a call at (954) 861-0384 to review your possible DUI penalties in Florida.
