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If you've been involved in a crash while driving under the influence and someone else was injured, you may be facing aggravated DUI charges. These felony charges carry severe penalties and can significantly impact the rest of your life.
At the Law Offices of Robert David Malove, our experienced DUI defense lawyers have helped countless clients in Palm Beach County, including West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Palm Beach Gardens, Delray Beach, and Jupiter, defend against these charges. Fort Lauderdale DUI lawyer Robert Malove brings decades of experience to your defense. As a founding member of the National College of DUI Defense and a Florida Bar Board Certified Criminal Trial Law attorney, he has the knowledge and skills needed to build a strong case on your behalf. Our team will work tirelessly to protect your future and seek the best possible outcome in your case.
What Is Aggravated DUI With Injuries in Florida?
Under Florida Statute § 316.1931(c), a DUI offense can be elevated to a third-degree felony when the incident results in serious bodily injury to another person. This is much more serious than DUI with property damage, which is a misdemeanor in Florida. According to Florida Statutes § 316.1933(b), serious bodily injury is defined as an injury that:
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Poses a substantial risk of death
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Causes significant personal disfigurement
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Leads to long-term loss or impairment of a body function or organ
Some examples of injuries that could qualify as serious bodily injury include:
- Fractured or broken bones
- Damage to the spinal cord
- Loss of limbs or amputation
- Serious burns
- Deep lacerations on the face or permanent scarring
- Traumatic brain injuries affecting cognitive function
- Permanent loss of vision or hearing
- Paralysis or long-term impairment of mobility
If you've been involved in a DUI accident that caused any of these types of injuries to another person, it's crucial to seek the guidance of our skilled DUI defense lawyers, who can help you understand the charges you're facing and develop a strong defense strategy.
What Are the Penalties for Aggravated DUI With Injury in Palm Beach County?
If you're convicted of aggravated DUI causing injury in West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Palm Beach Gardens, Delray Beach, or Jupiter, you could face these enhanced penalties:
- Up to 5 years in prison
- Fines up to $5,000
- Driver's license revocation for at least 3 years
- Installation of an ignition interlock device on your vehicle
- DUI school and substance abuse treatment
- Community service hours
- Probation with strict conditions
Additionally, a felony DUI conviction can impact your employment prospects, professional licenses, housing options, and reputation in the community. With so much at stake, having our skilled DUI defense attorneys on your side is crucial.
What Defenses Are Available in Aggravated DUI Injury Cases?
While your situation may seem overwhelming, several strong defenses could apply in your case that could result in the charges being dismissed or reduced to a less serious offense. Here are a few of the legal defenses we may use to fight your charges:
- Challenging the legality of the traffic stop. If the police did not have probable cause to stop your vehicle, any evidence obtained during the stop may be inadmissible in court, and your case could be dismissed.
- Disputing the accuracy of test results. Field sobriety and breathalyzer tests are not always reliable and can be affected by various factors, such as medical conditions or improper administration.
- Raising violations of your constitutional rights. If the police violated your constitutional rights, such as failing to advise you of your right to remain silent or to an attorney, we may be able to get crucial evidence being used against you suppressed.
- Arguing that the accident was caused by factors other than impairment. If the crash was caused by poor road conditions, mechanical issues, or another driver's actions, this could be used to challenge the aggravated DUI charges.
How Our Palm Beach County DUI Defense Lawyers Can Help
Don't let an aggravated DUI charge jeopardize your freedom and future. At the Law Offices of Robert David Malove, our legal team is dedicated to providing you with an aggressive defense if you’re facing felony DUI with injuries charges. Here are some benefits of hiring us:
- Develop your defense strategy. We’ll thoroughly review your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence and develop a tailored defense strategy to fight the charges you face.
- Keep you informed. Our attorneys will provide clear communication and guidance throughout the legal process, ensuring you understand your rights and options.
- Negotiate a plea bargain. If it’s in your best interests, we’ll negotiate a plea agreement with the prosecutor to reduce the charges or penalties you face.
- Take your case to trial. We are committed to protecting your future and fighting for the best possible outcome, including presenting your defenses at a jury trial if this is your best option.
