DUI Information That You Must Know

Florida is a state that is notorious for being tough on crime and, DUI is a criminal act. So, it’s no surprise that Florida has some heavy consequences for anyone who is driving while intoxicated or under the influence.

There are a number of things at risk when you are charged with a DUI. A conviction could have disastrous effects on your ability to possess a firearm, get a job, get an apartment, get a bank account or loan, and more.

Not to mention, if you are currently in a custody battle with an ex-spouse and you are arrested and charged with DUI – you may lose your visitation rights or your custody all together. If you are convicted of a felony DUI you could even be deported if you are here on a green card.

The various circumstances of your arrest and your case will heavily influence the severity of your consequences but, the fact is your life and your future are both in jeopardy when you have been arrested for DUI.

Some of the basic penalties in Florida for DUI include:

Your first DUI offense will come with these consequences.

  • Depending on your passengers and your BAC, up to $2,000 in fines
  • Mandatory 50 hours of community service
  • Your license will be revoked for up to 12 months
  • You will be placed on probation
  • You could spend up to 9-months in jail
  • You will have to complete a full term of DUI school
  • Your vehicle will be impounded
  • If you had a minor in your vehicle or your BAC was more than .15% – you will be required to have an Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle and you will be required to pay for it

Your second DUI offense will come with these consequences:

  • Depending on your passengers and your BAC, up to $4,000 in fines
  • Mandatory 9 to 12 months in jail
  • Your license will be revoked for up to five years
  • You must complete DUI school
  • Your vehicle will be impounded
  • You will be required to have an Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle and you will be required to pay for it

Your third DUI offense will come with these consequences:

  • Depending on your passengers and your BAC, up to $5,000 in fines
  • Up to 12 months in jail
  • Your license will be revoked for at least ten years
  • Your vehicle will be impounded
  • You will be required to have an Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle and you will be required to pay for it

While the specific circumstances of your case will ultimately determine which of these consequences you are sentenced to – this is the buffet to choose from. None of them are very appetizing. If you have been arrested for DUI, make sure to contact a qualified and experienced Florida DUI lawyer right away. It is important to protect your rights from the very beginning of your case.

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