Understanding the Consequences of a DUI in Florida
What happens when you get a DUI in Florida? In this article, our criminal defense attorneys share three consequences of a DUI conviction.
With the holidays approaching, Florida officials warn of the dangers of drinking and driving. November and December are notorious for driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWI) arrests. However, Florida has higher DUI or DWI statistics than other states. According to the Annual Uniform Traffic Citation Report from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Florida law enforcement made 44,185 DUI arrests in 2023.
At Avera & Smith, our criminal defense attorneys have defended hundreds of clients against DUI/DWI, underage drinking and similar charges. We pride ourselves on having significant criminal jury trial experience as well as an extensive knowledge of the law, trial preparation and technique. Our attorneys will protect your rights and provide you with the highest caliber of criminal defense necessary.
If you ever find yourself in this situation and need the best DUI lawyer in Gainesville, Ocala, Lake City, Jacksonville, or The Villages, contact us for a free consultation.
What are the consequences of a DUI in Florida?
A DUI conviction in Florida can carry severe and long-lasting consequences. Beyond initial fines, court fees, and potential jail time, a DUI can lead to the suspension of your driver’s license and mandatory DUI school. For repeat offenses, penalties become more severe, with extended jail time, higher fines, and longer license suspensions. Additionally, DUI convictions can lead to increased insurance rates, difficulty securing employment, and even restrictions on travel.
To help you better understand what happens when you get a DUI in Florida, our attorneys provide information on potential consequences of your arrest and/or conviction. However, every case is different, so the best thing you can do is contact our firm for a free consultation to learn more about your unique situation.
Immediate legal penalties
A first DUI offense in Florida can result in fines ranging from $500 to $1,000, community service, and up to six months in jail, depending on the severity of the offense and blood alcohol content (BAC). For BACs above 0.15% or cases involving minors in the vehicle, penalties may increase. Repeat offenders face harsher consequences, including mandatory minimum jail sentences, increased fines, and the installation of an ignition interlock device.
Long-term financial and social impact
DUIs can leave a significant financial burden, with insurance premiums rising and potential costs for substance abuse programs. Additionally, the criminal record associated with a DUI can impact future employment opportunities, particularly in fields requiring background checks or clean driving records.
Consequences for driving privileges
After a DUI conviction, Florida law mandates the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, varying in length based on prior offenses. In addition, your vehicle could be impounded for a period of time. The process to reinstate a license involves fulfilling specific legal requirements, including attending DUI school, paying fines, and, in some cases, installing an interlock device. However, Florida Statute 318.14 provides guidelines for drivers to pay fines for certain infractions, attend traffic school, and potentially avoid points on their driving records. Therefore, depending on the type of citation, including some noncriminal traffic citations, refusal to sign to sign the summons can result in a second degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fines.
DUI penalties in Florida based on number of offenses
Below are the potential criminal penalties for a DUI based on the number of offenses:
- First conviction: Up to a year in jail, or a fine between $600 and $2,100, or both. Driver’s license suspended for 90 days.
- Second conviction (within five years): Mandatory jail time of at least five days, but up to one year, or instead, mandatory community service for at least 30 days. Mandatory fine of between $1,100 and $5,100. Driver’s license revoked for a year.
- Third conviction: Mandatory jail time of at least 60 days, but up to one year. Mandatory fine of between $2,100 and $10,100. Driver’s license revoked for three years.
- Fourth or subsequent conviction: Counts as a “Class C felony.” Mandatory jail time of at least one year, but up to ten years. Mandatory fine of between $4,100 and $10,100. Driver’s license revoked for five years.
Fight for your future with an experienced Florida DUI attorney
Call 800-654-4659 for a free consultation
The consequences of a DUI in Florida can be severe. With such high stakes involved, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who will fight for your future.
At Avera & Smith, our criminal defense attorneys have significant trial experience and know what it takes to defend your rights. We have been listed in Best Lawyers in America, received an AV Preeminent* rating for legal ability and been honored with many other awards. Why settle for less?
It’s in your best interest to not take on your own defense because criminal cases can be won or lost on technical procedural requirements. When you need an advocate who will investigate every avenue for your defense, build the strongest case possible on your behalf and boldly stand with you in front of prosecutors, judges and juries, turn to us.
Put our experience and reputation to work. Call 800-654-4659 or fill out our secure online form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our criminal defense attorneys.