What are the Penalties for a DUI in Florida
If you have been arrested for DUI in Florida, one of the most pressing concerns you have is what kind of penalties you are facing. The penalties for a DUI in Florida depend on several factors, including your blood alcohol content (BAC) and whether you have any previous DUI convictions. In this post, we will outline the potential penalties you may be facing if convicted of DUI in Florida.
DUI Penalties in Florida
If you are convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) in Florida, you may be subject to the following penalties:
First Offense
- A fine of up to $1,000
- Up to 50 hours of community service
- Up to one year of probation
- License suspension for up to 180 days
- mandatory completion of an approved DUI course
- installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle (if your BAC was .15% or higher)
- impoundment of your vehicle (if your BAC was .15% or higher)
Second Offense
- A fine of up to $2,000
- Up to 50 hours of community service
- Up to nine months in jail
- Up to two years of probation
- License suspension for up to 180 days
- mandatory completion of an approved DUI course
- installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle (if your BAC was .15% or higher)
- impoundment of your vehicle (if your BAC was .15% or higher)
-Possibility of having your vehicle seized and sold by the state
Third Offense
- A fine of up to $5,000
- Up to one year in jail
- License suspension for up to 10 years
- permanent revocation of your driver's license
Felony DUI
If you are convicted of a fourth DUI within 10 years, or if you are convicted of a third DUI with serious bodily injury, you will be charged with a felony. The penalties for a felony DUI include:
- A fine of up to$5,000
- Up to five years in prison
- License revocation for at least five years
In addition to the above penalties, if you are convicted of DUI with a minor under 18 years old in the car, you will be required to serve a minimum sentence of 48 consecutive hours in jail.
If you have been arrested for DUI in Florida, it is critical to understand the potential penalties you are facing. These penalties can be severe, so it is important to contact an experienced Jacksonville DUI Attorney and who can help you fight the charges and protect your rights.
Michael is a dedicated Jacksonville Criminal Defense Attorney and Florida TCPA Attorney who approaches every case with the utmost skill and effort. Michael is exceptionally skilled in the areas of criminal and traffic matters.
