Florida DUI Penalties

For people convicted of a DUI in Florida, the penalties may be far more severe than you think. This is true whether the conviction is for a first-time DUI or for multiple DUI convictions. Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles data shows that there were more than 30,000 DUI convictions during 2011, the result of more than 55,722 citations for DUI. Understanding the potential penalties of a conviction is important if you are charged with DUI.

First Convictions Are Still Devastating

The penalties for a first DUI conviction are very severe and have serious financial consequences. The overall cost of a first DUI conviction can be as much as $8,000 when you combine fines, legal costs and administrative costs. A Miami DUI Lawyer can help.

A typical first DUI conviction can result in:

·         Fines – You may be expected to pay fines of a minimum of $500 for a first conviction.

·         Community Service – Sentencing includes community service requirements of at least 50 hours.

·         Probation – A DUI conviction will result in probation of up to one year.

·         Jail – A court may order a county jail term of up to six months for a first conviction.

·         License Suspension – A first DUI conviction will result in a suspension of driving privileges for at least 180 days.

·         Substance Abuse Classes – A DUI conviction will require you to take a 12 hour DUI course, and counseling, if required by an evaluation.

·         Ignition Interlock Device – A judge may order an interlock device for a first DUI conviction.

In addition to these penalties, chances are a conviction will also result in an increased auto insurance. This increased rate will likely remain on your insurance for at least one year and as much as three, which means this particular consequence will be an ongoing expense. If you lose your driver's license, you may also be facing problems with your employment, if driving was a necessary part of your job.

When you are arrested for a DUI in Miami, it is important that you contact a DUI attorney in Miami Florida for assistance. An attorney can help you mount a successful defense and avoid facing harsh penalties.

Miami DUI Attorney Jonathan Blecher has over 30 years of experience representing clients in DUI cases with positive results. Call our office or sendus an email to schedule a free, no obligation consultation.