Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Florida, and anyone charged with this crime can face significant legal consequences. Depending on the specific circumstances of the offense, different DUI criminal charges may apply. In this article, we will discuss the different types of DUI criminal charges in Florida and their potential penalties.

First Offense DUI

A first offense DUI occurs when an individual is arrested for DUI and has no prior convictions for the same offense within the last ten years. In Florida, a first offense DUI is typically charged as a misdemeanor. If convicted, the penalties can include:

  • A fine of $500 to $1,000
  • A maximum of six months in jail
  • A maximum of 12 months of probation
  • A driver's license suspension of up to 12 months
  • Mandatory attendance at DUI school

It is important to note that if an individual's blood alcohol content (BAC) is over .15, or if a minor was in the vehicle at the time of the offense, the penalties may be more severe.

Second Offense DUI

A second offense DUI occurs when an individual is arrested for DUI and has a prior conviction for the same offense within the last ten years. In Florida, a second offense DUI is typically charged as a misdemeanor, but it can also be charged as a felony under certain circumstances. If convicted, the penalties can include:

  • A fine of $1,000 to $2,000
  • A maximum of nine months in jail
  • A maximum of 12 months of probation
  • A driver's license suspension of up to five years
  • Mandatory attendance at DUI school
  • Installation of an ignition interlock device on the individual's vehicle

If an individual's BAC is over .15, or if a minor was in the vehicle at the time of the offense, the penalties may be more severe.

Third Offense DUI

A third offense DUI occurs when an individual is arrested for DUI and has two prior convictions for the same offense within the last ten years. In Florida, a third offense DUI is typically charged as a felony. If convicted, the penalties can include:

  • A fine of $2,000 to $5,000
  • A minimum of 30 days and a maximum of five years in prison
  • A maximum of 12 months of probation
  • A driver's license suspension of up to ten years
  • Mandatory attendance at DUI school
  • Installation of an ignition interlock device on the individual's vehicle

Fourth or Subsequent Offense DUI

A fourth or subsequent offense DUI occurs when an individual is arrested for DUI and has three or more prior convictions for the same offense within the last ten years. In Florida, a fourth or subsequent offense DUI is typically charged as a felony. If convicted, the penalties can include:

  • A fine of $2,000 to $5,000
  • A minimum of 30 days and a maximum of five years in prison
  • A maximum of 12 months of probation
  • A driver's license revocation of up to permanently
  • Mandatory attendance at DUI school
  • Installation of an ignition interlock device on the individual's vehicle

DUI Manslaughter

DUI manslaughter is a very serious offense that occurs when an individual causes the death of another person while driving under the influence. In Florida, DUI manslaughter is typically charged as a second-degree felony. If convicted, the penalties can include:

  • A fine of up to $10,000
  • A minimum of four years and a maximum of 15 years in prison
  • A maximum of 15 years of probation
  • A permanent revocation of the individual's driver's license
  • Mandatory attendance at DUI school
  • Installation of an ignition interlock device on the individual's vehicle

Aggravated DUI

An aggravated DUI is a charge that applies when an individual commits a DUI offense while having certain aggravating factors present. These factors can include causing property damage or bodily injury to another person, driving with a suspended or revoked license, or having a minor in the vehicle at the time of the offense. An aggravated DUI can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the specific circumstances of the offense.

If convicted of an aggravated DUI, the penalties can vary depending on the specific factors present in the offense. However, in general, penalties can include:

  • A fine of up to $5,000
  • Jail time, ranging from six months to five years
  • Community service
  • Probation
  • License suspension or revocation
  • Mandatory attendance at DUI school
  • Installation of an ignition interlock device on the individual's vehicle

In Florida, DUI criminal charges can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the offense, including the individual's BAC, prior DUI convictions, and presence of aggravating factors. If you are facing a DUI charge, it is important to understand the potential penalties and work with an experienced DUI defense attorney who can help protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome in your case. An attorney can review the specific facts of your case, build a strong defense strategy, and negotiate with the prosecution on your behalf. With the right legal representation, you can protect your future and minimize the impact of a DUI charge on your life.

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If you or a loved one is facing DUI criminal charges in Florida, don't wait to get the help you need. Contact Musca Law today for a free consultation. With our experienced DUI defense attorneys by your side, you can protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

Call us toll-free at 1-888-484-5057 to schedule your consultation. Our attorneys will provide the guidance and representation you need to navigate the legal system and minimize the consequences of your charges. Don't face DUI charges alone - call Musca Law today to get the help you need.