One thing you should know about driving intoxicated in Florida, or in any state, is you will face harsh consequences regardless if it is your first DUI or if you have a history of DUI convictions. A DUI is very serious and can lead to heavy fines, license suspension, jail, probation and higher insurance.
If you are not aware of what would be awaiting during a DUI conviction, here is what you can expect.
Fines for DUI in Florida
Each time you are convicted of a DUI in Florida, you will have to pay a mandatory fine. The fine will range from $500 to $5,000 and possibly more and will increase with every subsequent DUI conviction. Besides your DUI history, fines will also be based on your blood alcohol content (BAC) level at the time of arrest and if you had a minor with you in the vehicle.
Refusing a chemical test
If an officer suspects that you may be impaired due to alcohol or drugs, you will be asked to perform a series of tests to determine the probability of being intoxicated. One of these tests will be a chemical test. This will usually either be a blood or urine test and there are penalties for refusing to take this test. The first time you refuse the test, you will be faced with a one-year suspension of your license. For subsequent second and third time refusals, you will face a license suspension for 18-months and you will be charged with a misdemeanor.
Jail time for DUI
A DUI is a criminal offense and you can serve time in jail for a conviction. While there is no minimum jail sentence for a first DUI offense, a second DUI offense has a minimum of 10 days in jail and a third DUI offense has a minimum of 30 days in jail.
A DUI in Florida can lead to expensive fines and even jail, so it is an offense you need to take seriously. A DUI conviction in Florida will stay on your record for 75 years, making it an offense that will follow you around for the rest of your life if convicted.
If you have been arrested for a DUI, since you are dealing with a criminal offense, you should contact an attorney right away. A DUI can have long-lasting ramifications that is best addressed sooner rather than later.
