Florida has little tolerance for drunk drivers. People caught driving under the influence face steep penalties that can have harsh consequences on all aspects of their life, both professionally and personally.
If you are facing drunk or drugged driving charges, it is critical that you work with a seasoned Leifert & Leifert Attorney who can help you avoid the harshest Wellington DUI penalties. An experienced DUI Attorney can explain the charges and advise you of your rights. A dedicated Legal Team can discuss your available legal options and help you work towards a favorable resolution to your case.
What Constitutes a DUI?
According to Section 316.193, Fla. Stat. (2021), a person commits a DUI offense if they are driving or in physical control of an automobile while impaired or under the influence of any alcohol or chemical substance. State law considers a person under the influence when their normal driving faculties are impaired.
A Police Officer might perform a field sobriety test or observe a motorist’s behavior and speech to determine if their driving faculties are impaired. State law also deems a person impaired if they have a blood-alcohol level of at least 0.08. A blood or breathalyzer test can establish an individual’s blood alcohol level.
A knowledgeable legal representative can review the charges and evidence against a motorist. A Lawyer can help a Wellington driver fight DUI penalties. In some cases, they might be able to dispute the validity of a field sobriety test’s results or challenge the introduction or validity of a breathalyzer or blood-alcohol test.
Possible Penalties for Driving Drunk
Driving drunk in Wellington can bring many penalties. Those penalties increase with each subsequent offense.
First Offense
People facing DUI charges for the first time could receive up to 6 months in Jail and a fine ranging from $500 to $1000. They could then be under probation for up to a year. A driver can also lose their license for 180 days. They might have to perform 50 hours of community service, attend an educational program for drunk drivers, and enter a substance abuse evaluation and treatment program. Additional factors such as a crash or enhanced blood alcohol level can bring greater penalties.
Second Offense Within 5 Years
People facing a second DUI charge within five years could receive up to 9 months in Jail ( ten days minimum ), a larger fine ranging from $1000 to $2000, and probation for up to a year. They face losing their license for five years. They have to pay to install an ignition interlock system on their vehicles for at least one year to monitor drinking while driving. They might also have to complete a DUI course and enter a program for substance abuse evaluation and treatment. Additional penalties can apply depending on the facts and circumstances of your case
The fines and potential Jail sentences increase with more offenses. In addition to legal penalties, people also face increases in insurance premiums and potential professional and social stigmas. After reviewing the charges and related evidence, an experienced Lawyer can explain the possible legal consequences of an alleged offense.
Reach Out to an Attorney to Assist with Wellington DUI Penalties
If you are facing drunk driving charges, you must act swiftly and retain skilled Legal Assistance. Wellington DUI penalties can be harsh. A conviction could alter your life. A diligent Legal Team could help you fight back against the charges and protect your rights. They could stand up for you and advise you on the best steps to take. Consult with our Attorneys today to give yourself the best chance of a favorable outcome. Reach out now to make an appointment with one of the Leiferts.
