A typical DUI charge, regardless of the circumstances, can carry major consequences. However, your case can become even more complicated if you are accused of an enhanced DUI. For instance, if convicted, you might face penalties that can be almost double that of an ordinary DUI.
Therefore, if accused of this offense, you need a West Palm Beach enhanced DUI Lawyer to minimize the potential damages from your case. At Leifert & Leifert, we know that bad judgment calls happen to the best of people. We do not feel that an error in judgment should damage your reputation, so our compassionate DUI Attorneys are here to protect your rights.
What Is an Enhanced DUI?
In order to understand enhanced DUI charges, it is also crucial to comprehend the basics of a standard DUI. According to Florida Statute 316.193, you can be convicted of driving under the influence if you have a BAC of 0.08 or higher. If it is your first offense, you could face a $500 fine and six months in jail. Subsequent DUI charges usually add extra fines and an extended sentence.
Meanwhile, when it comes to an enhanced DUI, there are a number of circumstances that could turn a standard charge into this more serious variant. Common examples of factors that categorize a drunk driving offense as heightened include but are not limited to:
- Repeat arrests for DUI
- Driving under the influence while already having a suspended or revoked license
- Having children in the vehicle or being pulled over in a school zone
- Maintaining an exceptionally high BAC on the road (.15 or above)
- Driving recklessly or speeding excessively
- Causing an accident that leaves other drivers with injuries
If you have been accused of any of these offenses and need help maintaining your integrity, our knowledgeable Attorneys in West Palm Beach can determine whether your case classifies as an enhanced DUI and help you pinpoint your next steps.
Potential Penalties for an Enhanced DUI Conviction
Depending on how the arresting Law Enforcement Officer recorded and assessed your case, the penalties you face could be around two or three times more severe than they would for a standard conviction. This means that instead of paying up to $500 for your first offense, you might be required to pay around $5,000. Other possible consequences associated with an aggravated DUI conviction include but are not limited to:
- A maximum of five years of probation
- Up to five years in State Prison
- Permanent license revocation
- Having to attend DUI school for up to 21 hours
- Having your vehicle impounded for up to 90 days
- Mandatory community service for up to 50 hours
Any of these potential consequences could make life more difficult, impact your professional career, or damage your integrity. Therefore, when accused of an enhanced DUI, you need a tenacious West Palm Beach Attorney to pursue a favorable case result on your behalf.
Meet With a West Palm Beach Enhanced DUI Attorney to Learn more
Any DUI charge is serious and deserves legal consideration. The sooner you reach out to Leifert & Leifert after being accused of an enhanced DUI, the more you boost your chances of protecting your rights. Scheduling your free consultation early gives us more time to review the case records and start planning a personalized defense.
A West Palm Beach Enhanced DUI Lawyer can negotiate and advocate for you with a Prosecutor, Judge or Jury, challenge the integrity of the Prosecution’s strategy, and examine all the details of your arrest. Reach out today to learn more about your options.
