Gainesville, Ocala and Bushnell DUI Defense Attorney

DUI Penalties in Florida

In Florida, the penalties for driving under the influence are harsh. Fines, a jail or prison sentence, license suspension and alcohol abuse classes are all likely to be in the future of a person convicted of DUI, even for a first offense.

Gainesville DUI lawyer Robert G. Whittel understands the effect these penalties can have upon a person. Spending any time in jail can leave a person with a changed outlook on life and a conviction on your criminal record may negatively affect your ability to get employment or obtain certain loans. At the Law Offices of Robert G. Whittel, we deal with driving under the influence defense throughout Gainesville, Ocala and Bushnell, Florida. If you are looking to work with an experienced attorney who will give you his all, you have come to the right place.

Penalties for Driving Under the Influence

The penalties you face for a DUI conviction will mostly depend upon whether you have prior convictions for drunk driving on your record and what your blood alcohol concentration was at the time of your arrest. Specific penalties for DUI in Florida are as follows:

First Offense:     
            0 to 6 months in county jail
            $250 to $500 fine
            180 day to 1 year driver's license suspension

Second Offense (within 5 years):
            10 days to 9 months in jail
            $500 to $1000 fine
            5 year driver's license suspension
            Ignition Interlock Device (at owner's expense) for 1 year

Third Offense (within 10 years):
            30 days to 5 years in prison
            $1000 to $2500 fine
            10 year driver's license suspension
            Ignition Interlock Device

Fourth Offense:
            Up to 5 years in prison
            Fine of up to $5000 
            Permanent driver's license suspension
            
Multiple DUI offenders will also face possible vehicle impoundment, Multiple Offender School, Alcohol Evaluation & Treatment and Victim Impact Panel.

If you are facing any of the penalties listed above, you will need a lawyer on your side who will fight to protect your rights both in and out of the courtroom. This is your future and your freedom that we're talking about, and it is important that you take every step you can toward maintaining your freedom.

Contact Gainesville, Florida driving under the influence attorney Robert Whittel today!