Florida DUI/Drunk Driving
Under Florida law, a DUI can be proven in one of two ways:
- Proof that an individual's normal faculties are impaired; and/or
- Proof that an individual's blood alcohol or breath alcohol level was .08 or above
The penalties upon conviction are the same, regardless of the manner in which the offense is proven. It is important to understand that when a DUI arrest occurs, two separate, but important legal proceedings take place. First, is the criminal case that is prosecuted by the State Attorney's Office. The second legal proceeding is the "Administrative Review Hearing" in which the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles attempt to administratively suspend your license while the DUI case is pending. A DUI arrest and conviction can have a significant impact on your life. Unless you file an objection with the Department of Motor Vehicles within ten (10) days of your arrest, the Department of Motor Vehicles can suspend your license for a period of six (6) months for a first offense. If you plead guilty or no contest to your first DUI charge, the minimum penalties can include an additional six (6) month driver's license suspension, a DUI criminal conviction and various court costs and fines.
Click on the following areas to learn more about the details of the various consequences of a DUI conviction:
Penalties
Classifications
License Revocations
Administrative Suspensions
Implied Consent Laws and Penalties
Florida's DUI / Drunk Driving Laws are complex. It is very important to retain a competent and knowledgeable attorney to represent you throughout the criminal and administrative process. If you have been accused of a DUI or you know someone who has been accused of a DUI, do not delay in contacting the Baird Law Group today for a consultation with one of our attorneys.
