Miami DUI Attorney

Mistakes happen, but when those mistakes involve driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you could be facing serious legal consequences. The Miami DUI attorneys at Criminal Defense Miami are here to help you navigate Florida’s complex legal system and mitigate the impact of a DUI charge. Under Florida law, which governs those living and driving in Miami, a person is guilty of DUI if they operate a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or any other chemical substance. Specifically, a driver’s blood-alcohol content (BAC) must be .08 or higher, or their breath-alcohol content (BrAC) must also be .08 or higher.

What Penalties Will I Face for DUI in Florida?

The penalties for DUI in Miami and throughout Southern Florida vary based on the number of prior offenses on your driving record. Florida enforces strict penalties for DUI offenses. For a first-time offense, which is classified as a misdemeanor, penalties may include up to 180 days in jail, up to a year of probation, fines up to $500, a one-year license suspension, 50 hours of community service or a fine in lieu, mandatory DUI School, and the impoundment of your vehicle for 10 days. If your BAC exceeds .15%, penalties may increase to up to 270 days in jail, fines up to $1,000, and the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device for up to six months. Should your DUI result in a traffic accident, your jail sentence could extend to 364 days.

While a first-time DUI offense may seem manageable, it carries severe consequences under Florida law. Let the experienced attorneys at Criminal Defense Miami help you navigate the legal system. With decades of experience handling DUI charges in Miami, our team can provide the support you need to address your situation effectively.

What if This Is Not My First DUI Offense?

Florida law imposes increasingly severe penalties for repeat DUI offenses. Second-time offenders may face up to 270 days in jail, a year of probation, fines up to $1,000, license suspension, vehicle impoundment, mandatory DUI School, and installation of an Ignition Interlock Device. If your BAC exceeds .15% or the offense involves a traffic accident, these penalties may increase, including extended jail time and longer use of the Ignition Interlock Device. A second DUI offense within five years of the first requires a mandatory 10-day jail sentence.

For a third DUI offense within 10 years of the second, you will be charged with a 3rd-degree felony. This charge can lead to up to five years in prison, five years of probation, fines up to $5,000, a 10-year license suspension, 90 days of vehicle impoundment, required attendance at Level 2 DUI School, and two years with an Ignition Interlock Device. Fourth DUI offenses are always classified as 3rd-degree felonies and may carry additional penalties if the third offense occurred within five years. As a fourth-time offender, you risk permanent loss of your driver’s license.

Enhanced charges may also apply if a minor was in the vehicle at the time of the offense.

Facing DUI charges in Miami is a daunting experience, and trying to handle it alone can be overwhelming. The court system is complex, and the penalties are severe. Let the skilled attorneys at Criminal Defense Miami stand by your side if you’ve been charged with DUI in Florida.