Gainesville DUI Penalties
Have you been arrested for DUI in or near Gainesville? You may be rightfully concerned about how this criminal charge will affect you. Understanding what you are up against and how best to overcome such a situation is best done with the help of a knowledgeable attorney.
At Katz & Phillips, P.A., you will find an attorney team that is known for the quality of its DUI defense representation in the state of Florida. Our team is led by two former DUI prosecutors who themselves prosecuted countless cases as former Assistant State Attorneys. Add to this background DUI / Intoxilyzer Specialist experience, Board Certification as a DUI Defense Specialist, and membership as well as faculty experience in the National College of DUI Defense. When bringing your case to us, you will have the benefit of our firm’s combination of acclaimed knowledge, skill, and professionalism in this practice field.
What Are the Penalties for DUI in Gainesville?
On a first conviction of this offense, you will face a combination of penalties, which may include:
- Jail time of up to six months in cases of blood alcohol level up to .14 percent
- Jail time of up to nine months in cases of blood alcohol level of .15 percent or higher or driving with a minor
- Fines of $500 to $1,000 in cases of blood alcohol level up to .14 percent; increased to $1,000 to $2,000 in cases of blood alcohol level of .15 percent or higher or driving with a minor
- 50 hours of community service
- Probation, including a provisional alcohol prohibition
- Mandatory completion of DUI school
- License suspension of 180 days up to a year
- Vehicle impoundment
- Possible installation and maintenance of an ignition interlock device (IID) at your expense
You will have only 10 days to challenge the automatic suspension of your license, which is an administrative action done by the state. All of these factors demand that you act quickly to enlist our help so that we can get to work on your behalf as soon as possible.
Our attorneys are battled-tested veterans when it comes to challenging state evidence. We are also fierce negotiators who will work to mitigate the consequences of your DUI. We will conduct a thorough analysis of all factors pertinent to your case such as improper breathalyzer testing, procedure, or maintenance, whether probable cause existed for the initial traffic stop, questionable sobriety testing, as well as challenging other legal issues.
Repeat Offenses
Repeat DUI offenses will result in steeper jail time, fines, and other penalties. Florida’s Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle’s DUI website lists all possible penalties for first and repeat offenses. For example, a second conviction within five years may result in a license revocation of up to five years while a third conviction within 10 years of a second conviction will result in a 10-year license revocation. In the case of a third DUI conviction within 10 years, you will face third-degree felony charges, punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 and/or up to five years in prison.
Proven Representation for DUI Penalties in Gainesville
The state of Florida does not take driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs lightly. Just because you have been arrested, however, does not mean you will be automatically convicted. Your legal results will often depend on the capability and professionalism of your attorney. To ensure that your case is handled properly and thoroughly, call Katz & Phillips, P.A. We offer a free consultation to help you get started.