Is a DUI a Felony in Florida?

Is a DUI a Felony in Florida?

Suppose you have recently been arrested and charged with a DUI in south Florida. In that case, you probably already know that the first thing you need to do is contact a criminal defense attorney to begin working on your case immediately. The many details involved must be gathered and evaluated by a knowledgeable and skilled defense team to build the best argument in your favor. The experienced professionals at Stroleny Law, P.A suggest finding an experienced attorney to help you. They provide your best chance at a fair trial and the best possible results in your favor. 

One of the most worrying questions on your mind may be whether or not a DUI in Florida is a felony charge. The answer is that sometimes a DUI is a life-altering felony charge in Florida, but it is often a misdemeanor with lower penalties. Be sure to contact a seasoned DUI attorney today so they can look at the facts of your situation and offer you the best advice for the best possible outcome. 

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Driving Under the Influence

A DUI charge in the state of Florida means you are being accused of operating a motor vehicle at a time when the use of mind-altering substances such as alcoholic beverages or drugs significantly impaired your ability to do so properly. In many instances, this criminal charge is limited to a misdemeanor, and penalties for a conviction are less severe than felony DUI convictions. Even if this is your situation, it is imperative for your future to hire a trustworthy lawyer to oversee your case and secure a lesser punishment. 

 

When is DUI a Felony in Florida?

There are some cases in which a DUI charge will result in a felony conviction in the state of Florida. These situations are determined considering several factors. The number of prior convictions and the amount of time involved play a role, as well as others who may have been affected by the impaired driver. A third DUI conviction within a ten-year period or a fourth DUI consecutively will result in a felony charge. If serious bodily harm resulting in injury or death were inflicted on victims involved in a DUI vehicular accident, the driver at fault would be charged with a felony DUI. 

 

DUI Marijuana Considerations

Alcohol is not the only mind-altering substance that can lead to a DUI. Many Floridians are unaware that it is possible to be charged and convicted of DUI while driving under the influence of marijuana. Although the medicinal use of marijuana is legal and can be obtained through a simple process in Florida, it is still illegal to operate a motor vehicle while impaired by this drug. 

If you are in a situation where you’re being charged with DUI after marijuana use, contact an attorney as soon as possible to evaluate the details of your defense case. While the field sobriety testing done detects impairment, facts regarding those results can have a significant impact on your ultimate conviction or, with a strong defense, possible lessening of penalties. 

 

Choose Wise Counsel

If you have found yourself or a loved one facing DUI charges, do not attempt to navigate legal proceedings and jargon alone. You need a highly skilled and strong legal team on your side to help you every step of the way. A DUI charge can shake the foundation of your daily life and future, but with the right attorney by your side, your chances of lessening punishment will be  significantly increased.