What is the Penalty for DUI?

In the state of Florida, the first conviction for DUI carries with it the below penalties. Note that although this list and those for additional offenses are thorough, you should contact Fulmer Law, P.A. for a comprehensive explanation and additional parameters (including those for DUI Manslaughter and Chemical/Physical Test Provisions).

Penalties include:

• Fines – You must pay the State of Florida between $500 and $1000 in fines. If your blood alcohol level falls within the enhanced penalty range, the minimum fine is between $1000 and $2000.
• Community service – For a first conviction of DUI, you must perform community service totaling 50 hours. Alternately, the fine may be raised up to $500 ($10 per hour) to account for this requirement.
• Probation – Probation can last a maximum of twelve months, but that also includes any time that is spent in jail.
• Imprisonment – If convicted, you may be sentenced to a total of six months for a standard offense and up to twelve months with the enhanced penalty. However, the court may decide that you can spend part or all that time in an addiction rehabilitation center.
• Impoundment – The consequences of a first DUI will also typically include impoundment of your vehicle for 10 days, provided that it is not the sole form of transportation for your family.
• License revocation – Your driver’s license will also be revoked after a first DUI conviction. The period of time during which you must forgo driving privileges will be between six and twelve months.
• Education – Another punishment for a first DUI is an informational course. You can potentially have your driver license reinstated during the revocation due to hardship, but that requires completion of the training program. After the revocation span has elapsed, you still must enroll in a DUI class in order to have your license reinstated.

For more information, call the best criminal defense attorney in Polk County, Art Fulmer, ASAP. Even if you do not hire Mr. Fulmer to represent you, the legal advice he will provide during your consultation will give you an idea of what you are up against and help you plan for the future.