Miami DUI Third Offense Felony Attorney
Many people think DUIs are minor offenses. After all, they are primarily charged as misdemeanors. However, multiple DUIs can lead to a felony charge.
Under Florida state law, a person can be charged with a DUI if they are driving or being under actual physical control of a vehicle and they are under the influence of alcoholic beverages or any chemical substance (including drugs or prescription medications) to the point where a person’s normal faculties are impaired.
It is presumed that a person who has multiple DUIs may be considered a threat to public safety. Those who have a third DUI within 10 years of a second DUI conviction will be punished severely under the law. In fact, under § 316.193(2)(b)(2) of the Florida Statutes, a third DUI within 10 years of the most recent DUI offense may be charged as a third-degree felony.
This is a serious situation, as a felony charge can greatly affect you for many years. Defend yourself with help from a Miami DUI third offense felony attorney from Asilia Law Firm.
Penalties Involved
If a third DUI conviction occurs within a period of 10 years of any prior DUI conviction, then the offense can be charged as a third-degree felony. This means that the penalties are enhanced. A person will likely face most or all of the following forms of punishment:
- Up to five years in prison
- A fine of up to $5,000
- Vehicle impound
- Driver’s license revocation for 10 years
- Ignition interlock device
- Probation
- Community service
- DUI school
- Alcohol and/or drug evaluation and treatment
- Additional fees and court costs
A third DUI will also result in higher auto insurance rates.
A third-time DUI offender convicted of DUI with serious bodily injury or death will face even greater penalties than listed above. DUI manslaughter and vehicular homicide are charged as second-degree felonies, which can result in a $10,000 fine and/or 15 years in prison. A driver convicted of DUI manslaughter or vehicular homicide who flees the accident scene without stopping is guilty of a first-degree felony, which is punishable by a $10,000 fine and 30 years in prison.
An administrative driver’s license suspension is mandated in any Florida DUI case. A temporary driving permit may be available after a DUI arrest. However, a person accused of DUI has only 10 days to request a formal review hearing before the Florida Board of Administrative Reviews, so time is of the essence.
Contact Asilia Law Firm Today
If you have three DUI convictions in a short period of time, you could be facing felony charges. Defend yourself from these harsh penalties.
A qualified criminal defense attorney can help you fight the charges and protect your driving privileges. This is when a Miami DUI third offense felony attorney from Asilia Law Firm can be a great help. Schedule a consultation by calling (786) 420-3014 or filling out the online form.