St Johns County DUI Lawyer

DUI Defense Attorney Serving St. Johns County

Florida maintains some of the strictest and harshest DUI laws in the country. A conviction for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can lead to severe penalties and far-reaching consequences. If you’ve been charged with a DUI, it is vital that you work with a St. Johns DUI lawyer in your case.

DUI Representation in St. Johns County, FL

Kevin A. Raudt, P.A., has nearly 40 years of experience helping clients fight their DUI charges in Saint Johns and the surrounding St Johns County and Jacksonville areas. Combining judgment-free representation and diligent advocacy, his team can fight to get your charges reduced or dismissed wherever possible.

Everyone deserves competent and fair representation regardless of their criminal history. Whether you are facing first-time charges or repeat DUI charges, contact a member of our team today to start building your defense.

What Are Florida’s DUI Laws?

In Florida, an individual is charged with a DUI if they operate a vehicle with a Blood Alcohol Level (BAL) of 0.08% or higher. While this is the standard BAL limit for most drivers, commercial drivers cannot exceed a BAL of 0.04%, and drivers under 21 cannot exceed 0.02%. Because the state considers impairment of one’s normal faculties by other substances in addition to alcohol, Florida DUI laws can become complex.

The most common penalties for a DUI include fines and potential jail time but may also include a suspension of your license and a possible installation of an ignition interlock device. In general, penalties increase with each subsequent conviction. For example, a first offense can lead to up to six months in jail, while a third offense can result in up to five years in prison.

What Can a DUI Lawyer Do in My Case?

A criminal defense lawyer is your greatest advocate within the legal system and can protect you from unfair prosecution and unwarranted convictions. An experienced DUI lawyer understands the complexities of Florida’s DUI laws and can properly navigate the legal system on your behalf. Some of the ways in which a Saint Johns DUI lawyer can effectively work to minimize or avoid a conviction include:

• Assessing your legal options
• Challenging the evidence presented
• Negotiating plea deals
• Seeking alternative sentencing
• Representing you in court
• Protecting your rights
• Advising you on legal implications

In addition to these benefits, your criminal defense lawyer will properly handle all administrative tasks, including managing paperwork and deadlines, to ensure proper compliance throughout the legal process. Working with an experienced DUI attorney has the potential to significantly impact the outcome of your case and help you avoid potentially severe consequences.

What Alternative Sentencing Is Available for a DUI Conviction?

Many DUI attorneys will explore alternative sentencing options, which may include pre-trial diversion programs, community service, or alcohol education courses. When a conviction is unavoidable, exploring these alternatives can help reduce potentially severe penalties down to a more manageable and less impactful result. They also help avoid jail time or heavy fines that would otherwise result from a conviction.

These options may be available in your case, especially for a first-time offense. When discussing your case, your attorney can help you understand the potential alternatives that may be available to you.

FAQs About St Johns County, FL DUI Laws

How Much Does a First-Time DUI Cost in Florida?

Florida DUI laws are among the most severe in the country, even for first-time offenders. In fact, the cost of a first-time DUI offense can range from $8,000 to $20,000, depending on the severity of the offense, the experience of your attorney, and any additional penalties or damages that may be involved. These costs do not include any potential loss of income that may result from the DUI. A DUI conviction’s financial impact can be quite severe.

Should I Get a Lawyer for a DUI in St Johns County, FL?

It is not a legal requirement to obtain a defense lawyer in Florida when facing DUI charges; however, it is highly advisable. The consequences of receiving a DUI conviction, even for first-time offenders, can be severe. Penalties can include heavy fines, license suspension, and potential jail time. An experienced DUI lawyer has a strong understanding of all applicable laws and can employ effective defense strategies, negotiation skills, and trial representation to secure a favorable outcome in your case.

How Do You Get a DUI Dismissed in Florida?

In order to get a DUI dismissed in Florida, you must effectively challenge the evidence presented against you in your case. If you can demonstrate that the initial arrest was unwarranted or unlawful, the field sobriety tests were not properly followed, or that the equipment used was defective, you may be able to have your case dismissed. If you can’t get a complete dismissal, your attorney may be able to help you receive a pre-trial diversion program instead.

How Do You Beat a DUI in St Johns County, FL?

Beating a DUI charge in Florida involves challenging the evidence and procedures occurring during the arrest. If anything was done unlawfully, from the initial traffic stop to the test administered, the case could potentially be dismissed. By effectively scrutinizing the arresting officer’s actions or the evidence presented against you, you may be able to create reasonable doubt as to your guilt and avoid a conviction. The specifics of every case will vary, so consult your lawyer for guidance.

Contact Your St Johns County DUI Lawyer Today

Those facing DUI charges in Florida can experience overwhelming anxiety as a result of the potentially severe consequences they face if convicted. However, by understanding the law, its penalties, and the importance of working with an experienced DUI defense lawyer, you can more easily navigate the challenges you face in addressing your charges.

Kevin A. Raudt, P.A., can offer effective counsel and representation in your case, fight to uphold your rights, and work tirelessly to secure a favorable outcome in your circumstance. To get started in building your defense, contact our office today. We can schedule a free consultation and discuss the details of your case.