Lake City 2nd DUI Lawyer

Lake City 2nd DUI Attorney

Florida’s criminal laws are less harsh for first-time DUI offenders. While even a first-time DUI can lead to serious penalties, the punishment for a second DUI could be considerably more serious. If you were arrested for a DUI and already have a DUI conviction on your record, you need the legal services of a Lake City 2nd DUI lawyer. For thorough representation, consult a criminal defense attorney in Lake City to help safeguard your rights and build a strong defense.

Why Choose Kevin A. Raudt, P.A.?

Kevin A. Raudt, P.A. has over 40 years of experience helping satisfied past clients receive favorable outcomes to their criminal cases. While other attorneys cover multiple areas of law, our founding lawyer focuses exclusively on criminal law.

He understands the implications of a second DUI in Florida, and he has what it takes to effectively and strategically fight those charges. Once Kevin A. Raudt is signed on to your case, you will benefit from his many years of experience and unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of his clients.

What Happens If I Get a Second DUI in Florida?

A second DUI in Florida increases the penalties that a defendant faces following their first DUI conviction. Fines go up to a minimum of $1,000 and a maximum of $2,000. If the driver had a BAC of .15% or higher, they could face a fine of $2,000 to $4,000.

Avoiding imprisonment becomes much harder following a second conviction. A judge could order the defendant to serve up to nine months in jail following a second DUI conviction. That number goes up if the defendant has a BAC of .15 or higher. In that case, they could be sentenced to up to a year in jail.

Florida’s criminal laws take into account the length of time that passes between an initial offense and a second DUI. If the driver receives a second DUI within five years of the first conviction, they face a mandatory ten-day imprisonment sentence, with at least 48 hours in jail being a condition of imprisonment. The defendant’s car would be impounded for a minimum of 30 days upon a second conviction.

Criminal Defense Strategies Following a DUI

The same defense strategies that attorneys use to defend clients for first-time DUIs apply to second-time offenders. Your lawyer can examine the evidence being used against you to see if the breathalyzer was properly calibrated before use or whether law enforcement violated their policies or procedures when detaining you. In more severe cases, such as repeat offenses, a felony DUI lawyer in Lake City can provide the specialized legal expertise needed to navigate these complex situations.

Police cannot stop, detain, or arrest someone without reasonable suspicion that a crime has occurred or is about to occur. When police fail to meet this standard, they risk committing unlawful detention. Any evidence that was obtained unlawfully could be found to be inadmissible in court in Lake City.

In cases where a field sobriety test was used, video footage of that test could show that the results of the test were inconclusive. Prosecutors are required to use solid evidence when proving guilt, and any weakness in their case or the quality of their evidence could improve the chances that the courts offer a favorable outcome to your case.

If there is not sufficient evidence to find you guilty, your attorney can file a motion to dismiss or use another legal remedy. A weak case on the part of the prosecution may prompt them to offer a lesser charge in exchange for a guilty plea. Any reduction in the crime you are facing could greatly reduce the risk that you serve serious jail time for a second DUI.

Plea bargaining affords another opportunity for your lawyer to play up the positive aspects of your life as a means of arguing that you are deserving of leniency. No matter the specifics of your case, it is an attorney’s job to seek the most favorable outcome for your case.

FAQs About Lake City, FL 2nd DUI Law

What Happens If You Get a 2nd DUI in Florida?

If you get a second DUI in Florida, you are less likely to be shown leniency by the courts. Judges may let a first-time offender off without jail time, but they are less likely to do so the second time around. Legal representation can protect you from the harshest penalties, including a $2,000 fine, up to nine months of jail time with mandatory minimums in certain circumstances, and other serious penalties.

Can You Get a Hardship License in Florida After a 2nd DUI?

Yes. You can obtain a hardship license in Florida after a second DUI, but specific conditions apply. You must wait at least one year after suspension, complete a substance abuse evaluation, and provide documentation of your need. The hardship license will come with restrictions, allowing driving only for essential purposes like work or school.

How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost in Florida?

The cost of a DUI lawyer in Florida ranges considerably. More experienced attorneys often charge accordingly for their services because they have a track record of helping clients reduce their charges or receive favorable plea bargain settlements. Criminal defense attorneys generally charge by the hour or through a flat fee.

Can a DUI Case Get Dismissed in Florida?

A DUI can get dismissed in Florida when the defendant has experienced legal counsel. A reputable criminal defense attorney can gather evidence that supports their client’s innocence or poke holes in the prosecution’s case. Any steps that weaken the state’s case against you can strengthen you and increase the chances that you receive a favorable outcome to your case.

Schedule Your Second DUI Consultation Today

If you are charged with a second DUI, your criminal defense strategy could make the difference between a favorable outcome or serious consequences that could impact your personal and professional life. The law firm of Kevin A. Raudt, P.A. can review your case before pursuing the most effective legal strategy.

Our founding attorney has represented clients for more than four decades and helped them receive favorable outcomes for their cases. We understand Florida’s criminal laws and how to defend clients from the most serious penalties under the law. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.